Full Day Private Charter on Luxury Catamaran Sailing.

A Day on the Water in St. Thomas: Luxury Catamaran Sailing Experience

Imagine spending a full day drifting across the calm waters of the US Virgin Islands aboard a luxury sailing catamaran. For $250 per person, you’ll enjoy about 7.5 hours of personalized fun, exploring some of the most beautiful beaches and reefs around St. Thomas, with your own private crew—whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a day of laid-back island life.

What makes this experience particularly appealing are two things: first, the customizable itinerary—you get to choose your snorkeling spots like Maho on St. John, Lovango Cay, or Christmas Cove—truly a flexible day tailored to your interests. Second, the all-inclusive nature—delicious lunch, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and drinks including rum punch and beers—means you can relax without worrying about extra costs or arrangements.

A slight consideration is that this is a private charter, so the overall cost is higher than group tours, but the exclusivity and flexibility often outweigh that for travelers seeking a personalized adventure. This tour suits those who love stunning scenery, authentic island experiences, and value direct access to beautiful reefs, beaches, and quiet coves with a small, friendly crew.

Key Points

• Private and customizable: Choose your snorkeling spots and activities.
• All-inclusive: Lunch, drinks, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and hammock swings included.
• Flexible itinerary: 2-3 stops, with options to tailor your route.
• Relaxing and adventurous: Opportunities to sunbathe, snorkel, paddleboard, and relax in hammock chairs.
• Great reviews for hosts: Friendly, knowledgeable crew make the day memorable.
• Ideal for special occasions or relaxing escapes: Small groups, personalized experience.

Setting Sail: What to Expect from Your Private Catamaran Day

This tour departs from Beach Charters VIDock B slip 19 in Red Hook, with an 8:30 a.m. start—early enough to make the most of the day’s light and avoid afternoon crowds. When we boarded the Second Chance, the first thing that struck us was how spotlessly clean and well-equipped the vessel was. The crew immediately made us feel welcome, offering a variety of snacks and beverages to start the day—fresh fruit, pastries, and a hearty lunch of turkey, cheese, and veggie wraps.

Snorkeling and Beach Stops

The core of this experience is snorkeling in some of the Virgin Islands’ most scenic spots. The itinerary typically includes 2-3 stops, such as Maho Bay on St. John, Lovango Cay, or Christmas Cove, but since this is a private charter, you can suggest your preferred locations.

Each snorkeling stop is designed to be accessible and enjoyable, with snorkel gear provided. Many reviews highlight how easy it was to explore the reefs—the calm waters make for relaxed swimming, and the reefs are vibrant with marine life, often including sea turtles, which are a real treat for wildlife lovers. One guest shared, “We saw everything we hoped for—and then some,” emphasizing how the reefs exceeded expectations.

Relaxing in Style

What sets this tour apart is the luxury aspect—you can lounge on the bean bags on the trampolines, catch some sun, or sit in the original Beach Charters VI hammock chairs hanging off the back. It’s an unhurried day with plenty of time to relax and take in the views. The boat’s stability and smooth sailing make it possible to enjoy a peaceful cruise between the stops.

Water Activities and Sunbathing

You’ll love the paddleboards and hammock swings, which add an active element for those wanting to paddle over reefs or simply relax swinging in the ocean breeze. One guest mentioned how kids and adults alike enjoyed the paddleboards—a great way to stay engaged without strenuous effort.

Food and Drinks

The included lunch is more than just a snack. It features freshly sliced turkey, cheese, veggie wraps, and chips, with soda and water available throughout the day. Rum punch and light beers (a 12-pack) are also part of the package, making for a spirited yet relaxed atmosphere. Several reviews praise the quality of the food and drinks, noting that the drinks helped keep the mood lively without feeling overindulgent.

The Experience in Detail: Why It Works

One of the most praised aspects, according to reviews, is the friendly, knowledgeable crew. Ivy and her team are celebrated for their warmth and professionalism, making guests feel like friends rather than strangers. “They accommodated every request and made the day incredible,” said one reviewer. The crew’s attentiveness transforms a simple boat trip into a personalized experience.

The timing is also thoughtfully planned. With a start at 8:30 a.m., you get nearly eight hours on the water—ample time to explore, snorkel, relax, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The calm waters and smooth sailing make it accessible for most travelers, from seasoned snorkelers to complete novices.

Flexibility and Customization

Since this is a private tour, you’re free to tailor the stops and activities. Whether you want more snorkeling, extra time on the trampoline, or a quiet sunbathing session, the crew is happy to oblige. This flexibility makes it ideal for celebrations, family gatherings, or just a peaceful escape.

Value for Money

At $250 per person, the cost might seem steep compared to group snorkeling trips, but the personalized service, private itinerary, and all-inclusive setup make it a value-packed option for those seeking a luxurious, stress-free day. Reviewers consistently highlight how the cost is justified by the quality of experience and exclusivity.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This sailing adventure is perfect for couples, families, or friends looking for a bespoke day on the water. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate comfortable, well-equipped boats and want to avoid large crowds. If you’re celebrating a special event or simply desire a relaxing yet active day in the Virgin Islands, this tour offers a tailored, memorable experience.

Travelers who enjoyed reviews describing “best day of the trip” or “like spending the day with friends” will find this tour hits the mark. It’s a fantastic way to combine adventure, relaxation, and luxury into one seamless day.

FAQs

What is included in the price?
You get a full day of sailing, snorkeling gear, paddleboards, hammock swings, lunch, sodas, water, and a choice of rum punch or light beer.

How long is the tour?
Approximately 7.5 hours, starting at 8:30 a.m. and ending back at the meeting point.

Are drinks and food provided?
Yes, a hearty lunch and beverages—including soda, water, rum punch, and beer—are included.

Can I choose my snorkeling spots?
Yes, since this is a private charter, you can suggest or choose your preferred locations such as Maho, Lovango Cay, or Christmas Cove.

Is the tour suitable for children or non-swimmers?
Most travelers can participate, and snorkeling gear is available. Always check the swimmer’s comfort level before snorkeling.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Where do I meet the boat?
At Beach Charters VIDock B slip 19 in Red Hook, St. Thomas.

Are gratuities included?
No, gratuities are not included but are appreciated if you feel the crew provided excellent service.

How far in advance should I book?
Most travelers book about 98 days ahead on average, so it’s wise to reserve early, especially in peak season.

Final Thoughts

A private day on a luxury catamaran in St. Thomas offers an unbeatable blend of scenic beauty, personalized service, and relaxed fun. From snorkeling in vibrant reefs to lounging on bean bags or paddling around in the calm waters, this experience caters to those wanting both adventure and comfort. The all-inclusive setup simplifies planning, letting you focus on enjoying your day without surprise costs or hassles.

While the price might seem high, the premium, intimate nature of the tour and the positive reviews from happy guests make it a worthwhile investment—particularly if you’re celebrating, seeking tranquility, or simply want to indulge in authentic island life. Whether for a special occasion or just a well-deserved escape, this sailing trip could be the highlight of your Virgin Islands visit.

In summary, this tour is best suited for travelers who value customization, comfort, and a small-group vibe. If you’re after a luxury, stress-free day on the water with plenty of opportunities for snorkeling, sunbathing, and enjoying great food and drinks, you’ll find this experience hard to beat. It promises a balanced mix of relaxation, adventure, and authentic scenery, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to the US Virgin Islands.