St John offers some of the Caribbean’s best boat tours and cruises, thanks to its clear waters, protected national parks, and a laid-back vibe that invites you to relax and explore from the water. Whether you’re seeking a romantic sunset sail, a lively snorkeling adventure, or a private day on the sea, St John has options that cater to different interests and budgets. For example, the St. John Days End Sunset Sail offers an elegant way to toast the sunset with champagne and hors d’oeuvres, making it perfect for a romantic evening. Meanwhile, the Jost Van Dyke & Soggy Dollar Snorkel Sail combines snorkeling, island hopping, and a full-day experience that’s great for families or groups wanting a full Caribbean day.
If you’re after a more personalized experience, a Private Day Charter Classic Sailboat offers a tailored day on a 40-foot sailboat, perfect for celebrating special occasions or simply escaping with friends. For those who want to learn the ropes, the Learn to Sail – Sailing Lessons All Inclusive provides a full hands-on experience. And for travelers craving a mix of sailing, dining, and stunning scenery, the Sail with Bar and Hors d’Oeuvres to Lovango Dinner delivers an evening cruise to a private island with a delicious seafood dinner.
1. St. John Days End Sunset Sail Open Bar & Hors D’oeuvres
At number 1 on our list is the St. John Days End Sunset Sail, a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring. This 1-hour sunset cruise departs from the Westin on St. John aboard a beautiful 55-foot catamaran. The experience centers on enjoying the Caribbean sunset while sipping champagne and enjoying hors d’oeuvres served on board. The boat features a spacious deck that allows everyone a good view of the sky’s changing colors.
The crew is known for their friendly, efficient service, with many guests praising the ample free drinks and spectacular vessel. Some reviews mention the cruise being a bit short of the advertised time, but the overall experience of sailing into the sunset makes up for it. It’s ideal for couples or small groups looking for a romantic, relaxed evening. Bottom line: It’s a great value for about $109 per person, especially with free parking at the Westin. Just don’t expect a detailed commentary—this is more about the vibe than sightseeing.
2. Jost Van Dyke & Soggy Dollar Snorkel Sail with Breakfast
For around $299, the Jost Van Dyke & Soggy Dollar Snorkel Sail offers a full 8-hour day packed with adventure and island charm. This tour starts from the Westin and takes you on a trip to the nearby British Virgin Islands, with stops for snorkeling at coral reefs and time spent relaxing on White Bay at Jost Van Dyke, home to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar.
What makes this trip stand out is its flexibility—you can choose how to spend your time in Jost Van Dyke, whether lounging on the beach or swimming in the clear waters. The journey back features a happy hour with an open bar, making it a lively, social outing. The crew is praised for their professionalism and friendly attitude, with reviews highlighting the great snorkeling spots and attentive service. The tour also includes games and hammocks on board, adding a laid-back island vibe.
Bottom line: For about $299, this tour balances snorkeling, island time, and open bar fun—perfect for active travelers who want a comprehensive day trip with plenty of flexibility.
3. PiZZA Pi Snorkel Sail with Beach Stop, Lunch & Open Bar
If you’re craving a full-day adventure with good food, the PiZZA Pi Snorkel Sail is a standout at about $149. The cruise departs mid-morning aboard a luxurious catamaran, giving you time to relax and enjoy freshly-made pizzas from the floating Pizza Pi food boat. During the day, you’ll snorkel at scenic beaches and offshore cays, with plenty of opportunities to spot turtles, rays, and colorful fish.
What makes this tour different is the combination of great food, snorkeling, and a comfortable vessel. The crew’s attentiveness is often noted, and the free snacks and open bar keep spirits high. The included lunch is a real highlight, with reviews praising the delicious pizzas and salads. It’s an ideal choice for families, couples, or groups who want a full day of leisure, water fun, and good eats.
Bottom line: At around five hours, this tour offers excellent value, especially for those who want a relaxed yet activity-filled day with a focus on food and nature.
4. Private Day Charter Classic Sailboat
Looking for a tailor-made experience? The Private Day Charter offers an intimate four to five-hour sail on a 40-foot classic sailboat, perfect for up to six people. You’ll start from Cruz Bay, taking a tender to your vessel, then head out onto the water with stops for snorkeling in the Virgin Islands’ clear waters. The boat is equipped with snorkeling gear, and you can enjoy soft drinks and alcoholic beverages, plus lunch included in the price.
What sets this tour apart is its personalized approach—you can customize your route, choose how long to snorkel, and enjoy a private crew dedicated to your party. Many reviews emphasize Captain Mike’s attentiveness and his ability to teach sailing—”He even gave my husband a sailing lesson,” one traveler noted. The experience is perfect for celebrating special occasions or travelers who prefer an exclusive, flexible day on the water.
Bottom line: For $1,395 per group, it’s a premium option suited to those wanting privacy, personalized service, and the chance to learn sailing in a relaxed setting.
5. Group Sunset Sail St. John
The Group Sunset Sail ranks high at number 5 for its romantic, small-group vibe. This 2.5-hour sail departs from Cruz Bay at 4:15 pm, sailing through Virgin Islands National Park cays with a full bar, light fare, and soothing music. The friendly crew and intimate atmosphere make it well-suited for couples looking to end their day with a peaceful, picturesque sunset.
Travelers rave about the personalized service and scenic views. One reviewer called it “very romantic” and appreciated that the captain let guests decide on activities, making it feel special and tailored. The cost is $400 per person, which reflects the quality of the experience and the included drinks and light snacks.
Bottom line: Best for couples seeking a quiet, romantic sunset and a more personalized experience, though it’s on the pricier side.
6. Sail with Bar and Hors d’Oeuvres to Lovango Dinner
At number 6, the Sail with Bar and Hors d’Oeuvres to Lovango Dinner is a delightful evening cruise for about $119. The boat departs for Lovango Cay, where you’ll visit the private Lovango Resort and Beach Club. Along the way, appetizers like seafood and cocktails keep the mood lively, and on the return trip, cordials and drinks are served.
This tour is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, scenic evening with good food. The reviews mention the beautiful location and attentive crew, with many noting the delicious food and the peaceful sail. It’s perfect for celebrating a special night or for travelers wanting a more refined, yet laid-back, experience.
Bottom line: This cruise offers a balance of scenic sailing, good food, and a luxurious feel—best suited for couples or small groups seeking a memorable dinner cruise.
7. Learn to Sail – Sailing Lessons All Inclusive
For those who want to get hands-on, the Learn to Sail is a unique experience. This private lesson lasts about five hours and is perfect for up to six people. You’ll board a boat with a skipper who will teach you the basics of sailing, all in a relaxed, friendly environment. The trip includes snorkeling gear, snacks, drinks, and the opportunity to actually sail the boat—not just watch.
This experience is highly rated by travelers who want an educational twist to their trip. One reviewer said, “Captain Mike tailored a great experience for us,” highlighting its personalized nature. It suits active travelers, couples, or families who want to learn a skill and enjoy the water at the same time.
Bottom line: For $1,395, it’s an excellent pick for anyone looking to learn sailing, with the bonus of snorkeling and snacks. It’s more than just a cruise—it’s a skill-building adventure.
8. All Inclusive Day Sail (Up to 4 Passengers)
Finally, the All Inclusive Day Sail offers an intimate, up to 4 passengers experience for about $1,347. This tour provides a peaceful, small-group day on the protected Virgin Islands National Park waters, with options for snorkeling at various skill levels and the chance to swim with sea turtles. The focus here is on a quiet, authentic day at sea, away from large crowds.
Guests love the personalized attention and the chance to tailor the day, making it perfect for couples or small families wanting privacy and a relaxed pace.
Bottom line: An excellent choice if you want a private, all-inclusive day sail with plenty of snorkeling options and a focus on tranquility.
How to Choose the Best Boat Tour in St John
When selecting your ideal boat experience, consider your budget, the type of experience you want, and how much time you have. For a romantic sunset, the Sunset Sail is hard to beat, but if you’re looking for a full day of adventure, the Jost Van Dyke snorkel trip offers a mix of snorkeling and island exploration. Families or groups wanting a personalized experience might prefer the Private Sailboat, while those eager to learn to sail should look at the Sailing Lessons.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the sunset sail or private charters. Also, consider the weather—Caribbean conditions can change quickly, so flexible plans often work best.
St John offers a variety of boat tours that suit different interests and budgets, from quick sunset sails to full-day adventures and private charters. Whether you’re after romance, fun snorkeling, or a chance to learn sailing, there’s something to suit your style. Rest assured, booking ahead and knowing what you want will help you make the most of your time on the water. Dive in and enjoy your perfect day in the Virgin Islands.