Circle the Island of St. John | Lunch stop at Lime Out (Taco Boat)

Imagine spending a full day sailing around the stunning island of St. John, snorkeling at vibrant reefs, and indulging in some of the Caribbean’s best tacos on a floating bar. For just $250 per person, this approximately 8-hour tour offers an intimate group experience — limited to 12 guests — that combines adventure, relaxation, and a taste of local flavor. Led by friendly, knowledgeable crew members, you’ll get a chance to see the island from the water, with stops that are both scenic and fun.

What we really love about this tour: first, the small group size creates a relaxed atmosphere where everyone feels welcomed and well-cared for. Second, the floating taco bar at Lime Out is truly a highlight — sitting on floats, munching on gourmet tacos, with tropical drinks flowing freely, makes for a uniquely memorable meal.

One thing to keep in mind: the lunch at Lime Out is not included in the ticket price, so you’ll need to bring some cash or a credit card if you want to indulge in the tacos on the floating platform. This tour is ideal for those who enjoy a laid-back vibe, love snorkeling, and are eager to explore the waters around St. John in a comfortable, intimate setting.

If you’re the kind of traveler who appreciates good value combined with authentic island experiences — not just crowded boat rides or cookie-cutter excursions — this tour is perfect. It suits families, couples, and solo adventurers alike, especially those who want to avoid large groups and enjoy personalized service.

Key Points

• Small-group experience limited to 12 guests for intimacy and personalized attention
• Multiple snorkeling stops with provided equipment to see sea turtles, stingrays, and reefs
• Unique lunch experience on the floating taco bar Lime Out, with gourmet tacos and tropical drinks
• Flexible options for departure points from St. Thomas or St. John
• Includes drinks, snacks, and snorkeling gear for a hassle-free day on the water
• Total duration approximately 8 hours, making it a full-day adventure with plenty of variety

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

The Itinerary and What Makes Each Stop Special

This tour begins at 9:00 am with a scenic cruise along the North Shore Beaches, which are renowned for their breathtaking cliffs, crystal-clear waters, and luxurious villas. As you sail, your crew — including friendly guides like Tara, Heather, or Lacey (based on reviews) — will point out interesting sights and share tidbits about the islands’ history and ecology.

The first snorkeling stop is at Hansen Bay Beach, a calm, pristine spot perfect for taking in the underwater world. Here, you’ll snorkel in clear waters that attract sea turtles, stingrays, and an abundance of tropical fish. The crew will select the most suitable area for calm, safe snorkeling, ensuring everyone gets a good look without feeling overwhelmed.

Next, you’ll head to Time-Out, a floating taco and craft cocktail bar that sits right in Hansen Bay. This is where the tour really shines. You can relax on the boat or venture onto the floats for a laid-back lunch experience. The reviews rave about Lime Out, describing it as “a seriously cool experience,” with some saying “the tacos were phenomenal.” It’s a rare chance to eat gourmet tacos while floating on the water, with drinks flowing and a fun, festive vibe.

Snorkeling at Shipwrecks and Reef

After lunch, the boat moves on to Pizza Pi VI — a wreck site that offers the chance to snorkel around a sunken boat, adding a little adventure to your day. Here, you’ll also have the chance to swim with sea turtles and stingrays, two of the biggest highlights for snorkelers. The reefs around the wreck are teeming with colorful fish and coral, making it a favorite among reviewers who call it “the best snorkeling I’ve ever done.”

Pizza Pi is not just about the underwater scenery; it’s a treat to have pizza delivered to the boat after snorkeling. This local pizza joint is a hit among travelers, adding tasty, familiar comfort to the day’s activities.

Exploring Lovango and Its Beach Club

The final stop takes you to Lovango Resort + Beach Club, a scenic spot ideal for unwinding. Guests can choose to visit the beach club for drinks and shopping or simply relax off the back of the boat, snorkel in the surrounding reefs, or soak in the sun. Reviewers describe the reef here as “beautiful coral,” perfect for a peaceful swim or some last-minute underwater exploration.

What You’ll Experience

• Snorkeling equipment is provided, and the crew is attentive to making sure everyone is comfortable and safe in the water.
• Alcoholic beverages — including beer, soda, rum, and mixers — are available throughout the day, which enhances the relaxed Caribbean vibe.
• The restroom facilities onboard mean you’re comfortable throughout the trip, an often overlooked detail but one that adds to the overall enjoyment.

Authentic and Authentic: Why This Tour Works

Many travelers mention the friendly crew and how they keep the mood light and fun. “The crew was great, I would have liked more info on what we were looking at,” one reviewer notes, but overall, the crew’s attentiveness and knowledge shine through. The small group size allows for more personalized attention, and many reviewers highlight how the crew made a point to accommodate everyone’s needs, from snorkel gear to drink refills.

While some comment on the price feeling a bit high, they also acknowledge the value of the experience — including multiple snorkeling stops, gourmet tacos, and the chance to see sea turtles. “This was our second excursion with the pirates,” one review states, emphasizing their repeat enthusiasm for the fun, well-organized trip.

Practical Details

The price of $250 covers the majority of the experience — snorkeling gear, drinks, snacks, and the boat ride itself. The lunch at Lime Out is not included, but most guests agree it’s well worth a few extra dollars for the fun and flavor. The tour lasts roughly 8 hours, making it a full day of adventure, sightseeing, and relaxation.

The group size of 12 ensures that it doesn’t feel crowded, and the mobile tickets make it easy to join without fuss. The start time at 9:00 am and the flexible departure options from either St. Thomas or St. John make planning straightforward.

The Value for Travelers

This tour offers a balanced mix of snorkeling, sightseeing, and delicious food in a setting that’s both relaxed and memorable. While some might find the cost a bit steep, many reviews highlight the quality of the crew, the variety of stops, and the authentic island experience as well worth it.

You’ll love the scenic waterway, the chance to swim with sea turtles, and the unique floating taco bar that turns lunch into an adventure. It’s a great choice for travelers who appreciate smaller groups, personalized service, and a genuine taste of Caribbean life.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for a tour with free lunch included or prefer a more structured, informational experience, this might feel a bit less suited. But for those wanting to combine fun, beautiful scenery, and excellent snorkeling, it hits the mark.

FAQ

What should I bring with me on the tour?
Bring sunscreen, swimwear, sunglasses, insect repellant, a towel, and some cash or credit card for additional purchases, especially at Lime Out.

Can I leave my belongings on the boat while snorkeling?
Yes, some crew members stay on board, so your personal items should be safe while you enjoy the water.

Are there restrooms on the boat?
Yes, the boat is equipped with restrooms and private changing areas for your convenience.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered another date or a full refund.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Yes, you’re welcome to bring your own snacks or drinks. The boat supplies bottled water, soda, and alcohol, but bringing personal favorites is fine.

Is this suitable for children?
Absolutely! This is a family-friendly tour, especially for kids who enjoy snorkeling and being on the water.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts about 8 hours, giving plenty of time for multiple stops, snorkeling, and relaxing.

What is included in the price?
Snorkeling equipment, drinks, snacks like pizza, and the boat ride itself are included. The lunch at Lime Out is extra.

How many people typically join?
Most trips have a maximum of 12 guests, creating a cozy, less crowded atmosphere.

This small-group sailing tour around St. John offers a well-rounded day of sightseeing, snorkeling, and tropical fun. You’ll get the chance to explore some of the island’s most beautiful reefs, enjoy a unique floating taco bar experience, and relax with drinks in hand. The crew’s attentiveness, combined with the intimate group size, ensures a personalized and enjoyable outing for all ages.

It’s especially suited for travelers eager to experience the authentic water-based side of St. John without the hassle of large crowds. Whether you’re a snorkeling fanatic, a foodie looking for a fun meal, or simply someone wanting to see the islands from a different perspective, this tour ticks all those boxes.

If you’re after a laid-back, memorable Caribbean adventure with plenty of opportunities for fun and photos, this tour might just become one of your trip’s highlights. It’s a great value for the quality and variety of experiences packed into one day on the water.