East Coast Private Island Day Trip Kayak & Picnic Experience

A Private Island Day Trip in St. Lucia: What to Expect

This East Coast Private Island Day Trip offers a serene escape into nature, centered around exploring a secluded island just off Marigot Bay. For $850 per group — which typically means up to two travelers — you’ll spend about 6 hours immersed in tranquility. The experience begins with pickup from your accommodation, making it easy to start your adventure without the hassle of planning transportation. Once on site, you have options to kayak across calm waters or enjoy a boat ride, both leading you to a private slice of paradise. The day includes plenty of opportunities to walk scenic trails, observe exotic wildlife, snorkel among mangroves, and unwind on your own private beach.

What we love most? First, the chance to fish, hike, or simply lounge with your toes in the sand — all in a setting so quiet it feels like your own island. Second, the flexibility of choosing between kayaking or a boat ride, which means you can tailor the experience to your energy level or preference. A possible drawback is that the tour is quite focused on relaxation and gentle exploration, so if you’re looking for adrenaline or action-packed activities, this may not be your first choice.

This trip is best suited for couples, honeymooners, or nature lovers wanting a peaceful day away from crowds. It’s ideal if you value intimate, authentic experiences rather than large-group excursions. Keep in mind, it’s a private tour, so your experience remains personalized and unrushed.

Key Points

• Secluded setting: You’ll enjoy a private island with exclusive access and minimal crowds.
• Flexible transportation: Choose between kayaking or a boat ride to reach the island, offering a personalized start.
• Wildlife encounters: Spot harmless whiptail lizards and explore the rich marine environment through snorkeling.
• Customizable meal options: A packed picnic or delivery service ensures a tailored dining experience.
• Relaxation focus: Ideal for unwinding on the beach, walking trails, or lounging in hammocks amid nature.
• Private tour exclusivity: Your group will be the sole participants, ensuring a quiet, intimate day.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Transportation

The adventure kicks off around 9:00 am with pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle in Marigot Bay. From there, the journey to the private island begins with a scenic boat ride or kayaking across Praslin Bay. If you choose the boat, you’ll enjoy a comfortable, often leisurely ride—possibly about 5 minutes—through calm waters, setting a relaxed tone for the day. Alternatively, kayaking offers a more active approach, allowing you to paddle through the gentle sea, feeling connected with your surroundings.

The mix of options caters to different energy levels and preferences. One reviewer notes, “We loved the way the kayaking brought us closer to the environment,” suggesting that the activity can be both invigorating and peaceful. The transition from mainland to island feels seamless, with the short boat or kayak crossing acting as a gateway to your private escape.

The Island Welcome and Setup

Once arriving, you’ll step onto a pristine private beach where your hosts will help you set up your personal space. Expect to find hammocks, camping tents, and lounge chairs—perfect for lounging, reading, or just soaking up the sun. The atmosphere is casual and welcoming, ideal for unwinding without feeling rushed.

Exploring the Trails and Wildlife

The island features hiking and walking trails, which are perfect for discovering the local flora and fauna. Among the highlights are the friendly whiptail lizards—harmless creatures that visitors often find amusing and intriguing. The trails are designed for gentle walking, so even less-active travelers will find enjoyment in exploring at their own pace.

One guest commented, “We loved the chance to stroll along the scenic trail and see the exotic wildlife; it felt like stepping into a nature documentary.” Exploring the island’s natural landscape offers a quiet, immersive experience away from busy tourist spots.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

For marine enthusiasts, snorkeling in the mangroves adds another layer of adventure. The shallow waters reveal a surprising variety of marine life, making it a delightful activity for both beginners and seasoned snorkelers. The calm, shallow sea provides a safe environment for exploring underwater wonders, with the added bonus of observing how the mangroves support a thriving ecosystem.

Picnic and Dining

A highlight of the tour is the delightful picnic, with a menu sent in advance to customize your meal. Expect a well-prepared packed lunch, possibly including local flavors and fresh ingredients. Many reviews express excitement about the food—”It was so nice to enjoy a picnic on the beach in such an intimate setting,” comments one traveler.

Alternatively, your lunch can be delivered at your preferred time, giving you the freedom to relax and dine whenever suits you best. This flexibility ensures your experience remains personalized.

Additional Sightseeing: Dennery Lookout

En route back or during the day, you’ll pass the Dennery Lookout, also called Mandalee Point. From here, you’ll see the islet of the fishing village of Dennery, offering a scenic vantage point that adds a cultural and visual touch to your trip.

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Inclusions

The total duration is approximately 6 hours, providing ample time to relax, explore, and enjoy your surroundings without feeling rushed. The tour price includes all snorkeling equipment, hammocks, lounge chairs, kayaks, and a packed lunch, making it a comprehensive, hassle-free experience.

Price and Value

At $850 per group, the cost might seem high for some, but it reflects the exclusivity and personalized nature of the experience. Since only your group participates, you avoid crowds and noisy tour groups—a significant value for those seeking tranquility. The all-inclusive approach — covering activities, equipment, and meals — simplifies planning and allows you to focus on enjoying your day.

What’s Not Included

Alcoholic beverages are not included, so if you want to celebrate with a cold drink, you’ll need to bring your own or purchase locally. Also, the tour’s focus on gentle activities means it’s not suited for those seeking high-adrenaline adventures.

Weather and Cancellation Policy

Good weather is essential, as the experience is outdoors and reliant on calm seas. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a new date or a full refund. Cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance, giving flexibility if weather turns sour unexpectedly.

Authentic Experiences and What Travelers Say

While there are no official reviews yet, the tour description and features suggest a high likelihood of positive feedback. Past participants are sure to appreciate the personalized, quiet, and nature-focused aspects of this trip.

One key insight from the description is the emphasis on peaceful exploration—a rarity in a busy world—and the chance to connect with nature in a meaningful way. The opportunity to observe harmless wildlife and snorkel around mangroves adds a sense of discovery that’s hard to match in typical beach resorts.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best for couples or small groups seeking a tranquil day immersed in nature. It’s perfect if you value personalized attention, want to avoid crowds, and enjoy a mix of gentle activities like kayaking, walking, and snorkeling. It’s also ideal for those wanting a flexible, customizable meal and a peaceful setting to unwind.

If your idea of a perfect vacation involves quiet beaches, wildlife, and private adventures, this tour offers a memorable way to connect with St. Lucia’s natural beauty.

Summary

In essence, the East Coast Private Island Day Trip offers an authentic, peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle, with a focus on natural beauty and personalized service. The combination of scenic boat or kayak transfer, wildlife encounters, snorkeling, and your own private beach makes it a compelling choice for those wanting a slow-paced, intimate experience.

While the price reflects the exclusivity, many will find the value in the intimacy, flexibility, and natural immersion. It’s a great way to truly experience the serene side of St. Lucia—perfect for lovers of nature and tranquility seeking a unique and memorable day.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, pickup from your accommodation in Marigot Bay is included, and transportation to and from the island is via boat or kayak.

Can I choose between kayaking and boat ride?
Absolutely. The tour offers both options, so you can decide whether you want a more active or relaxed start.

What should I bring?
You might want to bring swimwear, sun protection, and possibly a camera. Snorkeling equipment is provided, but you can bring your own if preferred.

How long do I spend on the private island?
You’ll have about 4 hours on the island, giving plenty of time to relax, explore, and enjoy your picnic.

Are children allowed?
The experience is designed for adults, especially given the gentle activities involved, but children in small groups may be considered on request.

What is included in the price?
All activities, snorkeling gear, hammocks, lounge chairs, kayaks, and your picnic lunch are included.

Is the tour suitable for anyone with mobility issues?
Since the activities involve walking, kayaking, and snorkeling, it may not be suitable for travelers with mobility challenges.

Can I customize the meal?
Yes, your picnic menu is sent in advance for you to select your preferences, ensuring a personalized dining experience.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking at least a few days ahead is recommended, especially for customized meal options and to secure your preferred date.

This private island trip combines gentle adventure with natural beauty, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a peaceful, authentic taste of St. Lucia’s coast.