Full or Half Day Private Power Catamaran- USVI Beach and Snorkel

A Day on the Water in the US Virgin Islands: Private Power Catamaran Adventure

If you’re dreaming of a flexible, private day exploring some of the most stunning spots in the US Virgin Islands, this full-day private power catamaran tour might just be the perfect choice. Priced at $995 per group for up to 12 people, this 7-hour voyage from Red Hook, St. Thomas offers plenty of room, comfort, and opportunities for personalized experiences.

What we particularly love about this tour is how it combines the ease of a luxury boat with the chance to create a custom itinerary — whether that’s snorkelling with sea turtles, lounging on a secluded beach, or tasting the local Painkiller cocktail. The boat itself, a smooth-riding 36-foot power catamaran, feels spacious, stable, and well-equipped, ensuring your day on the water is both safe and enjoyable.

One small consideration — fuel costs are extra, billed at $8 per gallon, and the boat averages around 20-30 gallons a day. So, while the upfront price covers most expenses, keep that additional fee in mind.

This tour is best suited for travelers who appreciate flexibility, love being on the water, and want an intimate, guided experience with a friendly, knowledgeable captain. Families, small groups of friends, or couples will find it ideal — especially since reviews highlight the personalized service and relaxed, fun atmosphere.

Key Points

• Private & Flexible: Customize your itinerary with your captain, choosing stops that suit your interests.
• Comfort & Amenities: Spacious boat with fresh water shower, marine head, and shaded areas.
• Snorkeling & Beaches: Access to vibrant reefs, turtle sightings, and tranquil beaches like Honeymoon and Maho Bay.
• Local Flavors & Lunch: Option to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or onboard, with drinks included.
• Authentic Experiences: Small groups and personalized service ensure an authentic, relaxed adventure.
• Additional Costs: Fuel is not included and is billed separately at the end of the trip.

What to Expect on Your Private Power Catamaran Tour

This seven-hour adventure starts from American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook, a convenient departure point on St. Thomas. Once onboard, you’ll immediately notice the boat’s spacious design and its long swim ladders, which make water entry a breeze — a real boon for snorkeling and swimming.

The boat itself is a highlight: at 36 feet, it’s large enough to comfortably house your group, with plenty of shaded space and sunbathing nets at the bow. You’ll also find a marine head (toilet), a fresh water shower, and a changing area, making it feel like a floating luxury suite. The boat is stocked with bottled water, soda, beer, and top-tier snorkel gear, ensuring you’ll never go thirsty or unprepared.

Customizing Your Day

What makes this tour particularly appealing is how flexible it is. Your captain will reach out on the morning of your trip to help plan your day, based on your preferences. You might start with a snorkel session at Lovango Cay, a private island with vibrant reefs and calm waters, perfect for spotting colorful fish and maybe even some sea turtles.

Next, you could visit Honeymoon Beach—a spot famous for its calm, shallow waters, ideal for paddleboarding or just floating with a drink in hand. Reviews mention the beauty of the waters here, noting the chance to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Further along, a visit to Maho Bay offers the chance to snorkel with sea turtles feeding in the seagrass beds — a highlight for many travelers. One guest raved about the “tons of beautiful fish and turtles” seen during their snorkel, making it clear that wildlife sightings are a common and treasured aspect of this trip.

Iconic Stops & Local Flavor

Finally, your journey might take you to Christmas Cove on St. James Island, a tranquil harbor that’s perfect for a laid-back lunch. Many guests choose to order from Pizza Pi, a floating restaurant serving fresh pizza right to your boat — a fun, unique experience that captures the relaxed island vibe.

Throughout the day, you’ll enjoy complimentary drinks, which include soda, water, and beer, adding to the casual, carefree atmosphere. The reviews highlight the friendliness and professionalism of captains like Aaron and Hillary, who are praised for their knowledge, fun personalities, and attention to guest interests.

What Do Travelers Say?

Guests consistently praise the stunning views and the personalized service. One reviewer called their day “the best day ever,” emphasizing the captain’s knowledge and fun attitude. Others appreciated the opportunities to snorkel at different locations, often mentioning turtle sightings and vibrant reefs as highlights.

Some feedback points out minor issues — like ripped netting at the bow or expired sodas — but these seem to be quick fixes, with companies actively working to improve. The overall consensus remains highly positive, especially regarding the quality of snorkeling, the comfort of the boat, and the flexibility of the stops.

Analyzing the Value

At nearly $1,000 for a full day, this tour offers excellent value if you’re traveling with a group of friends or family, as it breaks down to roughly $83 per person for 7 hours of private access. That’s a lot of personalized time and unique experiences, far more than what a typical cruise or group tour might offer.

The inclusion of all snorkeling gear, drinks, and the captain’s expertise makes it a hassle-free way to explore the islands’ best spots. Plus, the option to enjoy lunch at a local restaurant or onboard adds flexibility. While fuel is extra, it’s a reasonable addition considering the boat’s size and fuel consumption.

The Ideal Traveler for This Experience

This tour suits travelers who value privacy, customization, and comfort. If you enjoy exploring at your own pace, snorkeling with turtles and colorful fish, and relaxing on a well-equipped boat, you’ll find this adventure well worth it. It’s especially attractive for families or groups of friends who want a shared, intimate experience, rather than a crowded cruise.

Couples seeking a romantic day on the water or small groups celebrating a special occasion will also find it a perfect fit. The reviews suggest that the laid-back, friendly atmosphere and the focus on personalized attention make this tour a memorable highlight of a trip to the US Virgin Islands.

FAQs

How many people can fit on the boat?
The boat is certified for up to 12 passengers, making it ideal for small groups seeking an intimate experience.

Is food included in the tour?
Lunch is not included but can be enjoyed at a local restaurant or brought onboard. Guests often stop at places like Lime Out for fresh pizza.

What should I bring?
Bring swimsuits, sunscreen, a hat, and waterproof cameras. The boat provides snorkel gear and floats, but you might want your own personal items or extra snacks.

Are drinks provided?
Yes, bottled water, soda, and beer are included. Additional drinks can be purchased or brought along.

What about the weather?
The tour operates in good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you can reschedule or receive a full refund.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are counted in the total guest count. This tour is suitable for most travelers, but always check with your captain if you have specific needs.

Final Thoughts

If you’re seeking a personalized, relaxed day on the water with plenty of snorkeling, beautiful island scenery, and the freedom to shape your itinerary, this private power catamaran tour hits all the right notes. The spacious boat, friendly crew, and flexible stops make it more than just a boat ride — it’s a curated island experience.

While the additional fuel cost is a small consideration, the overall value, especially for intimate groups, makes this a worthwhile splurge. It’s particularly appealing if you want a day filled with wildlife sightings, scenic views, and the kind of comfort that turns a good day into a great one.

Ideal for families, couples, or small groups wanting a hassle-free, authentic taste of the Virgin Islands, this tour offers a memorable adventure that’s both fun and deeply personal. Just pack your sense of adventure and a favorite sun hat — the Caribbean awaits.