Sail and Snorkel Full Day Charter – Customized Itinerary USVI

A Private Sailing and Snorkeling Adventure in the US Virgin Islands: What You Need to Know

Imagine gliding across turquoise waters on a beautifully maintained Caribbean-style sailboat, with the wind in your hair and the promise of vibrant marine life beneath you. That’s exactly what the Sail and Snorkel Full Day Charter offers—an intimate, all-inclusive day exploring the best of St. Thomas and nearby cays for around $220 per person. This tour, booked on average 32 days in advance, lasts about 5 and a half hours, giving you ample time to soak up the sun, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy gourmet lunches at scenic spots.

Two things we love about this experience are its personalized nature—capped at 6 guests, ensuring a relaxed and attentive service—and the variety it offers, from calm beach hopping to snorkeling with turtles and sea rays. Plus, all drinks and snacks are included, making it feel more like a luxurious day out with friends than a typical tourist excursion.

A possible consideration is the price point; at $220, it’s more expensive than some group tours, but the intimate setting and all-inclusive approach mean you’re paying for quality and comfort. This tour is perfect for couples, families, or small groups seeking an authentic, personalized Caribbean experience away from the crowds.

If you’re after a day that combines sailing, snorkeling, scenic views, and gourmet food in a relaxed setting, this trip is likely to suit you well—especially if you value high-end gear, knowledgeable crew, and a bespoke itinerary as reflected in glowing reviews.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: Limited to 6 guests, ensuring attentive service and a private feel.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Drinks, snacks, and a gourmet lunch are included, adding to the leisurely vibe.
• Snorkeling at Top Spots: Multiple stops at the V.I. National Park, Christmas Cove, and remote cays offer diverse marine environments.
• Expert Crew: Guides Kim and Alan are praised for their hospitality, local knowledge, and engaging snorkeling tours.
• Scenic Sailing: Enjoy the gentle sway of the Caribbean cutter and views of St John and surrounding Cays.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancel up to 24 hours in advance, making it a low-risk choice.

An In-Depth Look at the Sail and Snorkel Full Day Charter

Imagine a day spent on a Caribbean-style cutter, a boat that combines classic charm with modern comfort. You’ll start your journey at Sapphire Beach Marina at 9:00 am, where the crew welcomes you aboard for a truly customized adventure. Unlike large group tours, this experience is private, designed exclusively for your group, which means more personalized attention and a flexible itinerary.

The Itinerary: A Day of Beach Hopping and Marine Encounters

The highlight is undoubtedly the chance to snorkel in some of the Virgin Islands’ most beautiful spots. Your crew will take you to multiple beaches, including the V.I. National Park on St. John, renowned for its vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Other stops include Christmas Cove at St. James and remote cays with pristine waters and coral formations.

What makes these locations special? For one, the reviews emphasize the stunning clarity of the water—perfect for spotting sea turtles, stingrays, and schools of colorful fish. One reviewer noted, “We saw turtles, stingrays, and schools of fish at three great spots,” confirming the marine diversity. These stops are carefully chosen to deliver the best snorkeling experiences while avoiding overly crowded spots.

Snorkeling Gear and Marine Encounters

Your guides supply high-end snorkel gear and swim noodles, ensuring comfort and safety. We loved the way the guides share their local knowledge, making snorkeling not just about floating in the water but also about learning about the marine environment. And if you’re lucky, you might spot a turtle or stingray, as one guest said, “Kim and Alan were great hosts, guides, and captains and have such a beautiful and comfortable boat.”

Gourmet Lunch and Refreshing Drinks

After some underwater exploration, it’s time to relax and refuel. The crew serve fresh sliced fruit, snacks, and a gourmet lunch—often at spots like Pizza Pi or Lovango Resort—which offers a delightful break amidst your adventure. The all-inclusive drinks are a big plus, with crew-served island cocktails, beer, and seltzers.

Guests have commented on the quality of service—“They took care of us and provided excellent drinks,” one reviewer noted. The experience feels more like a private yacht day rather than a typical boat tour.

Scenic Sailing and Relaxation

Between snorkeling stops, you’ll enjoy sailing through the cays, feeling the sea breeze and taking in superb views of St John and the surrounding islands. You can sunbathe on the deck, lounge, or even paddle around on the provided floatation devices. This relaxing pace is part of what makes the trip so appealing.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This experience is best suited for small groups or couples who value personalized service and a relaxed, yet adventurous, day on the water. It’s ideal if you’re eager to snorkel multiple spots, enjoy gourmet food, and sail aboard a well-equipped, comfortable boat. Reviews highlight that guides are knowledgeable and friendly—perfect for travelers who want an authentic, low-pressure Caribbean day.

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing at $220 per person reflects the high level of service, private nature, and inclusive amenities. While on the higher end, many guests find the experience to be worth the cost, especially given the small group size and quality of the equipment and food.

The tour lasts roughly 5.5 hours, starting at 9:00 am, offering plenty of time for snorkeling, relaxing, and sailing. The meeting point at Sapphire Beach Marina is accessible, and since the experience is private, you won’t have to worry about strangers disrupting your day.

The cancellation policy offers peace of mind, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance. The tour also requires good weather, which is typical for boat trips—so some flexibility may be needed in case of poor conditions.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re looking for a relaxed, personalized day of sailing and snorkeling in the Virgin Islands, this charter hits the mark. Its all-inclusive approach, combined with a knowledgeable crew and exquisite scenery, makes for a memorable Caribbean experience. The emphasis on small group intimacy, gourmet lunch, and multiple snorkeling stops means you’ll get the most out of your day without feeling rushed or crammed on a crowded boat.

This tour particularly appeals to travelers who appreciate high-quality equipment, local insights, and a flexible itinerary tailored to your interests. It’s ideal for those celebrating special occasions or simply seeking a more authentic, luxurious day at sea.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
It costs $220 per person, which includes snacks, drinks, snorkeling gear, and a gourmet lunch.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 9:00 am.

Where does the tour depart from?
The meeting point is Sapphire Beach Marina at 6720 Smith Bay Rd, St Thomas, USVI.

Is this experience private or shared?
It’s a private tour, with only your group participating.

Are drinks and snacks included?
Yes, crew-served island cocktails, beer, seltzers, sliced fresh fruit, and snacks are all included.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the start time.

What snorkeling spots will we visit?
The tour visits the V.I. National Park, Christmas Cove, and remote cays with crystal-clear waters and abundant sea life.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, sun protection, a towel, and perhaps a waterproof camera. The boat provides high-end snorkel gear.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but it’s best for those comfortable in the water given the snorkeling activities.

What if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you will be offered a different date or a full refund.

In sum, the Sail and Snorkel Full Day Charter offers a well-rounded, luxurious day on the water, perfect for those wanting a more exclusive, authentic experience in the US Virgin Islands. With its combination of scenic sailing, vibrant marine life, and gourmet touches, it’s a trip likely to create lasting memories—especially when shared with those you care about most.