Simply Sailing Private Sail from Sapphire Marina

A Flexible, Authentic Sail in the US Virgin Islands

Imagine spending a few hours on the water, just you and your group, gliding smoothly around the Virgin Islands aboard a sturdy 40-foot pilothouse mariner. This private sailing tour from Sapphire Marina offers an intimate way to see some of the most stunning coastlines in the Caribbean, with options for morning or afternoon departures. For $799—a price that covers up to six people—you get nearly three hours of pure sailing, with the option to add a snorkel stop if you’re feeling adventurous.

What really makes this experience stand out are the personal touch and flexibility. The hosts are attentive and welcoming—Captain Rob and Captain Deb receive glowing reviews for their warmth and enthusiasm. We love the fact that you can simply sit back, enjoy the ride, and take in sweeping views of St. Thomas and St. John from the comfort of a private boat — no crowded catamarans or noisy groups. Another highlight? The tour includes snacks and beverages, making it an effortless way to relax without worrying about packing your own drinks or snacks.

A potential consideration is that the tour is primarily focused on sailing without stops — if you’re eager to snorkel or explore undersea life, you’ll need to request a stop in advance. But for many, the thrill of just sailing the calm Caribbean waters in a private setting outweighs this minor inconvenience. This experience is especially well-suited for couples, families, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed, personalized escape that emphasizes the beauty of being on the water.

Who should consider this tour? If you want a flexible, intimate sailing experience with stellar views, good company, and casual comfort, this trip hits the mark. It’s perfect for those who prefer sailing over stops, or for travelers celebrating a special occasion in an authentic setting.

Key Points

• Private and personalized experience with up to 6 guests.
• Flexible departure times in the morning or afternoon.
• All-inclusive snacks, soft drinks, water, and alcohol.
• Easy dock access at Sapphire Beach, simplifying logistics.
• Breathtaking views of St. Thomas and St. John from the water.
• Option to add a snorkel stop if desired, making the trip customizable.

A Closer Look at the Experience

This private sailing tour is designed to give you a taste of the Caribbean’s natural beauty, with the added comfort of exclusivity. We loved the simplicity of the itinerary — just sailing, with no pressure to stop or rush. The actual sailing is the star here. The boat itself is a well-equipped 40-foot pilothouse mariner, capable of handling the gentle Caribbean breezes with ease. Boarding at Sapphire Beach is straightforward, thanks to easy dock access, meaning you won’t have to wrestle with complicated transfers or crowded piers.

The sailing route focuses on the waters around St. Thomas and St. John, two of the most picturesque islands in the Virgin Islands chain. The experience is mostly about enjoying the scenic views and the sensation of being on the water. From the reviews, we see that guests are often struck by the breathtaking vistas — the way the coastlines curve, the blend of turquoise waters with lush green islands, and the way the sunlight dances on the water’s surface. One reviewer even mentioned, “The views were breathtaking,” which perfectly captures the essence of this trip.

While the trip is mainly sailing, there’s flexibility to include a snorkel stop if requested, allowing some underwater exploration. This is a smart option for those who might want a quick swim or to see marine life, though the core of the experience remains the serene sailing itself. The hosts are accommodating and happy to customize the experience.

The onboard amenities contribute to a relaxed atmosphere. Snacking and drinking are all taken care of, with bottled waters, sodas, and alcoholic beverages included. This means you can toast your trip or simply unwind with a cold drink, without extra costs or planning. The reviews highlight how these small touches enhance the overall enjoyment, making the trip feel effortless and luxurious.

Authentic reviews emphasize the warmth of Captain Rob and Captain Deb. One guest described their experience as “absolutely incredible,” and appreciated the “warmth and enthusiasm” of their hosts. Such personal touches make a notable difference, transforming a simple sailing trip into a memorable occasion. The tour’s focus on casual comfort and stunning scenery makes it ideal for travelers who want to relax and take in the sights without the fuss of larger, more commercial tours.

What the Itinerary Looks Like

The tour’s main feature is pure sailing — no scheduled stops, unless requested. You’ll start at Sapphire Beach, where boarding is straightforward, and then set sail around the nearby islands. Expect gentle breezes and calm waters, perfect for soaking in the scenery and unwinding. The trip provides an excellent opportunity to photograph the islands’ coastlines, with many guests noting how beautiful the views are from the water.

If you choose to add a snorkel stop, the hosts will tailor the route accordingly. This gives you a chance to see some marine life or just enjoy a refreshing swim in the clear waters, which many reviews suggest is a highlight for families and adventure lovers.

Throughout the trip, your crew will be attentive but unobtrusive, allowing you to relax or chat as you prefer. The 3-hour duration means you have plenty of time to appreciate the scenery, enjoy your snacks, and sip drinks while the boat glides smoothly over the water.

Price and Value

At $799 per group, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering it’s a private experience for up to six people. When you break down the cost, it’s roughly $133 per person if you fill every seat, which is quite reasonable for a private, all-inclusive water adventure in the Caribbean. The inclusion of snacks, drinks, and the personalized experience makes this a good deal for travelers seeking a relaxed, exclusive day on the water.

Compared to larger, group-oriented charters, this private setup ensures you’re not competing for space or attention. From the reviews, guests consistently mention how the personalized service and breathtaking scenery made the experience worth every penny.

Practical Tips for Booking and Participation

Since most bookings are made about 26 days in advance, it’s wise to plan ahead to secure your preferred departure time. The tour is near public transportation, simplifying logistics, but arriving a bit early to settle in and meet your hosts can help the day start smoothly.

Most travelers can participate, as the tour is suitable for those with basic mobility and no specific age restrictions are mentioned. It’s a great choice for families, couples celebrating an occasion, or friends looking for a laid-back day on the water.

Remember, crew gratuity is customary at 20%, so factor that into your budget. It’s a standard practice in the Caribbean, and rewarding attentive hosts is part of the experience.

Final Thoughts: Is This Tour Right for You?

If you’re after a personalized sailing experience and want to enjoy the Virgin Islands from the water, this tour could be a perfect fit. The emphasis on simply sailing and soaking in the views makes it especially appealing if you prefer a laid-back, scenic journey over active stops. The inclusion of snacks and drinks adds to the feeling of a carefree day, and the private setting guarantees you won’t be crowded or rushed.

The flexibility to add a snorkel stop makes it adaptable for various interests, and the positive reviews highlight the warmth of the hosts and the beauty of the surroundings. It’s particularly well-suited for small groups who value comfort, intimacy, and stunning vistas.

In essence, this trip offers a chance to unwind and enjoy the natural splendor of the Virgin Islands in a relaxed, private setting—an experience to cherish and remember.

FAQ

How many people can join this sailing tour?
Up to six guests can participate, making it a cozy, private experience.

What’s included in the price?
The cost covers the boat, snacks, bottled water, sodas, and alcoholic beverages. Crew gratuity is not included but is customary at about 20%.

Can I add a snorkel stop?
Yes, the hosts are happy to include a snorkel stop if requested, giving you a chance to see underwater life.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins and ends at Sapphire Beach in Smith Bay, St. Thomas.

How long does the trip last?
The experience lasts approximately 3 hours, giving you ample time to relax and enjoy the scenery.

What if the weather isn’t good?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This private sailing trip offers a relaxed way to explore the Virgin Islands’ beautiful waters, perfect for those who love authentic, scenic experiences with a personal touch. Whether you’re celebrating, escaping a busy schedule, or simply seeking stunning views, this tour delivers a memorable Caribbean day.