Tortola & Norman Island: Private Yacht Charter with Drinks

Summary

Private yacht day from Tortola to Jost Van Dyke & Norman Island

You’ll sail from Tortola to White Bay’s powdery beaches for a legendary Painkiller cocktail, then snorkel vibrant reefs at Norman Island with your local guide. End your private yacht charter at Willy T’s floating bar for music and laughter before cruising home—these are moments you’ll remember long after you’ve rinsed off the salt.

What’s the experience like?

“You ever tried a Painkiller before?” That’s what the bartender at White Bay asked as he handed me this frosty drink that smelled like nutmeg and coconut. I’d barely set foot on Jost Van Dyke — toes sinking into sand that felt almost too soft to be real — when our captain, Marcus, waved us over to the beach bars. The water was so clear you could see every shell. I remember thinking, this is what postcards try to look like but never quite get right. There were families laughing under palm trees and a couple of locals playing dominoes in the shade. I tried to say thank you in their accent — didn’t nail it, but got a smile anyway.

After drifting back to the boat (Aqua Symphony is bigger than it looks in photos), we headed for Norman Island. The wind picked up just enough to rattle the flags overhead and I caught that salty tang you only get out here. Marcus told stories about pirates hiding treasure in these caves — apparently Robert Louis Stevenson based “Treasure Island” on this place? We snorkeled at Pirates Bight; schools of blue fish darted around my legs and I kept losing track of time underwater. There was this moment where everything went quiet except for my own breathing through the mask — weirdly peaceful.

Last stop was Willy T’s floating bar. It’s loud, messy fun — people jumping off the deck (I chickened out), music thumping, someone handing out sandwiches and chips from behind the counter. The sun started dipping low and everything turned gold for a minute or two. I still think about that light sometimes when I’m stuck at my desk back home. Anyway, we cruised back toward Tortola with sticky fingers from too many snacks and hair full of salt spray. Not sure if it was the drinks or just being out there all day, but everyone seemed lighter somehow.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Island Serenity and Adventure

• Visit White Bay, Jost Van Dyke
• Snorkel and explore Pirates Bight, Norman Island
• Enjoy Willy T floating bar and swim

Top questions

How long does the private yacht charter last?

This is a full-day experience with time split between sailing, swimming, snorkeling, and relaxing at each stop.

Does the tour include food and drinks?

Yes, light snacks like chips, dips, sandwiches plus water, beers, sodas, juice, local drinks including Painkillers are included.

Are snorkeling equipment and water toys provided?

Yes, snorkeling gear as well as inflatable water toys, paddle board, underwater scooters and noodles are included onboard.

Is there a restroom on board?

Yes, there is a restroom available on Aqua Symphony yacht.

Can infants join this private yacht charter?

Infants are welcome but must sit on an adult’s lap during travel.

Is public transportation nearby for getting to departure point?

Yes, public transportation options are available close to where you board in Tortola.

What are the main stops on this day trip?

The main stops are White Bay (Jost Van Dyke), Norman Island (Pirates Bight), and Willy T’s floating bar.

Is lunch provided or should we bring our own?

A light lunch is provided onboard including sandwiches; you can also buy food at beach bars or Willy T if you want more variety.

What’s included

Your day includes use of Aqua Symphony yacht with WiFi onboard; all snorkeling equipment; inflatable water toys like paddle boards and underwater scooters; light snacks such as chips and dips plus sandwiches; unlimited waters, beers, sodas, juice and signature local drinks like Painkillers; plus a restroom onboard for comfort throughout your journey.