St Thomas: High-Speed Harbor Jet Boat Tour & Coastline Thrills

Summary

Jet boat spins, sea spray and harbor laughs in St Thomas

You’ll jump right into island energy on this high-speed jet boat tour from Charlotte Amalie—expect wild spins, sea spray in your face, stories from your local captain, and up-close looks at Hassel and Water Islands. It’s loud, fast, and full of laughter—leaving you salty-skinned and grinning long after you step back on shore.

What’s the experience like?

“Hold onto your hats — or just lose ‘em!” That’s what Captain Mike yelled before he cranked up the engine, and honestly, I should’ve listened. The Screamin’ Eagle isn’t just a name; it’s a warning (in the best way). We’d barely left Charlotte Amalie cruise port when the wind started whipping my hair into knots and the salty air hit my face. Mike pointed out Hassel Island as we flew past — I caught flashes of green hills and old stone ruins, but mostly I was busy gripping the rail and laughing like an idiot.

I didn’t expect to feel that mix of nerves and giddy excitement. There’s something about skimming over crystal-clear water at that speed — you can smell the ocean sharpness, hear everyone whooping as we spun around in these wild 180s. The captain kept tossing in bits of St Thomas history between fishtails (I only caught half because I was yelling over the engine), but I remember him talking about pirates hiding out near Water Island. Li, this couple from New York next to me, tried to take a selfie mid-spin and almost lost her phone — she just shrugged and grinned with seawater dripping off her nose.

This is definitely a wet ride. My shirt stuck to my back by the time we slowed down near the harbor again, sun glinting off everything. It wasn’t fancy or quiet or anything like that — more like pure noisy fun with strangers who felt like friends by the end. I still think about that first big spin where my stomach dropped and everyone screamed at once. So yeah, if you want calm sightseeing, maybe skip it…but if you want to feel wide awake in St Thomas for an hour, this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — High speed harbor and coastline tour

• Receive brief orientation
• Cruise into St. Thomas harbor
• Listen to local history commentary
• Pass by Hassel Island
• Pass by Water Island
• Tour around Charlotte Amalie Harbor
• Experience high speed spins and fishtails
• Enjoy sea spray and scenic views

Top questions

How long is the St Thomas high-speed harbor tour?

The tour lasts about one hour from Charlotte Amalie cruise port.

Will I get wet on the Screamin’ Eagle jet boat?

Yes—riders will get sprayed by seawater during this wet ride.

Is there a guide or commentary included?

Yes—the captain provides fun commentary and shares local history along the way.

Are there any health restrictions for this jet boat tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What islands do we see during the harbor tour?

You’ll pass by Hassel Island and Water Island during your ride around Charlotte Amalie Harbor.

Is pickup included for this St Thomas jet boat tour?

The tour departs from Charlotte Amalie cruise port; public transportation options are nearby but pickup isn’t included.

What’s the minimum height requirement?

You must be at least 42 inches (4 feet) tall to join the ride.

What’s included

Your day includes a guided high-speed harbor ride on a turbo-charged jet boat departing from Charlotte Amalie cruise port—with lively local commentary throughout as you pass Hassel Island and Water Island before returning salty (and smiling) to shore.