St Thomas: Private Powerboat Charter & Snorkeling Day Trip

Summary

Private charter to Virgin Islands beaches with captain and snorkel gear

You’ll hop aboard a private powerboat in St Thomas with your own captain guiding the way—snorkeling reefs at Buck Island, swimming off hidden beaches near St John or Water Island, blasting music over open water, and drifting wherever feels right for your group. It’s not fancy—just honest fun, sun-warmed decks, salty air, and local stories that stay with you long after you’ve rinsed off the sand.

What’s the experience like?

“So where do you all want to go first?” That’s what Captain Mike asked as soon as we stepped barefoot onto the deck of the 37’ Intrepid, already feeling the sea breeze hit my face. I glanced at my friends — none of us had a clue. “Maybe Buck Island?” someone offered, though honestly, we just wanted to see what the day would bring. Mike grinned and said, “We’ll figure it out together.” He had that way about him — calm, local, like he’d seen every wave around St Thomas and St John. The cooler was already packed with ice and bottled water (and I may have slipped in a few sodas), so we were set.

The engine started up with this deep rumble you feel in your feet, and off we went past Coki Beach and Sapphire’s blue strip. I tried on the snorkel mask — always a little awkward for me — but Mike helped adjust the strap without making it weird. At our first stop, Buck Island Reef, I could actually smell salt and sunscreen mixing in the air. The water was clearer than any pool I’ve ever seen, and when I ducked under, it was just fish everywhere — yellow flashes darting by. One of my friends shrieked (happy shriek) at a turtle passing right beneath her. There’s something about floating there with only your breath in your ears that sticks with you.

Later on we cranked up our playlist — JL Audio system really does thump — while heading over toward Water Island. Saw a bunch of pelicans diving for lunch (I got splashed once; not proud). Lunch itself? We brought sandwiches from town since food isn’t included, but honestly, munching them on deck while staring at Magen’s Bay felt like a picnic that would ruin me for all future picnics. Mike told us stories about hurricanes and how some bays have different moods depending on the wind — I liked that he didn’t sugarcoat things or try to impress us.

We ended up stopping wherever looked good: Secret Harbour for a swim, then back past Trunk Bay just because the light was turning gold. None of us wanted to call it a day yet. It’s funny how fast eight hours can go when you’re out there — sunburned shoulders, salty hair, everyone tired but smiling stupidly at nothing in particular. If you get the chance to do this St Thomas boat rental with a local captain… just say yes. There’s nothing quite like it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private full-day boat charter

• Meet your Coast Guard captain
• Board the 37' Intrepid powerboat
• Customize your day with captain
• Enjoy snorkeling with provided gear
• Listen to music on JL Audio system
• Stay refreshed with ice and water
• Explore destinations around St Thomas

Top questions

How many people can join the St Thomas boat rental?

The boat can accommodate up to 12 passengers per charter.

Is snorkeling equipment provided on the trip?

Yes, top-of-the-line snorkel gear is included for all guests, including kids' sizes.

Do I need boating experience to rent this powerboat?

No boating experience is needed—a Coast Guard certified captain handles everything.

What destinations can we visit during our day trip?

You can visit places like Buck Island Reef, Hull Bay, Water Island, Coki Beach, Magens Bay, Trunk Bay, Virgin Gorda and more—the itinerary is flexible.

Is lunch included on this private charter?

No meals are included; you can bring your own food or plan stops at beach bars along the route.

Are drinks provided during the boat rental?

Bottled water and ice are provided; you may bring other beverages if you wish.

Does this tour include hotel pickup?

No hotel pickup is not listed as included; guests meet at the designated marina in St Thomas.

Can children join this boat tour?

Yes—children are welcome and kid-sized snorkel gear is available.

What’s included

Your day includes private use of a 37’ powerboat in St Thomas with a Coast Guard certified captain guiding your group wherever you choose to explore; all snorkeling equipment (including kids’ sizes), bottled water on ice in the onboard cooler, plus use of a high-quality JL Audio sound system for your music throughout the trip.