US Virgin Islands: Private Boat Charter & Snorkeling Day

Summary

Private boat day in usvi with snorkeling music and beach stops

You’ll set your own pace as you island-hop around St. Thomas and St. John on a private powerboat charter—swimming with turtles at Maho Bay, lounging on soft sand at Trunk Bay, or just drifting wherever feels right that day. With snorkeling gear provided and cold drinks always within reach, you’ll get those rare moments where time slows down—just sun, sea, and your crew.

What’s the experience like?

I’ll be honest — I booked this US Virgin Islands private boat charter mostly because my brother wouldn’t stop talking about “doing it our way” for once. We met Captain Marcus at American Yacht Harbor in St. Thomas (he’s got that easygoing island smile), and he just asked, “Where do you want to go?” It threw me off — I’m used to tours where everything’s planned to the minute. Here, we picked beaches on a whim: Maho Bay for turtles, Trunk Bay just because I’d heard the sand was soft as flour (it is), and then Sapphire Beach when we got hungry. The wind whipped my hair all over my face; I didn’t even care.

The boat itself — Aquarius — felt brand new, but not precious. My niece sprawled on the bow with her headphones while we blasted our own playlist through some wild Bluetooth system (Marcus pretended not to judge our 90s choices). He handed out snorkel gear like it was nothing and pointed out which cays had calmer water that day. At Maho Bay, my nephew swore he saw a turtle wink at him. Maybe he did? The water tasted salty-sweet when I accidentally inhaled it trying to laugh underwater.

Lunch was whatever snacks we’d brought, plus cold beer from the cooler. There’s something about eating chips after swimming that makes them taste better than any restaurant meal. We drifted past Lindquist Beach and Secret Harbour without rushing — no pressure to move along or stick to some schedule. The sun felt sharp but good on my shoulders, and honestly, I lost track of time completely by the end.

I still think about that moment at Trunk Bay when everyone went quiet for a second — just floating, listening to nothing but water slapping against the hull and some distant laughter from another boat. That’s what stuck with me most. If you’re looking for a USVI private boat charter where you can actually breathe and do what you want (with a local captain who knows every hidden corner), this is it.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private boat charter around USVI

• Begin at American Yacht Harbor, St. Thomas
• Visit Honeymoon Beach
• Stop at Secret Harbour Beach Resort
• Explore Magens Bay
• Relax at Sapphire Beach
• Enjoy Coki Beach
• Visit Lindquist Beach
• Return to American Yacht Harbor

Top questions

Where does the USVI private boat charter start?

The charter usually starts at American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook, St. Thomas. Pickup can also be arranged at Yacht Haven Grande or Cruz Bay on St. John with advance notice.

How many people can join the private boat tour?

The price covers a private group of up to 12 guests—not per person pricing.

What beaches or stops are possible on this USVI boat tour?

You can visit places like Maho Bay, Trunk Bay, Honeymoon Beach, Lindquist Beach, Coki Beach, Sapphire Beach, Magens Bay, Secret Harbour Beach Resort—your itinerary is flexible.

Is snorkeling equipment included?

Yes, plenty of snorkeling gear is provided for everyone onboard.

Are drinks included during the trip?

Soda, water, and beer are available onboard throughout your day.

Can infants join this USVI private charter?

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

Is public transportation nearby for getting to the marina?

Yes—public transportation options are available close to American Yacht Harbor in St. Thomas.

Are there any COVID-19 safety measures?

Crew are tested monthly for COVID-19; vessels are sanitized after each trip; masks optional outdoors but welcome if preferred.

Can we visit British Virgin Islands on this charter?

No—BVI stops aren’t available on this tour; book Product Code 111649P25 for BVI trips instead.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup at American Yacht Harbor (or other marinas by request), use of all snorkeling equipment onboard Aquarius, unlimited soda, water and beer from the cooler—and guidance from a local captain who helps shape your route between St. Thomas and St. John’s best beaches before heading back whenever you’re ready.