Virgin Islands: Private Catamaran Beach Hopping & Snorkel Tour

Summary

Beach bars, sea turtles & island music on your own boat

You’ll hop between quiet bays and lively beach bars across St. Thomas and St. John on your own private catamaran—with time to snorkel with turtles at Maho Bay, float off Trunk Bay, and grab tacos at Lime Out before relaxing at Water Island or Magens Bay. It’s all set to island music with drinks included—and plenty of room to just be yourself.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the way the MV Poseidon barely rocked as we climbed aboard—felt steadier than any boat I’ve been on, which honestly surprised me. Our captain, Mark, handed out cold beers right away (I took a soda, still half-asleep) and asked where we wanted to go. Someone said Maho Bay for turtles, someone else wanted Secret Harbour Beach Resort for lunch. Mark just grinned and said we’d fit it all in. The air smelled like sunscreen and salt, and the stereo played something reggae-ish that made everything feel lighter.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much at 10am but there’s something about bouncing over the water with friends that makes you forget you’re an adult. We stopped at Honeymoon Beach first—water so clear it almost looked fake—and I tried snorkeling for the first time since I was a kid. Saw a turtle glide past under me, slow and unbothered. My mask kept fogging up but honestly? Didn’t care. At Trunk Bay, we just floated off the back of the boat until our fingers wrinkled up. The sun was strong but there’s shade on the catamaran if you need it (I did).

Lunch at Lime Out was messy—in a good way. Tacos dripped down my arm and nobody minded because everyone else looked the same. There’s this easy rhythm to island days: swim, snack, repeat. At Water Island later, Mark dropped us so close to shore I barely got my ankles wet stepping off—never seen a boat do that before. Someone played “Three Little Birds” too loud but nobody complained; even the bartender at Dinghy’s just laughed and poured another round.

We never felt rushed—if anything, we probably lingered too long at Magens Bay just watching clouds drift over the hills while some local kids played soccer in the sand nearby. It’s weird how quickly you settle into doing nothing here. On the ride back I found myself thinking about that turtle again—just moving slow, not worried about anything except what’s right in front of him.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Private Virgin Islands boat tour

• Board MV Poseidon catamaran
• Discuss itinerary with captain
• Visit Water Island
• Visit Secret Harbour Beach Resort
• Visit Honeymoon Beach
• Visit Trunk Bay
• Visit Maho Bay
• Visit Magens Bay
• Swim and snorkel at stops
• Enjoy drinks at beach bars

Top questions

How many people can join this private catamaran tour?

The MV Poseidon accommodates up to 12 guests for private charters.

Is snorkeling gear provided on this Virgin Islands tour?

Yes, brand new snorkel equipment is included for all guests.

Are drinks included during the day trip?

Your charter includes beer, soda/pop, bottled water, and ice throughout the day.

Can we choose our own itinerary or stops?

Yes—the captain works with your group to design a custom route based on your preferences.

Which beaches can we visit on this catamaran tour?

You can visit places like Maho Bay, Trunk Bay, Honeymoon Beach, Magens Bay, Water Island, and Secret Harbour Beach Resort.

Is lunch included in the price?

No—lunch is not included but you can stop at places like Lime Out or other beach bars for food along the way.

Are infants or small children allowed onboard?

Yes—infants and small children are welcome; they can ride in a pram or stroller or sit on an adult's lap.

Does this tour include pickup from our hotel?

No hotel pickup is mentioned; you’ll meet at the designated marina location instead.

What’s included

Your private day aboard MV Poseidon includes use of brand new snorkel gear for everyone in your group plus unlimited beer, soda/pop, bottled water and ice—all handled by your captain (tip not included). Mooring permits and U.S. park fees are covered too; just bring your swimsuit and let them handle the rest.