Planning a trip to the US Virgin Islands? A private boat charter offers an unbeatable way to see the islands on your own terms. This experience, offered by Bonus Time Charters, promises a personalized adventure aboard a sleek Power Catamaran, with options for both half-day and full-day excursions. Whether you’re after underwater wildlife, secluded beaches, or just a relaxing day on the water, this tour might just be your ticket.
What we love about this experience is how flexible it is — you can tailor your itinerary to suit your interests, whether it’s snorkeling with turtles, exploring quiet coves, or grabbing a slice of Pizza Pi floating pizza from the famous Pizza Pi boat. Plus, the boat is praised for its cleanliness and comfort. The chance to see the islands from the water, with knowledgeable guides steering the way, makes this a standout option for travelers seeking authenticity and value. The only consideration? Fuel charges are extra, based on usage, which can add to your costs depending on how far you go.
This tour suits groups of up to 8 people who want a private, intimate experience. If you’re visiting with family, friends, or even as a couple, this setup allows for a relaxed, customized day out. It’s especially appealing for cruise ship travelers who want to maximize their time on land and water without the crowds.
Key Points
- Private, customizable experience tailored to your interests
- Excellent value for up to 8 guests, with all the comforts of a clean, well-equipped boat
- Stunning snorkeling spots and quiet beaches, perfect for underwater encounters
- Flexible itinerary that can include stops like Maho Bay, Waterlemon Cay, and Christmas Cove
- Highly praised guides knowledgeable about local waters and island stories
- Additional costs for fuel based on actual use, so budget accordingly
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Contents
- Key Points
- An Honest Look at the Experience
- The Itinerary: What to Expect
- What the Tour Includes: Making the Most of Your Day
- Price and Value
- Guides and Service
- Accessibility and Convenience
- The Experience in Detail
- Final Thoughts
- FAQ
- Our Top Picks in St Thomas
- More Private Tours in St Thomas
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in St Thomas
- More Tour Reviews in St Thomas
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in St Thomas we have recnetly reviewed
An Honest Look at the Experience
When considering a private boat tour like this, many guests find that the benefits go beyond just ticking sites off a list. The real value comes from the ability to craft a day that fits your pace and interests — and that’s exactly what Bonus Time Charters offers. With a fleet of 29′ and 32′ Power Catamarans, the boats are praised for their cleanliness and comfort, making long hours on the water enjoyable rather than tiring.
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The Itinerary: What to Expect
Waterlemon Cay is usually the first stop, where snorkelers can admire healthy populations of critically endangered elkhorn coral. As one reviewer noted, “the boat was very clean and comfortable,” and the snorkeling here offers a chance to see vibrant marine life in crystal-clear waters. The site is free to visit, and you’ll likely spend about 30 minutes exploring underwater.
Next, the tour typically heads to Maho Bay, famous for its calm waters and frequent sea turtle sightings. Guests describe it as a “beautiful, quiet spot,” perfect for snorkeling with turtles. One reviewer called it “stunning,” emphasizing the chance to see these gentle creatures in their natural habitat. Expect roughly an hour here, snorkeling and relaxing in a serene setting.
Scott Bay Beach offers a different vibe: a more secluded stretch of sand accessible only by boat. This is a great spot for swimming, relaxing, or exploring the remnants of the old Caneel Bay Resort. Visitors appreciate the “beautiful beach” and the chance to enjoy some quiet time away from crowds. An hour here provides ample opportunity for snorkeling, sunbathing, or just soaking up the scenery.
The final highlight tends to be Christmas Cove, home to Fish Cay and the famous floating Pizza Pi restaurant. Here, guests often snorkel around the sunken sailboat or enjoy a slice of pizza from the floating pizzeria, a unique experience noted by visitors as “delicious” and “fun.” One review called it the perfect way to finish the day, with plenty of time left for swimming and relaxing.
What the Tour Includes: Making the Most of Your Day
The tour package covers an experienced captain, water, ice, and a cooler, making it easy to stay refreshed. Guests are also provided with snorkeling equipment, ensuring everyone can enjoy the underwater sights. The boat is private, meaning your group can move at your own pace, and the itinerary is flexible. The tour’s duration is approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, but if you opt for the full day, you’ll have even more opportunities to explore.
Price and Value
At $795 per group (up to 8 people), this private tour offers strong value, especially considering the personalized service and the ability to visit multiple sites in one trip. Compared to shore excursions that are often crowded and inflexible, this private experience provides intimacy, comfort, and tailored adventures. Many reviews highlight how guides like Captain Bryan and Captain Andrew make the difference by sharing local knowledge and customizing the trip according to guests’ interests.
However, it’s important to factor in the additional fuel charge, billed at $7 per gallon. While this is not included in the price, it’s a fair and transparent policy. Guests have noted that fuel costs can add up depending on how far they go, so if you’re planning an all-day outing, budget accordingly.
Guides and Service
The guides, especially Captain Bryan and Captain Andrew, consistently receive praise for their friendliness, knowledge, and attentiveness. One guest said, “Bryan was our captain, DJ, snorkel fitter, and tour guide,” highlighting the added touch of personalized service. Many reviews mention how guides go out of their way to ensure everyone feels safe and comfortable, including accommodating mobility limitations and making sure snorkel gear fits properly.
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Accessibility and Convenience
The tour is suitable for most travelers, with the provider noting a willingness to accommodate various needs. If you’re coming from a cruise, you’ll need to arrange a taxi from the port to American Yacht Harbor, where the boat departs. The tour is mobile ticketed and confirmed instantly — no surprises there.
The Experience in Detail
From the moment you step onboard, you’ll notice how clean and well-maintained the vessel is. The boat is spacious enough for your group, with plenty of shaded areas and comfortable seating. The vibe is relaxed but professional, with the captain at the helm, ready to share stories and point out landmarks along the way.
Each stop offers something different: snorkeling around vibrant reefs at Waterlemon Cay, where one reviewer enjoyed “seeing lots of fish and sea turtles,” or relaxing on the quiet sands of Scott Bay, which feels like a hidden gem away from the busy beaches. The calm waters of Maho Bay make it a favorite for turtle sightings, and many guests remark on the surreal experience of swimming alongside these gentle creatures.
Christmas Cove stands out because of its novelty — floating pizzas and sunken sailboats — and reviewers love ending their trip with a slice of pizza from Pizza Pi, which has become a legendary part of the tour. Guests describe it as “delicious” and “fun,” a quirky way to cap off a memorable day.
The flexibility of the tour means you can tailor the stops or extend your time at favorite locations. The tour operators are happy to customize, making each trip a reflection of your interests. This is especially valuable in a place like the US Virgin Islands, where the options are endless, but time is limited.
Final Thoughts
This private boat charter is a fantastic way to see the best of St. John and St. Thomas with just your group, guides you’ll trust, and sites you’ll love. The combination of comfortable boats, knowledgeable captains, and a flexible itinerary creates a balanced experience that appeals to families, couples, or groups of friends eager to explore without the crowds.
The value for the price is solid, given how personalized and intimate the experience is. Plus, the chance to snorkel with sea turtles, explore remote beaches, and enjoy floating pizza makes it a truly memorable outing. Keep in mind the fuel surcharge, and plan your day accordingly if you want to maximize your time.
In essence, this tour is perfect for those who want an authentic, flexible, and fun adventure on the water, without sacrificing comfort or quality. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just seeking a day of island relaxation, this private charter ticks all the boxes.
Half or Full-Day Private Boat Charter from St. John or St. Thomas
“The boat was very clean and comfortable. Great captain and he took us to some beautiful remote places. Very relaxing.”
FAQ
Can I customize the itinerary?
Yes. The tour is fully customizable, and the guides are happy to accommodate special interests or specific sites you want to see.
What is included in the price?
Your fee covers the boat, captain, snorkeling equipment, water, ice, and a cooler. Fuel is not included and is billed separately based on usage.
How many people can join?
Up to 8 guests can join the private tour, making it ideal for small groups seeking a personal experience.
Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore underwater without needing to bring your own.
What stops are typically included?
Popular stops include Waterlemon Cay, Maho Bay, Scott Bay Beach, and Christmas Cove, but the itinerary is flexible.
How long is the tour?
The half-day tour lasts approximately 3 hours 30 minutes, but full-day options are available for more extensive exploring.
Do I need to bring food or drinks?
You can bring your own beverages (no glass bottles, please). Purchases at places like Lime Out or Pizza Pi are your responsibility.
Is this suitable for cruise ship passengers?
Yes. Cruise travelers should plan to taxi from the port to American Yacht Harbor, where the boat departs.
To sum it up, this private boat tour offers a superb balance of flexibility, comfort, and authentic island experiences. It’s ideal for those who want to see the US Virgin Islands from a different perspective — on the water with a knowledgeable guide, exploring secret spots, and indulging in fun stops like floating pizza. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a day free of crowds, this trip is likely to leave you with lasting memories.
