THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Spend a private 6.25‑hour day aboard a catamaran from Cruz Bay, exploring reefs, hidden sandbars, and coastal rock formations with local captains. This flexible private charter is ideal for groups up to 12 who want curated snorkeling, quiet coves, and on‑board comforts.
Spend a private 6.25‑hour day aboard a catamaran from Cruz Bay, exploring reefs, hidden sandbars, and coastal rock formations with local captains. This flexible private charter is ideal for groups up to 12 who want curated snorkeling, quiet coves, and on‑board comforts.
Book with On The Sea Charters
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
392 ratings
Operated by On The Sea Charters · Cruz Bay, St. John
Off the water at Cruz Bay on St. John, the USVI - Private Full-Day Charter turns a single morning into an island-scale microadventure. Departing at 8:45 a.m., this 6.25‑hour private catamaran cruise carries up to twelve guests aboard vessels named Cheshire and Gato Mundo, and it moves at the pace of local knowledge. Captains who work these waters share routes chosen for light winds, calm snorkeling, and encounters with hawksbill turtles, parrotfish, and schooling jacks. They know where a sandbar appears on low tide, which cove collects the clearest surge-free water, and where natural rock formations frame a perfect lunch stop. Onboard amenities include snorkel equipment in sizes small through large, noodles and floats for casual paddling, ice and bottled water, a freshwater shower to rinse reef salt, and a Bluetooth sound system that keeps the vibe lively without overpowering conversation. The vessels are set up for groups who want both activity and relaxation. Itineraries are flexible. You can island hop between St. John’s protected bays and neighboring cays, pause at a popular beach bar for a local rum punch, or stretch out over a shallow reef to watch wrasses and anemonefish dart through coral fingers. Geologically the coast alternates between volcanic outcrops and carbonate beaches, producing cliffs, small sea caves, and scalloped shorelines that photograph well. Pricing is transparent: base full‑day private charters list at $1,050 with fuel estimates between $200 and $450 and a suggested captain gratuity. Groups above six pay a modest per‑person supplement; holiday dates may raise rates. The schedule starts in Cruz Bay, so visitors staying in Cruz Bay or nearby islands like St. Thomas can make a day of it. Practical packing is simple: sunscreen (no spray), a towel, reef‑safe sun protection, snacks or cash for an onshore lunch, and a light wind layer for the boat. The company supplies the heavy-lift items: masks, fins, flotation and shade. Why book this charter? Because it combines private-boat flexibility with captains who read these islands like a map: better snorkel time, quieter coves, and curated stops that maximize wildlife sightings and safe swimming. For visitors seeking a single, well-run day to sample the USVI’s reefs, beaches, and coastal geology, this private full‑day catamaran is hard to beat. Included on every charter are ice, bottled water, adult snorkel gear sized small to large, noodles, floats, a freshwater rinse, and dry bags for personal items — pack a reef‑safe sunscreen and a dry change. The crew maintains basic safety gear and will brief your group before departure. To reserve the vessel that fits your group size and preferred route, book through the operator’s reservation page; referral booking information is provided with your confirmation. Expect memorable, local-led days always.
Full‑day private charters depart at 8:45 a.m. and run approximately 6.25 hours; return time depends on chosen route and conditions.
The catamarans accommodate up to 12 guests comfortably; there is a surcharge per person over six.
Yes — adult snorkel equipment in sizes small through large, along with noodles and floats, is included.
Ice and bottled water are provided; plan to bring snacks, beverages, or cash for any onshore lunch unless otherwise arranged.
Accessibility varies by vessel and docking location; contact the operator with specific mobility needs before booking.
Expect tropical fish like parrotfish and wrasses, occasional hawksbill turtles, and schooling jacks near reefs and sandbars.
On The Sea Charters operates from Smith Bay, St. Thomas, offering private catamaran charters throughout the U.S. and British Virgin Islands. The company specializes in customizable half-day and full-day trips that focus on snorkeling, beach visits, and relaxed island cruising. Popular itineraries include Water Taxi, a half-day private catamaran exploring hidden beaches and vibrant reefs; USVI Private Full-Day and BVI Private Full-Day charters for extended island-hopping; and a BVI - Extended Private Full Day option for larger routes. Seasonal and special-event trips include the BVI Foxy's Old Year's Night New Years Eve Trip, a private evening charter, and the USVI Sunset Cruise, a 1.5-hour private sail timed for sunset views. More casual options such as Toast to Jost promise all-day relaxation in White Bay, while Golden Hours focuses on scenic sailing, reefs, beaches, and natural rock formations. Last Day Blues is designed for travelers' final day, combining a relaxed cruise, snorkeling, floating, and a lunch stop at Pizza Pi. All experiences are led by local, experienced captains who guide navigation, snorkeling spots, and island knowledge. Vessels are presented as private catamarans suitable for groups seeking a personalized charter experience. On The Sea Charters emphasizes flexible, private itineraries that allow guests to snorkel, lounge, and discover secluded spots on a schedule that suits them. Departure point: Smith Bay, St. Thomas. Departures leave from Smith Bay with tailored routes available for private groups and event-focused sails. Guests can expect snorkeling stops, reef exploration, beach time, and relaxed onboard comfort and personalized service.
Book with On The Sea Charters