Full-Day Private Powerboat Charter in St. Thomas — Snorkel, Island-Hop & Explore
A private 4–8 hour powerboat charter from St. Thomas that lets you craft the day: snorkel reefs, beach-hop, or cross to the BVI with a local, Coast Guard–certified captain. Enjoy snorkel gear, cold water, and a flexible itinerary tailored to your group.
The Experience
Before You Go
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Protect coral and your skin—reef-safe SPF and a hat will keep you comfortable and preserve the marine environment.
Budget for fuel and tips
Fuel surcharges vary by route (USVI vs BVI) and captains expect 15–20% gratuity—factor both into your final cost.
Pack a small dry bag
Keep phones, cameras, and a light jacket dry; a zippered pouch is handy for quick snorkeling stops.
Bring ID for BVI stops
A valid passport is required if your plan includes British Virgin Islands landings—check before you board.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Honeymoon Beach on Water Island for quiet sand and shallow snorkeling
- •Norman Island caves and secluded anchorages—less crowded early morning
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtles
- •Colorful reef fish (parrotfish, sergeant majors)
Conservation Note
Avoid anchoring on coral; use mooring buoys where available, carry out trash, and choose reef-safe sunscreen to minimize impact.
These waters were long-traveled by Arawak and later shaped by colonial shipping lanes, sugar plantations and maritime trade that connected the Caribbean to Europe and the Americas.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow of the boat for wake and island silhouettes
- • Shallow reef drop-offs from a low angle
- • Beach edges at low tide for reflections
What to Bring
Reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin while avoiding harm to coral and reef life.
Light dry bagEssential
Keeps electronics and valuables dry during on/off water activity.
Snorkel fins (optional)
Improves your ability to hold position over reefs and swim with currents.
Light windbreaker
Useful for cooler mornings or chop on open-water runs.
Common Questions
Are snorkel masks and fins provided?
Yes—Sonic Charters supplies snorkel masks and gear for all guests, including child sizes; you may bring your own for a custom fit.
Do I need a passport?
A current passport is required if your itinerary includes landings in the British Virgin Islands; for USVI-only trips, local ID is sufficient.
How are fuel charges handled?
Fuel surcharges are extra and depend on the route—expect roughly $150 for USVI circuits and $150–$300 if you cross to BVI or Virgin Gorda; final amount collected at trip end.
What's the usual group size?
Intrepid center-console boats accommodate up to nine passengers; trips are private to your party and a captain.
What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if you cancel at least 24 hours before departure; trips may be canceled for inclement weather.
Can children join?
Yes—charters are family-friendly and gear includes child-sized snorkels; supervise children closely during water entries and exits.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
4–8 hours
Location
Charlotte Amalie, U.S. Virgin Islands
Difficulty
moderate
Fitness Level
Reasonable mobility for boarding, getting in/out of water and walking on uneven sand; not strenuous but requires balance and stamina for snorkeling.
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