Private 37' Axopar Charter — Island Hopping from Cruz Bay to Buck Island
Set out from Cruz Bay aboard a 37' Axopar for a fully customizable private charter across St. John and St. Thomas. Expect calm morning runs, top snorkeling at Trunk Bay and Buck Island, and the convenience of onboard water, sodas and a restroom.
The Experience
Before You Go
Book morning departures
Mornings offer flatter seas and the best underwater visibility for snorkeling at reefs and shipwrecks.
Pack reef‑safe sunscreen
Sun reflect off the water intensifies UV exposure — use reef‑safe sunscreen and reapply after swimming.
Bring your own snorkel mask
If you rely on good-fitting gear, bring a personal mask to avoid leaks and fog during reef stops.
Prepare for motion
Take motion‑sickness medication before boarding if you’re prone to seasickness; open-air decks reduce symptoms.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Lime Out taco boat in Coral Bay for a casual waterside lunch
- •Less‑visited northshore coves on St. John for quieter snorkeling away from Trunk Bay crowds
Wildlife
- •Green sea turtle
- •Caribbean reef fish like parrotfish and sergeant majors
Conservation Note
Operators encourage reef‑safe sunscreen and careful anchoring to protect coral; stick to marked mooring spots and avoid touching coral or turtles.
These waters have carried indigenous navigators and later colonial trade routes; plantation ruins and old moorings dot the shorelines.
Photographer's Notes
- • Bow looking toward the beach for dynamic island profiles
- • Over the stern while snorkeling for reef canopy shots
- • Anchored at Trunk Bay with shoreline and reef in frame
What to Bring
Reef‑safe sunscreenEssential
Protects skin and local coral ecosystems from harmful chemicals.
Snorkel mask (personal)Essential
Ensures a secure fit and clearer vision at reefs and wrecks.
Light windbreaker
Blocks the breeze on the open run back to dock during cooler months.
Water shoes
Useful for rocky landings and wet dinghy transfers to shore
Common Questions
Where do cruises depart and end?
Pickups are from the National Park Dock in Cruz Bay (St. John) and from 'P' Dock behind OutRiggers; the trip returns to the same departure point.
How long is the charter?
The standard trip is six hours and fully customizable within that window.
Is food and drink provided?
The charter includes bottled water, soda, and alcoholic drinks such as beer and rum punch; plan to bring extra snacks or arrange a lunch stop like Lime Out in Coral Bay.
Can we snorkel shipwrecks and see turtles?
Yes — Buck Island wrecks and turtle‑frequented reefs are common stops, weather and currents permitting.
Is the boat good for children or people with limited mobility?
The outing is family‑friendly, but it's not recommended for those with serious back or heart conditions; small children can ride in strollers prior to boarding.
What is the cancellation policy?
All sales are final; trips may be canceled for bad weather with refunds at the operator’s discretion.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
6 hours
Location
Cruz Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for average fitness; you should be able to step on/off a boat and climb a short ladder into the water
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