BVI Private Charter to Jost Van Dyke on 32′ Power Catamaran

A relaxed, personalized day in the British Virgin Islands — perfect for beach lovers and groups seeking flexibility

If you’re considering a day trip to Jost Van Dyke from St Thomas, this private charter offers a laid-back, customizable experience that emphasizes fun and comfort. While we haven’t taken this exact trip ourselves, the detailed reviews and itinerary paint a clear picture of what to expect: a leisurely cruise on a 32′ power catamaran, tailored to your group’s desires, with stops at iconic beaches and beach bars.

Two aspects stand out: first, the flexibility of this private tour, which allows you to shape your day — whether you want to focus on swimming, snorkeling, or simply relaxing with a cold drink in hand. Second, the intimate setting means you’ll be with only your friends or family, avoiding the crowds often found on larger tour boats.

A potential consideration is the additional costs: alcohol, lunch, and customs fees are not included in the base price, so budget accordingly. Also, this trip is best suited for those who want a relaxed, unstructured day without strict schedules — it’s all about your group’s pace. If you crave a private, customizable Caribbean escape with plenty of beach time and lively island atmosphere, this tour could be just what you’re looking for.

Key Points

• Private and personalized: Only your group will be on the boat, with the captain ready to tailor your day.
• Flexible itinerary: Stops include Sandy Spit, Jost Van Dyke’s famous beaches, and beach bars like the Soggy Dollar and Foxy’s.
• Leisurely pace: Designed for relaxation and fun, not rushing from one spot to another.
• All-day comfort: Ice, bottled water, and snorkeling gear are provided, enhancing your experience.
• Additional costs: Alcohol, lunch, and customs fees are extra, so plan your budget.
• Ideal for groups: Up to 10 people, making it a good value for friends, families, or small groups.

An in-depth look at the private Jost Van Dyke experience

This 6-hour private boat trip offers a chance to explore Jost Van Dyke at your own pace, with the boat—Shady Lady—being exclusively yours. Starting at Sapphire Beach Marina in St Thomas, your day begins around 11:00 am, giving you a relaxed morning before heading out on the water. The private nature of the tour means your group will be free from the typical crowds, and you can decide how long to stay at each stop.

The boat and crew

The power catamaran is described as comfortable and well-equipped, with built-in coolers stocked with ice and bottled water. For larger groups, a mate joins the captain, ensuring smooth operations and extra safety. The crew is noted for their flexibility and helpfulness, eager to accommodate your wishes and craft a day that suits your group’s interests.

The itinerary

The highlight of this trip is the visit to Jost Van Dyke, but the real charm lies in the customizable stops. The trip can include:

• Sandy Spit: A tiny, uninhabited island that’s perfect for a quick swim and sunbathing. It’s also known as Corona Island because commercials were filmed there, making it a fun photo spot.
• The Bubbly Pool: Located on Jost Van Dyke, this natural whirlpool offers a unique swimming experience—sunny, fun, and a bit exhilarating.
• Beach bars: White Bay is famous for its laid-back vibe and colorful beach bars like Ivan’s Stress Free Bar, Hendo’s Hideout, Foxy’s, Corsairs, and the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar. Which one you visit is entirely up to you.
• Snorkeling: Use of snorkeling gear is included, so you can explore the clear waters around Sandy Spit or other nearby spots.

What travelers love

Reviews highlight how Aaron, the captain, excels at customizing the experience. One says, “Aaron’s flexibility in accommodating us and what we hoped to experience for the day was top notch.” Another notes that the trip is perfect for a family or friends wanting a relaxed, fun day with no rush.

The pros of this private charter

• Flexibility: You call the shots, choosing which beaches and bars to visit.
• Comfort: Your private boat means privacy and space, unlike crowded group tours.
• Value: For up to 10 people at $1,795, the cost per person becomes quite reasonable, especially considering the exclusivity.
• All-in-one package: The inclusion of bottled water and snorkeling gear reduces extra expenses.

The possible downsides

While the trip is designed for relaxation, the additional costs—for alcohol, lunch, and customs fees—can add up. Customs fees are $80 per person, which is worth noting if you’re on a budget. Also, the trip depends heavily on good weather, and any cancellations due to poor weather will result in a full refund or rescheduling.

The value of the experience

Compared to larger, more structured tours, this private charter offers intimate, customizable exploration. The 6-hour duration is ample time to enjoy several stops, swim, relax, and indulge in island vibes without feeling rushed. The price—$1,795 for your group—becomes quite good value when you factor in the exclusivity and tailored experience.

Who will love this tour?

This trip is ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples who want a private, relaxed day on the water. It’s perfect if you appreciate flexibility, want to avoid crowded tourist spots, and love the idea of customizing your island-hopping adventure. If you’re looking for a laid-back day with plenty of swimming, beach bar hopping, and tropical scenery, this private charter is a strong choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a group tour or private?

This is a completely private tour, meaning only your group will be on the boat, with the captain and optionally a mate for larger parties.

What’s included in the price?

The price covers the boat, captain, mate (for larger groups), ice, bottled water, and snorkeling equipment.

Are alcoholic beverages included?

No, alcohol is not included but can be purchased for an additional charge. Remember, customs fees are $80 per person.

Can I customize the itinerary?

Yes, you can tell the captain where you’d like to go, and they can help craft your perfect day. Stops like Sandy Spit, the Bubbly Pool, and various beach bars are all options.

What is the meeting point?

The tour begins at Sapphire Beach Marina in St Thomas, with check-in around 11:00 am.

How long is the trip?

The duration is approximately 6 hours, giving ample time to explore, swim, and relax.

Is this suitable for all physical fitness levels?

Yes, but travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level to comfortably participate in swimming and boarding the boat.

What if weather cancels the trip?

If the weather is poor, the tour will be canceled or rescheduled, and you’ll receive a full refund.

How many people can join?

Up to 10 guests can join, making it a good value per person for small groups.

To sum it up, this private charter to Jost Van Dyke offers a flexible, intimate way to enjoy the best of the island’s beaches and bars. It’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed pace, want to avoid crowds, and value personalized service. While extras like alcohol and lunch cost extra, the overall experience promises memorable moments and the chance to make your own Caribbean story. If you’re looking for a stress-free, customizable day on the water with friends or family, this trip could be just the ticket.