Private Fast Power Catamaran. Full or Half Day for Beach Hopping, Snorkel & Swim

If you’re planning a trip to St. Thomas and want to see the Virgin Islands from a different perspective, a private power catamaran tour might be just what you need. This experience, offered by Seas the Day Charters, combines the thrill of cruising on a sleek, fast boat with personalized stops at some of the most beautiful beaches and snorkeling spots in the region.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, the private setting means you and your group can choose your own itinerary, avoiding the crowds and customizing your day. Second, the brand-new vessel, MV Poseidon, promises comfort, stability, and speed, ensuring a smooth ride over the waters while staying dry and comfortable.

That said, it’s not a fully “all-inclusive” package—you’ll want to factor in gratuities and possible fuel surcharges, which can add to the cost. Also, if you’re craving a very structured, guided experience with scheduled stops, this might be more flexible than you prefer. But for those seeking a tailored, relaxed outing with the chance to snorkel with turtles and beach hop independently, it offers excellent value.

This tour is best suited for groups who enjoy having control of their day, love water activities, and appreciate the idea of exploring at your own pace on a comfortable vessel. Families, couples, and friends looking for a memorable, private adventure will find this a perfect fit.

Key Points

• Private Charter Flexibility: Customize your itinerary to suit your interests, whether that’s snorkeling, beach lounging, or exploring multiple islands.
• Comfort & Speed: The MV Poseidon offers a smooth, dry ride for up to 12 guests, making longer excursions more comfortable.
• All-Inclusive Value: U.S. park fees, mooring permits, water, soda, beer, and snorkel equipment are included, simplifying costs.
• Multiple Stunning Stops: From Water Island to Magens Bay, the tour covers iconic beaches and tranquil coves, with options to visit BVI (extra).
• Authentic Marine Encounters: Snorkel gear and knowledgeable captains mean you’re likely to see turtles, fish, and colorful coral.
• Flexible Duration: Ranging from 4 to 7 hours, the tour can be tailored for a half or full day of fun.

Discovering the Virgin Islands on a Private Power Catamaran

If you’re considering a day on the water, this private power catamaran tour offers a rare blend of adventure and relaxation. We’ll walk through what to expect, what makes it stand out, and how you can make the most of your trip.

The Vessel: MV Poseidon

The star of this tour is the MV Poseidon, a 36-foot TwinVee Ocean Cat. It’s known for its speed and stability, meaning you’ll get to your stops quickly and comfortably—crucial for making the most of your day. The boat’s low draft allows it to get close to beaches, and the transom ladder makes for easy water access. It’s a modern, well-equipped vessel, fitted with a Fusion stereo so you can listen to your favorite tunes, enhancing the laid-back vibe.

Custom Itinerary: Your Day, Your Rules

Unlike group tours with rigid schedules, this experience emphasizes personalization. The captain works with you to craft an itinerary based on your interests. You might choose to visit serene beaches, snorkel among vibrant coral reefs, or simply relax on a secluded stretch of sand with a cold drink in hand.

One of the best aspects? The boat’s low draft and transom ladder make beach landings simple and close, providing easy access for swimming, snorkeling, or stepping onto shore for a quick drink or bite.

The Stops: What’s on the Itinerary?

The tour typically includes a series of stops at beautiful islands and beaches, with the flexibility to stay or skip as you wish. Here’s a breakdown based on the itinerary:

• Water Island: A quick 30-minute stop, perfect for soaking up the sun or exploring. It’s a peaceful location with minimal crowds, ideal for relaxing or taking a dip.

• Little Buck Island: Known for its tranquil waters, this stop offers a chance to snorkel or lounge on the sand. It’s included in the tour and gets high praise from previous guests for its scenic beauty.

• Secret Harbour & Honeymoon Beach: These are popular, family-friendly beaches with calm waters. Guests often comment on how well the boat can get close to shore, making swimming and snorkeling easier.

• Trunk Bay & Maho Bay: These iconic beaches in St. John are included stops, appreciated by snorkelers and beach lovers alike. Visitors rave about the opportunity to snorkel in clear waters teeming with fish and sea turtles.

• Scott Bay Beach & Magens Bay: Both are included and offer stunning vistas. Magens Bay, in particular, is a highlight for many, with its soft white sand and calm, inviting waters.

Snorkeling and Marine Life

Guests consistently mention the quality of the snorkeling equipment, which is brand new and easy to use. With patience from the captain and a bit of luck, you’ll encounter sea turtles, colorful fish, and coral formations. Multiple reviews describe the experience as “like snorkeling in an aquarium,” reaffirming the high quality of the marine encounters.

One reviewer quoted: “Snorkeling around St Thomas & St John was an incredible experience. We saw turtles, starfish, stingrays, and tropical fish,” which aligns with what you can expect.

The Crew and Service

From the glowing reviews, it’s clear that the captains make a huge difference. Many mention specific captains like Holly, Glen, Wallens, Amanda, and Bryan, noting their knowledge, friendly personalities, and safety-conscious approach. They’re praised for their ability to adapt the itinerary to your’ desires, whether that’s a snorkeling-focused trip, beach lounging, or sightseeing.

Guests also appreciate captains’ ability to share stories, take photos, and ensure everyone feels comfortable. One reviewer said, “Captain Glen made the day about what we wanted to see,” highlighting the personalized touch.

Pricing and Value

At $895.50 for up to 12 guests, the cost breaks down to around $75 per person for a half-day, which many consider a good value given the exclusivity, comfort, and the multiple stops. The tour includes all U.S. park fees, permits, water, soda, beer, and snorkeling gear, making it easier to budget without surprises.

Keep in mind, gratuities are not included—a typical 15-20% tip is appreciated, and fuel surcharges may add a few extra dollars depending on how far you go.

Duration and Flexibility

Tour durations vary from 4 to 7 hours, depending on your preferences. Guests rave about how the flexible schedule allows for a more relaxed experience, with plenty of time for snorkeling, beach lounging, or just soaking in the scenery.

If you’re pressed for time, a half-day trip still offers a generous taste of the islands, but many guests wish they’d booked a full day to see even more.

Authentic Marine Encounters and Iconic Beaches

The Virgin Islands are famed for their crystal-clear waters and lively marine life, and this tour captures that essence perfectly. Whether you’re a seasoned snorkeler or a first-timer, the calm, shallow waters at many stops are perfect for discovering a world of colorful fish, gentle sea turtles, and coral gardens.

Many reviews mention swimming with turtles, which is often a highlight. Captain Wallens, for example, took guests to spots where they could see turtles up close and even spotted an octopus and a lemon shark. These encounters make the trip memorable and give you real stories to tell back home.

Beach stops like Magens Bay and Trunk Bay are picture-perfect with sweeping views, soft sands, and inviting waters. Guests often describe these moments as “breathtaking,” and the boat’s ability to anchor close to shore enhances the experience.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This private charter appeals most to travelers who want control and customization—families, friends, or couples eager to explore at their own pace without the constraints of a group tour schedule. It’s perfect for those who love water activities, enjoy beach lounging, or want to snorkel with marine life.

It’s also a fantastic choice for anyone craving privacy—your group won’t be sharing the boat with strangers—and for travelers who appreciate comfort and flexibility. If you’re looking for a laid-back, personalized day with stunning scenery, this tour checks all those boxes.

Practical Considerations and Tips

• Booking in advance is recommended, with the average booking window being about 33 days ahead.
• The cost per group is $895.50, which makes it a good value for groups of up to 12.
• The tour includes snorkel gear, water, soda, beer, and all permits, which simplifies planning.
• The duration can be tailored; a half-day might suit those with limited time, while a full day opens up more opportunities.
• Gratuity is not included but highly appreciated—plan for an extra 15-20%.
• If you’re interested in visiting the BVI, that’s available as an optional add-on.

The Sum Up

This private power catamaran tour offers a wonderful way to see the Virgin Islands’ highlights with a personal touch. Its comfortable vessel, customizable itinerary, and beautiful stops make it a smart choice for those looking for an authentic, relaxed, yet fun-filled day on the water.

You’ll love the chance to snorkel with turtles, explore gorgeous beaches, and enjoy the company of a knowledgeable, friendly crew—all while having the boat entirely to your group. It’s especially suited for travelers who value privacy, flexibility, and great value.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want to indulge in a memorable island adventure, this tour can be tailored to your interests and pace. With top-notch reviews praising the crew and the scenery, it’s easy to see why many consider it one of the best ways to experience the Virgin Islands.

FAQs

How many people can the boat accommodate?
Up to 12 guests, making it ideal for small groups seeking a private experience.

What is included in the price?
All U.S. park fees, mooring permits, snorkeling equipment, water, soda, beer, and the captain’s services.

Can I customize my itinerary?
Yes, the captain will work with your group to tailor the stops based on your interests.

How long does the tour last?
It ranges from about 4 to 7 hours, depending on your preference for half or full-day trips.

Is snorkeling equipment provided?
Yes, new snorkeling gear is included for all guests.

Are drinks included?
Yes, bottled water, soda, and beer are part of the package.

Do I need to tip the crew?
Tipping is not included but generally 15-20% is customary for good service.

Are there extra costs I should know about?
Fuel surcharges may apply (billed at $8/gal), and visiting the BVI is an optional extra.

Is the tour suitable for families with young children?
Most travelers find it family-friendly, especially at calmer beaches with shallow waters.

What happens in bad weather?
The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This private boat trip combines the best of the Virgin Islands: stunning scenery, vibrant marine life, and the freedom to explore on your own terms. Perfect for those who want a memorable, flexible, and fun day on the water.