top of page
USVI_Cinnamon 02_edited.jpg

Frequently
Asked
Questions

Frequently Asked Questions About Private Boat Charters in St John, USVI

Planning a private boat charter in St John or the British Virgin Islands? Here are answers to the most common questions about meeting locations, what to bring, snorkeling, weather, and how to make the most of your day on the water with Blue Water Charters.

What should I bring on the boat?

Definitely bring

  • Towel

  • ​Sunscreen (reef safe lotion)

  • Hat and sunglasses

  • Passport (required for BVI trips)

  • $80 Cash per person (BVI customs fee)

Optional items

  • Snacks - chips, crackers, cookies, etc.

  • Boat drinks - we provide water and a few sodas

  • Your own snorkel gear if you prefer - adult gear is provided

  • Cash for lunch, souvenirs, drinks, and gratuity

Please DON'T bring

  • Spray sun screen

  • A cooler- we provide a large Yeti cooler with ice

  • Meat, cheese, fruits, or vegetables - these items may be confiscated by Customs

Where do I meet the boat?

Guests meet at the finger pier in front of the National Park Service building (unless other arrangements are made). To make boarding easy, drop off passengers and bags first, then park nearby. Once everyone is at the picnic tables under the pavilion or near the playground, send your captain a text. The dock is public and shared, so we only tie up long enough to board guests safely.

Is there parking at the National Park Dock?

There is no parking directly at the National Park Dock. However, several nearby options make access easy:

  • El Gissmo – Located directly across the street from the National Park finger pier, $50/day.

  • Lumberyard Parking Lot – A short one-minute walk. Both lots charge for parking, ~ $40/day.

  • Gravel Lot – About a 7–10 minute walk from the dock, $8/day.

These lots provide easy access for guests arriving for private St John charters or snorkeling trips.

Should I tip my captain?

Yes! Your captain works hard to ensure a safe, fun, and unforgettable day on the water. In the Virgin Islands, 18–25% gratuity is customary. Tips can be given directly in cash or via Venmo.

Is gas included?

No. We have a fuel meter on board and charge only for the amount of gas used during your charter, based on current St John fuel rates.

How many people can the boat hold?

Our boat is licensed to carry up to 8 guests, making it perfect for families, couples, or small groups looking for a private and personalized Virgin Islands charter experience. The base charter rate includes up to 6 guests. Additional guests (up to the maximum of 8) are welcome for $50 per person.

There are only two of us, can you find others to join us?

Your charter is private and fully customizable, so we don’t pair guests with others. Every group has different interests, and mixing them could limit the fun. You’re welcome to invite additional people to join, but we do not offer group or shared tours.

What's included with this trip?

Your trip includes a fully licensed captain and all required safety equipment. Onboard, you’ll also find:

  • Large Yeti cooler with ice, drinking water, and a few sodas (Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite)

  • SiliPint cups

  • Bluetooth stereo system

  • Adult snorkel gear, pool noodles, and ski jackets for flotation

  • Children’s flotation – we have a few jackets for kids to use for swimming

  • Freshwater rinse and dry storage

  • Complimentary dry bag for cell phones, wallets, or other valuables while swimming

Everything you need for a safe, fun, and worry-free day on the water.

What's NOT included with this trip?

Items not included on your charter are:

  • BVI Customs fee – $80 cash per person (if traveling to the British Virgin Islands)

  • Fuel

  • Snacks or drinks beyond water and a few sodas

  • Gratuity for your captain and any bartenders/servers

  • Children’s snorkel equipment – we recommend packing goggles for kids​

This ensures your group knows what to bring while we provide everything needed for a safe and enjoyable day on the water.

What time should we arrive for our trip?

Please arrive promptly at the National Park Finger Pier:

  • BVI trips: 8:00 AM

  • USVI trips: 8:30 AM

  • SunDowner Sunset Cruise: 3:30 PM

Once all guests are ready to board, please text your captain. Arriving on time helps ensure a smooth boarding and a full, relaxing day on the water.

Can we customize our itinerary?

Yes! Every charter is fully private and customizable. Let your captain know what kind of day you want – whether it’s snorkeling, beach hopping, bar stops, or a mix of everything – and your itinerary will be tailored just for you.

Are life jackets provided?

Yes! The boat is equipped with US Coast Guard–approved Type 1 life jackets for all guests. We also have a few Type 2 ski jackets for kids and adults, perfect for swimming or floating in the ocean. Safety is always our top priority.

Do I need to bring my own snorkeling gear?

No need! We provide adult snorkel gear onboard so you can dive right in. For kids, please bring goggles and fins if they have them, though we also provide a few flotation options for safety. Of course, you’re always welcome to bring your own gear if you prefer.

What if the weather is bad?

Safety is always our top priority. Your captain monitors conditions closely to ensure a safe and enjoyable Virgin Islands charter. Light rain won’t cancel your trip – most of the time, you’ll still enjoy your day on the water. If the weather makes a charter unsafe, we will reschedule or provide a full refund so you can have the best possible experience.

Can you pick us up or drop us off at a different location?

In some cases, yes! We offer a few alternate pickup options for your USVI or BVI private charter:

  • American Yacht Harbor (St. Thomas) – A convenient option for cruise ship passengers visiting the USVI for the day

  • High Tide (Cruz Bay) – We can sometimes anchor out front if space allows

 

We are also permitted a limited number of trips where we pick guests up in the BVI, explore the BVI, and drop you back off in the BVI.

 

However, USVI–BVI one-way transfers are not allowed. For example, we cannot pick you up in the USVI and drop you in the BVI, or vice versa. If you need a one-way trip between the islands, you’ll need to arrange a water taxi.

Ready for Your Virgin Islands Boat Adventure?

If you still have questions or you're ready to plan your private St John boat charter, we’d love to help.

 

👉 Explore our trips or book your charter today.

  • Facebook Social Icon
  • Instagram
  • Trip Advisor

©2026 Blue Water Charters VI

bottom of page
Book Now