🌴 US Virgin Islands Slow Season: What to Expect for Boat Tours & Charters

A quiet day at White Bay

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the US Virgin Islands without crowds, calm waters, and more personalized adventures – there’s a perfect time for it. It’s called slow season, and while it might sound like a time to avoid, it’s actually one of the best-kept secrets for boating, snorkeling, and relaxing.

As a local boat tour company, we know firsthand how magical this time of year can be – and what to expect. In this guide, we break down exactly what the US Virgin Islands slow season means, what’s open, what’s closed, and why this is still a fantastic time to book a boat tour or private charter.

🗓️ When Is the Slow Season in the US Virgin Islands?

The slow season typically runs from mid-August through mid-November in the USVI (St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix) and the British Virgin Islands.

This period falls between the summer rush and the start of the holiday/winter high season, meaning:

• Fewer tourists

• Lower prices

• Less boat traffic

• A more relaxed island pace

🚤 What’s It Like on the Water During Slow Season?

For boating? Honestly, it’s paradise.

• Calmer waters and warm temperatures make it ideal for snorkeling and swimming

• Less crowded anchorages mean a more peaceful experience

• You get more personalized service and itinerary flexibility on private charters

• Sunsets are just as stunning, and you won’t be fighting for the best view

In short, the slow season in the US Virgin Islands offers a slower pace – in all the best ways.

St. John as seen from 5 miles offshore on a really calm day!

🍹 Closures at Popular Boat-Access Spots (What to Know)

One of the few drawbacks during the slow season is that some boat-up beach bars and restaurants close temporarily – especially in September and October. Here's what you can expect:

🚫 In the USVI:

• Pizza Pi (Christmas Cove) – Closed August 1 to mid-November

• Lime Out (Coral Bay, St. John) – Closes August 15 to October 12

• Dinghy’s Beach Bar (Water Island) – May operate on limited hours or close for maintenance

🚫 In the BVI:

• Soggy Dollar Bar (Jost Van Dyke) – August 24 to October 4

• Hendo’s Hideout (Jost Van Dyke) – Closing most of September – October 2 (open Friday, Saturday, and Sunday the last 3 weeks of September)

• Pirate’s Bight (Norman Island) – Closed August 1 to early October

• Willy T (Norman Island) – Hasn’t posted any closure…yet

• Many smaller beach bars and day stops may also scale back operations

👉 Pro Tip: Our captains know exactly what’s open each week and will adjust your itinerary so you still get a full, unforgettable day on the water – even if the tacos and painkillers have to wait for high season.

🌴 The Perks: Why You Should Book a Boat Tour in Slow Season

Despite the closures, this is still one of the best times to explore the Virgin Islands by boat, especially for travelers who value peace, nature, and personal experiences over party scenes.

Here’s what makes it great:

✅ Shorter Customs Waits for BVI Charters

With fewer boats crossing between the USVI and BVI, customs and immigration are much quicker – giving you more time to explore places like The Baths, Norman Island, or White Bay.

✅ Iconic Spots Are Quiet & Peaceful

One of the biggest benefits of slow season? Few to no cruise ships. That means normally crowded places are blissfully quiet:

• Trunk Bay (St. John) – Parking spots and room to stretch out

• The Baths (Virgin Gorda) – You can enjoy the boulders and caves without rushing or crowds

• Maho Bay – Calm and uncrowded

These world-famous locations feel like hidden gems when cruise passengers aren’t flooding in daily.

A deserted cathedral room at the Baths, Virgin Gorda!

✅ Lower Prices & More Availability

• It’s easier to get last-minute bookings

• Flights and accommodations are often significantly cheaper

✅ No Minimums. No Cancellations. Just Your Private Trip.

One issue with traveling during the off-season? Some larger public boat tours cancel last-minute if they don’t meet their minimum passenger count – a common risk in the slow season.

But not with us.

We specialize in private charters only, which means:

• No minimum number of guests required

• No last-minute cancellations due to low turnout

• You get a guaranteed, personalized experience every time

Whether it’s just two of you or a full private group, we go out – because we’re going just for you.

💡 Smart Travel Tips for Slow Season in the Virgin Islands

To make the most of your US Virgin Islands slow season boat tour, keep these tips in mind:

• Pack your own snacks/lunch (please let your captain know that you’re planning on bringing lunch)

• Bring bug spray – it’s greener this time of year, and mosquitoes are more active

• Stay flexible – weather and closures vary, and we’ll adjust your trip accordingly

• Book private charters for the most freedom and personalized experience

• Ask us what’s open – we’ll always give you the real-time scoop

⚓ So… Is the Slow Season Right for You?

If you’re dreaming of busy beach bars and nightlife, this might not be your time.

But if you’re looking for:

✅ Peaceful waters

✅ Fewer crowds

✅ Breathtaking scenery

✅ Hidden beaches

✅ Calm customs crossings

✅ Better value for your travel budget

…then slow season in the US Virgin Islands might be your dream trip – just with fewer people in the background.

🚤 Ready to plan your boat tour during USVI’s slow season?

Explore our private charters and daily boat tours »

Experience the islands the way they’re meant to be – private, peaceful, and entirely your own.

Experience the magic of having the Baths (almost) all to yourself!

📸 All photos courtesy of Sara Richter 📸