A fast boat turns island time into real freedom. This USVI private charter runs on the MV Aquarius (a 2019 31′ Wellcraft with twin 300hp Yamaha engines), so you can jump between harbors and beaches without spending the whole day stuck in transit. I also like the simple comfort touches, like bow seating for conversation and turtle-watching, plus a Fusion Bluetooth sound system to set the mood.

Next-level value here is the control you get. Your captain designs the day around what you want, and you can spend as much time as you want at each stop, with a common recommendation of about 1.5 hours per location so you’re not just hurrying through water views. And because snorkeling equipment is on board, you’re not scrambling to find gear after you arrive.

One thing to plan for: the boat is not an all-in price. Fuel is billed as actual use, listed at $150 per booking, so budget a bit more than the sticker price if you’re working from a strict total.

Key things to know before you pick a charter

• A 2019 31′ Wellcraft (twin 300hp Yamaha): built for speed and day-long island-hopping.
• Captain-designed timing: you set the vibe, and your captain builds a route that fits it.
• Snorkeling gear included: you can head straight into the water when the stop looks good.
• Bow seating + Fusion Bluetooth audio: easy way to keep everyone comfortable and happy.
• Drinks onboard: soda, water, and beer are included.
• BVI limits: some stops involving BVI aren’t available on this version of the trip.

Why MV Aquarius speedboats make USVI feel closer

This isn’t a slow sightseeing cruise. The Aquarius is a 2019 31-foot Wellcraft with twin 300hp Yamaha engines, and that matters because the US Virgin Islands are all about small differences in water color, shoreline mood, and snorkeling conditions.

I like that the boat setup encourages you to stay outside. The bow has seating that works for conversation, tanning, and that classic moment of scanning for turtles in the clear shallows. Add the Fusion sound system with Bluetooth, and it’s easy to keep the trip feeling like your own day instead of a formal tour.

Also, the charter is private for your group. That means you’re not negotiating for time at a beach or waiting for a big cluster to get everyone back on schedule. If your group has kids, people with different swim comfort levels, or anyone who just wants more time on the water, private is a real advantage.

Price that’s per boat group, plus one extra cost to budget

The headline price is $885 per group (up to 12 people). That’s not per person, so if you’re traveling as a family, a friend group, or multiple generations, the math can look a lot better than you’d expect when you compare it to group shore excursions.

Your money also covers the basics that are usually annoying on vacation. Snorkeling equipment is included, and you get soda, water, and beer on board. When I’m judging value, I look at what you’d otherwise have to rent or buy once you’re already out on the water, and this charter removes several of those friction points.

Now the one extra line item. Fuel is billed as actual use, listed at $150 per booking. I’d treat that as part of the realistic total cost, especially if you book a longer day (closer to 7 hours).

Private freedom on St. Thomas and St. John waters (with a real captain in charge)

This charter is designed around one simple idea: you shouldn’t have to accept a fixed set of stops. Your captain will design an itinerary that fits what you want to do—whether that’s lounging, snorkeling, or hitting a more lively beach scene like Maho.

You also get flexibility in how you use time at each stop. The trip guidance commonly recommends at least 1.5 hours per location, which is a helpful rule of thumb if you want more than one quick swim. With a private boat, you’re not locked into a “get on, get off, next stop” rhythm.

I’ve found that captain-led planning is especially useful in the Virgin Islands because conditions change fast. Even if you love a beach on paper, wind, water clarity, and crowd levels can shift through the day. A good captain can steer you toward the water that looks best in the moment.

Getting started at American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook

The pickup point is American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook, St. Thomas. The experience starts there and ends back at the same meeting point, so you’re not dealing with transportation chaos at the end of the day.

There’s also an advance-notice pickup option at Yacht Haven Grande in Charlotte Amalie. If you’re arriving by cruise or staying near town, this can save you time and stress, since the charter stays close to the marina zone.

One more practical detail: it’s noted as near public transportation, which can matter if you don’t have a private taxi lined up for the start time. For most people, the biggest “logistics” concern is simply getting everyone to the marina on time, especially when you have kids who need snacks and sunscreen before boarding.

Beach and bay lineup: how the day unfolds stop by stop

The charter is built around a sequence of named stops, and each one is designed for actual time in the water, not just a quick look. The schedule shown includes multiple locations, and the exact selection can depend on the duration you book (4 to 7 hours).

Here’s how the stops tend to work, and what each one gives you:

American Yacht Harbor (start point)

This is your launchpad. Plan on a quick, smooth start so you’re not wasting daylight before the fun part—snorkeling and beach time—begins.

Honeymoon Beach

This is a classic “time in the shallows” kind of stop. With a private boat, you can slow down for a swim, float, and turtle-watching from the boat or along the shore. Since Honeymoon Beach appears more than once in the route plan, you may get a second chance to match the conditions with how you feel later in the day.

Secret Harbour

Think of this as a place for calm-water time. The stop is listed with substantial time (about 1.5 hours in the plan), so it’s meant for real hanging out—swimming, snorkeling, and taking breaks without feeling rushed.

Brewer’s Bay

This one fits the “breaks between swims” style of day. If you want variety—moving from one bay feel to another—Brewer’s Bay is part of that pacing. It’s also a good option when your group wants scenic water time without committing to a longer hike or a crowded scene.

Magens Bay Beach (admission ticket included)

When a stop includes admission, it usually means you won’t have surprise costs later. Magens Bay also tends to be a favorite-style beach stop where you can expect more of a “swim, lounge, repeat” flow, especially with snorkeling gear available on the boat.

Sapphire Beach

This is another named beach stop that works well for people who want clear water time and an easy day on shore. If you’re traveling with mixed interests—some snorkel, some just watch and relax—this kind of stop is usually good at keeping everyone happy.

Coki Point Beach (admission ticket included)

Admission included here means less administrative friction. It’s also a strong match for snorkeling-focused time since the charter brings equipment onboard and the route plan gives you enough time to actually use it.

Lindqvist Beach (admission ticket included)

This stop is listed with admission included, which you’ll appreciate if you prefer to keep spending predictable. It also fits a “get back on the boat, then head straight to water time” approach.

Francis Bay

Francis Bay slots in as a mid-to-late day change of pace. If your group loves snorkeling and sea life, this stop matters because the trip plan allows longer time windows, which gives you multiple chances to swim when conditions are best.

Trunk Bay Beach (admission ticket included)

Trunk Bay is one of the stops that comes with an included admission ticket, so it’s a good value moment inside the day. It’s also a place people often associate with memorable snorkeling, so it’s well worth treating as a real focus stop instead of a quick stop-and-go.

Maho Bay Beach

Maho is the “party scene” option in the plan. If your group wants more energy—music, people, beach vibes—this is the stop that fits that mood. If your group prefers calm, you can still use it for short, planned time and then shift back to swimming and exploring.

A note on why you might see repeated stops

You’ll notice Honeymoon Beach shows up more than once. I see this as a smart way to protect your day against changing conditions, because water clarity and comfort can shift. Even in the same general area, a second visit can turn into either a bonus swim window or a longer lounge stretch.

Snorkeling gear onboard: what you can realistically aim for

Snorkeling equipment is included, and that’s the difference between a “maybe we’ll snorkel” vacation and a real snorkeling day. With gear already on board, you can jump in when you see the water looks inviting.

From the experience feedback, the strongest highlights tend to revolve around sea life sightings. I’m talking about things like sea turtles, sting rays, and even stories that include nurse sharks and dolphins when luck and timing line up. You shouldn’t treat any animal encounter as guaranteed, but the pattern of sightings is clear enough that you can plan your day with excitement rather than guesswork.

Some captains also bring you to spots that can include extra wow moments, like shipwreck snorkeling. If that’s your style, tell your captain what you want to see early, because the route planning starts with your preferences.

Practical tip that came up again and again: bring reef-safe sunscreen. If you care about the coral and sea life you’re coming to see, it’s the one item you’ll be glad you packed.

Food, music, and the small comforts that make a long day work

Drinks are covered: soda, water, and beer on board. That’s genuinely helpful because a 4 to 7 hour day can stretch your snack rhythm, especially if you snorkel in the middle and then want something easy afterward.

If you get hungry, plan ahead. One piece of solid advice: bring what you want to snack on, because you can work up an appetite after swimming. Some captains can also help with local food stops if that’s your preference, so you’re not stuck with only what you brought.

Music is handled too. The Fusion system with Bluetooth means you can bring your own playlist vibe. For families, that can be the easiest way to keep everyone in good spirits between swim stops.

COVID-free operations and sanitation steps

This charter lists specific health practices. Captains and crew are tested monthly through RayBiotech, and you’ll see them wearing Covid Free bracelets. Vessels are sanitized after each trip using established CDC and WHO guidelines.

Masks aren’t required since it’s primarily outdoors, though you can choose to wear one. If you’re traveling with health concerns, it’s worth noting that the program includes both crew testing and boat sanitation, not just general advice.

BVI limits: make sure your wish list matches this charter version

Not every version of a USVI boat day includes BVI. This one notes that some stops involving BVI are unavailable. If you specifically want BVI, you’ll need to book the separate BVI option listed as product code 111649P25.

That matters because it changes what your captain can plan. If BVI is a must-do, don’t assume you can add it during the day. Confirm it with the booking option you select.

Who should book this fast private boat day

This is a great fit if you want control. A private speedboat works especially well for families, friend groups up to 12, and people who care about snorkeling time more than check-the-box photo stops.

It also fits well for cruise port days when you want to avoid the “everyone together, same pace” feeling of larger shore excursions. Being private means you can tailor the stop order and time window so your group doesn’t feel rushed just because a ship’s schedule demands it.

If your group loves sea life and wants a day built around the water, this charter has the right ingredients: snorkeling gear onboard, bow seating for turtle watching, and a captain who designs the route around your interests.

Should you book USVI Private Boat Charters on MV Aquarius?

I’d book this if you’re looking for a day that feels like it belongs to your group, not a big group schedule. The combination of a fast 31′ Wellcraft, included snorkeling equipment, and drinks onboard makes it easier to turn a half day or full day into something everyone remembers.

I would not book it blindly if BVI is on your list, because this version restricts BVI-related stops. And I’d budget for the extra fuel line item, since that’s the only clear cost you should expect beyond the base price.

If the weather turns and the trip can’t run, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. Since the charter also allows free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, you have some flexibility to plan confidently.

FAQ

Is the $885 price per person or per group?

It’s the group price. The charter is listed as $885.00 per group, up to 12 guests, so you’re paying for the boat for your group rather than per person.

How long is the private charter?

The duration is listed as 4 to 7 hours (approx.), depending on the option you choose and how your captain structures the day.

Where do we meet the boat?

The meeting point is American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook, St. Thomas. The activity ends back at the same meeting point.

Can pickup be arranged closer to Charlotte Amalie?

With advance notice, pickup can also be arranged at Yacht Haven Grande in Charlotte Amalie.

What’s included in the price?

Included items are snorkeling equipment and soda, water, and beer on board.

Do we need to pay extra for fuel?

Yes. Fuel is billed as actual use, listed at $150.00 per booking.

Which stops include admission tickets?

Admission is listed as included for Magens Bay Beach, Coki Point Beach, Lindqvist Beach, and Trunk Bay Beach. Other listed stops show admission ticket free.

Can we go to the British Virgin Islands (BVI)?

Some stops involving BVI are unavailable on this option. If you want BVI, the data points you to book product code 111649P25.

What health and sanitation steps are in place?

The provider states captains and crew are tested monthly via RayBiotech and wear Covid Free bracelets. Vessels are sanitized after each trip using established CDC and WHO guidelines, and masks are not required because it’s primarily outdoors (though they can be worn if preferred).

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