The Best Boat Rentals in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Most private charters in the Us Virgin Islands start around $200–$400 per hour for standard powerboats and sailing catamarans, with half-day trips commonly totaling $700–$1,200 and full-day outings $1,200–$1,800. Luxury motor yachts for celebrations often run from about $3,000 to $6,000+ per day. Your rate usually includes a licensed captain when booked as a captained charter, basic snorkel gear, a cooler with ice and drinking water, and safety equipment. Fuel is sometimes included on sailing trips but is frequently charged separately for powerboats, and taxes and gratuity are typically extra. Exact inclusions vary by listing, so review the details before you book.

You’ll find a wide mix to match your group and vibe, including center consoles and deck boats for fast island-hopping, sailing catamarans and monohulls for relaxed cruising and snorkeling, sportfishing boats for offshore runs, and larger motor yachts for upscale parties and milestone events. If you’re planning a big group day, look for spacious power catamarans or sailing cats configured for social space and shade.

Most visitors choose a captained charter so the local pro handles navigation, anchoring, and safety while you focus on the day. Experienced boaters can request a self-operated (bareboat) rental on select vessels, but owners will expect a strong boating resume and may require a security deposit. For licensing, the Us Virgin Islands requires a boating safety education card for personal watercraft riders and for operators ages 14–18; adult operators of standard motorboats or sailboats are generally not required to hold a formal license, but each owner sets their own experience requirements. Always check the specifics in the listing.

On St. Thomas, common departure points include American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook on the east end, Yacht Haven Grande in Charlotte Amalie, and Crown Bay Marina near the airport, with some trips also leaving from Sapphire Beach Marina. On St. John, many captains meet guests in Cruz Bay. If you’re on St. Croix, popular launch points include the Christiansted boardwalk and Green Cay Marina. Your captain will confirm the exact pickup spot and parking tips after booking.

Expect turquoise coves, palm-fringed beaches, and excellent snorkeling. Around St. John, calm bays in the national park often deliver sea turtle sightings over seagrass beds. St. Thomas trips can cruise past historic Charlotte Amalie Harbor and out to offshore cays for reef snorkeling. From St. Croix, boats commonly visit the protected waters near Buck Island Reef National Monument for coral gardens and an underwater trail. Wildlife is part of the magic—turtles, rays, reef fish, and the occasional dolphin—so bring a reef-safe plan for sun protection.

Yes—families are welcome, and captains carry U.S. Coast Guard–approved life jackets in a range of sizes. By territorial law in the Us Virgin Islands, children under 17 must wear a life jacket while a recreational vessel is underway unless they are below deck or in an enclosed cabin. Let your captain know the ages and sizes of any children when you book so they can prepare the right gear and recommend kid-friendly itineraries with calm water.

Most boats allow you to bring your own snacks, picnic items, and beverages, and many provide a cooler with ice and bottled water. Some captains can arrange catering or pre-stock your cooler on request. For everyone’s safety, glass is often discouraged on deck, and moderation with alcohol is important—your captain has the final say if anyone’s safety might be affected.

Pets are permitted on some boats with prior approval, often limited to small or medium dogs and sometimes with a cleaning fee. If your pet is joining, pack a non-slip mat, fresh water bowl, waste bags, and a pet life jacket if you have one. Be sure to mention your pet in your inquiry so the owner can confirm suitability and any restrictions.

The tropics see quick sun-and-squall cycles, steady trade winds, and calmer seas in the morning. Hurricane season runs June 1 through November 30, with the most active months typically August–October. Captains continuously monitor marine forecasts and may adjust routes or departure times for comfort and safety. Cancellations and refunds follow the policy on each listing (often Flexible, Moderate, or Strict). If the captain deems conditions unsafe, most operators will reschedule or refund per their policy; if conditions are safe but not perfectly sunny, trips usually proceed.

Absolutely. Many boats are set up for celebrations and can help with playlists, decorations, and catering add‑ons. Most captained day boats in the Us Virgin Islands are licensed for up to 12 guests, while smaller vessels may be limited to 6. Share your headcount, preferred vibe (chill cruise vs. high‑energy sandbar day), and any must‑do stops when you inquire so your captain can tailor the route and recommend the right boat.

December through April is peak season for clear skies and breezier, cooler days—great conditions but higher demand and pricing. May through July often brings warm, calm water and lighter crowds. Late summer and early fall can deliver great visibility and deals, though it overlaps with hurricane season. On the calendar, boats book up fast around Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day. Popular local events also drive demand—St. Thomas International Regatta in late March, St. Thomas Carnival in late April/early May, St. John Celebration leading into July 4th, and the Crucian Christmas Festival from late December into early January. For smoother seas and easier parking, aim for weekday mornings; afternoons are windier and weekends are busier at favorite bays.

Pack sun protection (reef‑safe sunscreen, hat, sunglasses), a towel, swimwear, a light cover‑up, and a phone in a waterproof pouch. If you plan to snorkel, most boats provide masks and fins, but feel free to bring your own. For peak season and holiday weeks, book 3–6 weeks ahead; for shoulder season weekdays, 1–2 weeks is often fine. After you send an inquiry with your dates, group size, and preferred pickup area, you’ll receive a firm offer to review and complete your secure payment.

If you’re on St. Croix, a trip to Buck Island Reef National Monument is a standout for protected coral and an underwater snorkeling trail—these trips usually depart from Christiansted or Green Cay. From St. Thomas and St. John, captains often anchor in sea‑turtle‑friendly bays, visit offshore cays for reef snorkeling, and time a sunset cruise past Charlotte Amalie’s historic harbor lights. Ask your captain about calm‑water turtle spots, scenic lunch stops, and timing your day to catch golden‑hour photos on the way back.