Things to do in Cruz Bay, St. John: The Best Private Tours

January 22, 2022 Marianna Hollaway

St. John’s vibrant main town and port, Cruz Bay is home to most of the 28-square-mile island’s restaurants, bars, stores and dive centers. Two-thirds of affluent St. John is a national park, and many safari buses and jeeps set out from Cruz Bay. Don’t miss local art and history at Elaine Ione Sprauve Museum or the pristine sand of Hawksnest Bay, popular with snorkelers due to its nearby reef. There is no airport; ferries connect the town of 2750 with other U.S. and British Virgin Islands.
Restaurants in Cruz Bay

1. National Park & Surrounding Cays Sunset Sail

Morningstar Sailing and Power Charters
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5.0 based on 8 reviews

Sail the beautiful and calm protected waters of the Virgin Islands National Park aboard your private and all inclusive sailboat. We are a classic sailing company that wants you to experience the purist's art of sailing while enjoying the surrounding scenery, fresh air, open bar and light fare.

Inclusions: We offer a full and open bar for the duration on the sail as well as light fare

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Reviewed By junktrunkjilly

Captain Mike was so awesome! We couldn't have asked for a better experience ! He answered all of my odd/curious questions- showed us some amazing places to snorkel! He told us a lot of funny stories, and aside of being a great captain, he may be an even better bar tender! I Wish we could go back once a week!

2. Luxury Private Day Charter

Cruz Bay, St John 00830, USVI Love City Excursions
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

Our boat, Silver Coral, is an Aquila 36 with ample space and seating for up to 12 passengers. With a high end full bar, breakfast, afternoon snack and more included this is the best boat for The Best Day of Your Vacation !

Inclusions: Full high end bar featuring all your favorite Caribbean cocktails, Catered breakfast of fresh pastries and fresh fruit awaits onboard, Use of Snorkelling equipment, Fuel surcharge

Exclusions: Lunch, Gratuities, Customs fees for the BVI are NOT included

Reviewed By K4297DHbrents

We told Captain Jeremy we wanted to sea turtles, and he delivered. Awesome tour around the island of St. John to include snorkeling with sea turtles and along a wonderful reef on a small island off of Saint John. Super fun and the “painkillers” were very tasty. Highly recommend for anybody with kids. Thanks Captain Jeremy!

3. Virgin Islands Full-Day Private Charter

Cruz Bay, Cruz Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands Love City Excursions
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5.0 based on 3 reviews

US Waters Only Trips are perfect for avid snorkelers who want to explore more of the US Virgin Islands by water. Your captain will advise you of the best locations to snorkel depending on the wind and sea conditions, and will tailor the day to fit your needs from there on out. Our trips are 100% customizable but we love snorkeling at Lovango Cay, Watermelon Cay and many more. A great stop for lunch is the popular taco bar, Lime Out, and we like to finish the day floating at a secluded beach with a cocktail in hand!

Inclusions: Local guide, Private tour, Local rum drink the Painkiller is included on all charters, Bottled water, Use of Snorkelling equipment

Exclusions: The listed price does not include a fuel surcharge, payable at the end of your trip. The fuel surcharge is required by our local supplier and is not within our control and varies between USD $150-$300 per group, Lunch, Food and drinks, Gratuities

Reviewed By K4297DHbrents

We told Captain Jeremy we wanted to sea turtles, and he delivered. Awesome tour around the island of St. John to include snorkeling with sea turtles and along a wonderful reef on a small island off of Saint John. Super fun and the “painkillers” were very tasty. Highly recommend for anybody with kids. Thanks Captain Jeremy!

4. Local History, Beach & Fun in the Sun Four Hour Private Island Tour!

Saint John Ferry Terminal, Cruz Bay, St John 00830, USVI Star Fish Tours & Taxi
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5.0 based on 5 reviews

• Star Fish Tours & Taxi's Four Hour Island Tour is a combined historical and beach tour that last for four hours.  • We meet you at the Loredon Boynes Ferry Terminal with a sign that says "Star Fish Tours & Taxi Services".  • Your  safari will also have "Star Fish Tours & Taxi Services written on them.  • You get to experience not just the natural beauty of St. John but also learn of our history, culture, and visit historical ruins. • Our tour guides are friendly, local and humorous! 

Inclusions: Beverages, Bottled water, Driver/guide, Local guide

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Lunch, Gratuities

Reviewed By SkyDonkey

Hibiscus at StarFish Tours helped us arrange a very lastminute half-day private tour with a local driver, Douglas. We appreciate all the assistance, recommendations, and follow-up she provided as we were able to visit the National Park Visitor Center, Trunk Bay, Maho Beach, and the Annaberg Plantation Windmill the day before leaving the island. Douglas was very informative, accommodating, and professional and we essentially customized and made for a hop on/hop off tour.

5. Private Four Hour Historic/Beach Tour with Star Fish Tours & Taxi

Cruz Bay, St John 00830, USVI Star Fish Tours & Taxi
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5.0 based on 30 reviews

Your Private Four Hour Tour offers the best of both worlds.  You get the history of St. John, visit our historical sites and also get to enjoy, swim, sunbath and or snorkel at two of our most beautiful beaches.  Our guest get to interact with their driver/tour guide.  There will be refreshing drinks for the duration of the tour.

Inclusions: Beverages, Bottled water, Local guide, Hotel pickup and drop-off (selected hotels only), Private tour

Exclusions: Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase), Lunch, Gratuities

Reviewed By SkyDonkey

Hibiscus at StarFish Tours helped us arrange a very lastminute half-day private tour with a local driver, Douglas. We appreciate all the assistance, recommendations, and follow-up she provided as we were able to visit the National Park Visitor Center, Trunk Bay, Maho Beach, and the Annaberg Plantation Windmill the day before leaving the island. Douglas was very informative, accommodating, and professional and we essentially customized and made for a hop on/hop off tour.

6. Private Full Day, Fun Day Aboard SY Mazu - Luxury Gemini Legacy 35 Catamaran

Red Hook, St Thomas 00802, USVI Seas the Day Charters and Tours
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5.0 based on 4 reviews

An island tradition, Full Day-Fun Day aboard SY Mazu makes lasting memories. MY Mazu is a Gemini Legacy 35 sailing catamaran and she is fast and fun. SY Mazu will whisk you from Red Hook to destinations of your choice throughout St. Thomas and St. John. SY Mazu is a private charter with an ideal capacity for 6-8 guests. She is licensed for up to 12 guests, but please call in advance if you have greater than 8 guests. Spend time at the legendary Honeymoon Beach at Caneel Bay where the now world famous Pain Killer flows freely. Or, stop by Pizza Pi where sailors have enjoyed great food, drink and music. SY Mazu is a 2016 Gemini Legacy 35 sailing catamaran with twin Yanmar engines. The bow offers relaxing seating for conversations, breezy tanning or turtle and dolphin watching. Equipped with the latest in audio technology, she has a Sony sound system with Bluetooth to enjoy your favorite tunes. There is plenty of snorkeling equipment on board to enjoy the crystal blue waters.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Soda/Pop, An assortment of beer, Use of Snorkelling equipment

Exclusions: Gratuities

Reviewed By R6402DQkaylat

This was the best money I have spent on vacation!! Definitely do the whole day trip and make sure to bring lots of sunscreen. We had a group of 12 on the catamaran and our crew made sure all of our accommodations were met and more! We got to visit other beautiful islands and they took us to the best spots for snorkeling where we were able to see lots of sea life. Captain Splash and first mate Osay were absolutely outstanding and made sure we had the time of our life. Our first mate gave many tips and fun facts about the island, landmarks, and history which was very interesting, and also made sure we always had a drink in our hand and a smile on our face. I would definitely recommend booking with seas the day and will absolutely be back again!!

7. Private Boat Charter to the US and British Virgin Islands

One Love Charters, Compass Point Marina, 6300 Estate Frydenhoj, Slip 33, St. Thomas, Virgin Islands 00802, USVI One Love Charters
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5.0 based on 37 reviews

With One Love Charters, it’s more about the journey than the destination! Owners Joe and Amanda Trattner are self-proclaimed travelers who moved from the mainland in search of adventure and new opportunity. They learned the local way of life, and the amazing destinations that the British/U.S. Virgin Islands have to offer, and would love to share their expertise with you during your travels. Joe and Amanda are truly passionate about their little chain of islands and want to make sure that by the end of your day with us that you’ll have memories to last a lifetime. Come experience a private, customized trip with us!

Inclusions: Use of Snorkelling equipment, We provide ice, and bottled water. We can arrange to pick up additional provisions, snacks or beverages for you at cost. Saving you the the time from having do the the shopping yourselves ;), Noodles, floats, life jackets, balls and sand toys , Bluetooth sound system. Bring along your own play lists if you would like!

Exclusions: Fuel surcharge, Customs/ Immigration Fees (only when visiting the British Virgin Islands), Gratuities, There are some great lunch options we can bring you to!

Reviewed By Byonca

I couldn’t have asked for a better experience and day on the water! Captain Val, Amanda, and the whole One Love crew are amazing! So accommodating and helpful from beginning to end recommending spots for us to see and places to eat/drink etc. I’ve booked other charters in the VI for past trips but will only be booking with them going forward! Can’t wait to come back and do it again!

8. Full Day Private Boat Charter exploring the "Best of the USVI"

Just Fish St. John, 1300 Cruz bay creek, Cruz Bay, St John 00830, USVI Island Roots Charters
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5.0 based on 360 reviews

The U.S. Virgin Islands are an unforgettable boating paradise! - Crystalline waters, secluded beaches, superb snorkeling, floating restaurants and exotic beach bars are yours for the choosing. With virtually unlimited possibilities, you’ll have no problem creating the best day of your vacation! - Our captains have years of experience (some even a lifetime!) around the local waters and will be able to provide valuable insight to your day. The possibilities are endless . . . we know all the best places to go, things to do, and spots to eat and drink! - Join us and become a part of the Island Roots family. We are always In the Pursuit of Fun!

Inclusions: Captains fee, Comfortable cushioned seating in shade or sun, Complementary snorkel equipment for all sizes, Cooler stocked with ice and bottled drinking water, Dry storage for you gear, Ladder and swim platform for easy water access, State of the art bluetooth stereo system onboard, U.S. Coast Guard approved safety equipment

Exclusions: Fuel: billed at the end of the trip depending on the destinations you visit. Your typically fuel expense is between $75-$175 but can vary based on how far you go., Gratuities for your captain are greatly appreciated; industry standard is generally 15%-25% of the charter fee, Money for lunch and other souvenir shopping expenditures, ADDITIONAL $50 per person passenger fee over SIX PASSENGERS

Reviewed By ekd1021

My husband and I booked the sunset charter this past week and had a wonderful time. The trip was awesome! The boat was spacious and super clean. Our captain, Ryan, did a great job finding out what we wanted out of our trip and then suggesting some great spots for snorkeling, dinner, and watching the sunset. We both agreed that it was the highlight of our visit to St. John. We will definitely plan to book another full day charter with Island Roots on our next visit.

9. Private Boat Excursions around the US and British Virgin Islands

Virgin Islands National Park Service Headquarters, St John 00830, USVI Big Blue Excursions
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5.0 based on 174 reviews

Explore the Virgin Islands on your own Private Boat!  "Gypsea Girl" is a 31 foot Grady-White Bimini equipped with twin 2016 300hp Yamahas.  With a cruising speed of 30 knots, she is fuel efficient and quiet.  She has extremely ergonomic seating, so there's always a great place to sit to enjoy the sunshine, the shade, or the beautiful views.  "Gypsea Girl" has a tower, which is awesome for jumping off and a great way to see everything the Virgin Islands has to offer.  Our trips are completely customizable, so you choose what you want to do.  If you're unsure about where to go or what to see, our captains know the area well and will take you out on the best trip of your vacation!  All excursions include your Private Boat, Captain, Snorkel Gear, Bluetooth music hook up, Canned beverages (soda, beer, water and ice), lots of extras and good vibes. 

Inclusions: Captain, Private tour, Bottled water, Cooler stocked with ice, assorted soft drinks, and beer, Use of Snorkelling equipment, Floats, Fresh water rinse, Alcoholic Beverages

Exclusions: The listed price does not include a fuel surcharge, payable at the end of your trip. The fuel surcharge is required by our local supplier and is not within our control. We start the day with a full tank of fuel so you only pay for what you use on your trip. Depending on your chosen destinations prices can vary between $80-$350., BVI Customs fees ($70 per person) - If you choose to go to British Virgin Islands, Lunch, Gratuities

Reviewed By gracegduffy

This is the 3rd time we have been to St. John's,and this was the best charter, by far.There are 6 people in our family.Derek and Jenna spent the whole trip attending to our individual needs, and they exceeded all expectations.Don't miss it!

10. Private Boat Charter to British Virgin Islands from St John

Cruz Bay, Cruz Bay, St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands Love City Excursions
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5.0 based on 55 reviews

Exploring the British Virgin Islands by boat will allow you to fully enjoy the beauty of the natural playground that is the Virgin Islands. Once you clear into British customs, (yes you will get a passport stamp) the day is yours to spend snorkeling, beach hopping, bar hopping, or just simply relaxing and enjoying the laid back pace of life. The boat, CatZilla, is the largest small passenger vessel on St. John which lends comfort, stability, and ease for your day on the water.

Inclusions: Bottled water, Local guide, Use of Snorkelling equipment, Private tour, Local rum drink the Painkiller is included on all charters

Exclusions: The listed price does not include a fuel surcharge, payable at the end of your trip. The fuel surcharge is required by our local supplier and is not within our control and varies between USD $150-$300 per group, BVI customs fee (USD $75), Drinks, Food and drinks, Lunch, Gratuities

Reviewed By K4297DHbrents

We told Captain Jeremy we wanted to sea turtles, and he delivered. Awesome tour around the island of St. John to include snorkeling with sea turtles and along a wonderful reef on a small island off of Saint John. Super fun and the “painkillers” were very tasty. Highly recommend for anybody with kids. Thanks Captain Jeremy!

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