THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Spend six hours aboard Izulu out of Compass Point Marina exploring reefs, hidden coves, and calm anchorages between St. Thomas and St. John. Small groups (max 10) and local captain knowledge make this an affordable, authentic Caribbean snorkeling day trip.
Spend six hours aboard Izulu out of Compass Point Marina exploring reefs, hidden coves, and calm anchorages between St. Thomas and St. John. Small groups (max 10) and local captain knowledge make this an affordable, authentic Caribbean snorkeling day trip.
Book with Happy Island Charters
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Happy Island Charters · Nazareth, St. Thomas
Compass Point Marina, St. Thomas USVI, is the launch point for a high-energy, small-group outing aboard Izulu, a 37' Intrepid powerboat that spends a full day carving through the turquoise between St. Thomas and St. John. For six hours you'll island-hop to three or four snorkeling stops chosen by the captain, float above branching coral and seagrass, and pull into hidden coves that skimp on crowds and deliver on marine life.
This public trip keeps groups to ten passengers, a size that feels private but social — perfect for families, friends, or solo travelers who want to swap stories and share a boat without the premium price. Expect to relax on a wide bow lounge, cool off from the swim platform, or drift on pool noodles over gardens of brain, elkhorn, and star coral. The operator supplies high-quality snorkel gear and ice-filled coolers; guests bring their own food and drinks for a picnic between stops. The captain's local knowledge is the trip's compass: timings and stops shift to chase calm water and visibility, so each cruise reads like a custom route through the British and U.S. Virgin waters.
Geologically the area is volcanic in origin with shallow fringing reefs and pockets of sand that form sheltered bays and swim-friendly anchorages. Look for mangrove fringes in protected coves and sea grass flats that feed juvenile fish and green sea turtles. Bird life includes frigatebirds loafing over the blue; underwater, parrotfish and sergeant majors add color to the reef.
Practically speaking, check-in at Compass Point Marina is 9:45 AM with a 10:00 AM departure and a 4:00 PM return. The trip runs about six hours and costs $125 per person. Space is small enough that the crew can coach snorkelers, help gear up, and manage equipment for mixed-ability groups. Accessibility is available by request — call to discuss needs ahead of time.
Why book this trip? It’s the combination of a high-performance boat and local seamanship that opens quieter reefs and coves that larger charters avoid. For visitors staying in St. Thomas or planning a day from neighboring islands, this day on Izulu is a concentrated, affordable way to sample classic Caribbean snorkeling, calm anchorages, and the convivial energy of a well-run public cruise.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen, a hat, quick-dry clothing, and water shoes for rocky landings. Novice snorkelers will appreciate the crew's guidance, and families with kids will find shallow coves that are protected on calm days. If you have your own mask or fins you prefer, bring them, but the onboard rental-quality gear is well maintained. Confirm weather and sea conditions the morning of departure; captains adjust routes for safety and visibility. Advance booking is recommended, especially in high season.
moderate.
6 hours.
Light to moderate fitness; comfortable getting on and off a small powerboat and able to swim short distances.
Check in at Compass Point Marina, St. Thomas USVI at 9:45 AM; departure is at 10:00 AM.
The excursion is approximately six hours with 3–4 snorkeling and swimming stops based on conditions and captain's choice.
Yes—high-quality snorkel gear and pool noodles are provided; you may bring your own mask or fins if you prefer.
No—guests bring their own food and drinks; the operator supplies large coolers filled with ice.
Maximum age listed is 99; minimum age is not specified. Accessibility can be discussed in advance—call the operator to confirm accommodations.
Take preventative measures before boarding—ginger, motion-sickness meds, choose a central seat near the boat's center, and ask the crew for tips.
The United States purchased the islands from Denmark in 1917; nearby Virgin Islands National Park on St. John protects reefs and shorelines.
Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching coral or taking marine life, and follow crew guidance to minimize anchor and fin damage to reefs.
Happy Island Charters is a private boat charter company based in Nazareth, St. Thomas, offering customizable day trips and sunset sails in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The operator focuses on small-group, private experiences that showcase nearby islands, beaches, and marine sites, including Cas Cay and routes around St. John National Park. The fleet includes a 15' RIB with a 70 HP Yamaha engine called the Happy Islander, a 37' Intrepid powerboat named Izulu with twin 300 HP Yamaha engines, and a classic sailing yacht used for sunset sails and full-day charters. Trip options include a private RIB excursion to Cas Cay with snorkeling in mangroves and short hikes; a private sunset sail with a curated menu featuring South Carolina shrimp and sparkling wine; and a full-day sailing charter with a gourmet Caribbean lobster lunch, premium drinks, snorkeling, and extended island exploration. Guests can expect high-quality snorkeling gear, comfortable seating on the yacht foredeck, and the company of Pedro, the sailing dog who joins many trips. Captain Fancy guides customizable itineraries on select trips, and a friendly crew supports onboard service. Charters emphasize private, tailor-made adventures for couples, families, and small groups seeking snorkeling, beach time, and scenic cruising. Reservations are available for private charters originating from Nazareth, St. Thomas, with options that accommodate half-day, full-day, and sunset departures. Booking information, pricing, and seasonal availability are provided upon inquiry; guests can request specific routes, dietary options, and snorkeling instruction when reserving to tailor each private charter to their preferences and needs.
Book with Happy Island Charters