How many people fit on the boat?

The charter accommodates up to 12 guests; pricing increases apply for groups over six per the operator’s policy.

Where do we meet the boat?

Meet at American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook (St. Thomas) or the NPS Visitor Center dock in Cruz Bay (St. John); exact pickup will be confirmed by the captain.

Will we see sea turtles?

Yes—Maho Bay, Scott Beach and Waterlemon Cay often have green sea turtles and hawksbills in the snorkeling zones, though sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Can we bring our own food and drinks?

Guests are typically allowed to bring drinks and snacks; confirm any alcohol rules with the captain when booking.

Is snorkeling gear provided?

Gear availability varies—bring your own mask and snorkel if you prefer a custom fit; operators can often supply basic fins and life jackets.

What happens in poor weather?

The captain monitors conditions and will reschedule or cancel for safety; contact your operator the day of the charter for updates.

Golden Hours: Sunset & Snorkel Private Charter Between St. Thomas and St. John | Boat Rental | Boat Tour

The "Golden Hours" Afternoon & Sunset Private Charter on the 32' World Cat offers a breezy, low-key escape across the turquoise water between St. Thomas and St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Launching from American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook or the NPS dock in Cruz Bay, this 2–3 hour late-afternoon cruise focuses on snorkeling, relaxed cruising along the north shore of St. John and finishing with a Caribbean sunset in places like Christmas Cove. Aboard Down Time, a 32-foot World Cat power catamaran, cushioned benches and a large shaded top make it easy to unwind while the captain picks a route tuned to wind and light. Typical stops run the gamut from Maho Bay and Scott Beach—both known for calm, clear water and frequent green sea turtles—to iconic Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay and Waterlemon Cay, where shallow coral reefs and seagrass beds support bright parrotfish and hawksbill turtles. If timing and tides align, the boat will drift into Christmas Cove for snorkeling and a chance to snag slices from Pizza Pi, the floating pizzeria that’s become a local evening ritual. What makes this charter special is the combination of short duration and flexible itinerary: it's light on logistics but heavy on marine encounters and island scenery. The National Park’s coastline shows exposed bedrock and fringing reefs rather than dramatic peaks, so the focus is on underwater topography—coral heads, sand channels and seagrass flats—plus wide, white beaches that feel private from the water. The late-afternoon light sculpts the shorelines and turns the sea a complex band of aquamarines that photographers prize. This outing suits small groups—maximum of 12—with optional drinking, floating, snorkeling and easy socializing. Because it's a private charter, the captain can tailor stops to your group’s energy: more swim time, or a longer sunset linger in a cove. Practical notes: departures are timed to local sunset (often around 6–7 PM depending on season); bring reef-safe sunscreen, a mask, and a light jacket for the breeze. Meeting varies by island—Red Hook parking or Cruz Bay’s National Park dock—so confirm pickup when you book. For visitors to St. Thomas or St. John who want a compact, memorable marine experience, this Golden Hours cruise is a polished, island‑forward way to see turtles, reefs and sunset without committing to a full-day charter. The trip is family-friendly and approachable for first-time snorkelers, but captains prioritize safety and will advise on currents and shallow reef zones; life jackets are available and crew will brief snorkel technique before each stop. Bookings are best made in advance during high season, and because the charter is private you can request music, refreshments, or a route that maximizes sunset views over nearby cays and open Caribbean horizons.

About Bonus Time Charters

Bonus Time Charters is a Red Hook, St. Thomas private charter operator specializing in customized boat trips in the U.S. and British Virgin Islands. The company provides half‑day and full‑day private charters, sunset snorkeling cruises, eco‑tour adventures, and bespoke island‑hopping itineraries. Departures originate from Red Hook with routes that commonly include St. John, St. Thomas, and BVI destinations such as Jost Van Dyke, Norman Island, and The Baths.

Each charter emphasizes hands‑on local navigation and guided snorkeling; guests can expect designated stops for swimming with sea turtles, snorkeling vibrant reefs, and visiting iconic beach bars like Soggy Dollar Bar and Foxy’s Tamarind Bar. Several full‑day options highlight well known snorkeling sites, wreck dives and landmark beaches, and shorter options focus on golden‑hour views, pizza deliveries from floating pizzerias, and relaxed sunset scenery. The fleet includes 29‑foot and 32‑foot power catamarans used for private bookings. Captains provide local knowledge about marine habitats, navigation, and island history to enhance the experience.

Bookings are offered as private charters, allowing groups to customize itineraries, activities and pacing. The company is featured on The Adventure Collective and is known locally for operating a range of day trips between the USVI and BVI, including both eco‑focused and leisure‑oriented options. Safety, local expertise, and flexible private itineraries define the service offering. Offerings include Golden Hours Snorkel & Sunset Cruise, Private Half‑Day Eco‑Tour & Guided Snorkeling Charter, Best of Jost Van Dyke private charter, and multiple full‑day USVI and BVI private charters. Bookings available year‑round by request online.