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Private 6-Hour Island Hopping Charter in the US Virgin Islands — 500hp HydroSport - Cruz Bay, St. John

Private 6-Hour Island Hopping Charter in the US Virgin Islands — 500hp HydroSport

Cruz Bayeasy

Difficulty

easy

Duration

6 hours

Fitness Level

Light fitness required—participants should be able to climb aboard a small boat and swim short distances for snorkeling.

Overview

Throttle up, pick a route, and let a USCG-licensed captain craft a private six-hour day of reef snorkels, turtle encounters and deserted beaches aboard a 500hp HydroSport. Here’s what to expect and how to plan for the best day on the water.

Private 6-Hour Island Hopping Charter in the US Virgin Islands — 500hp HydroSport

Boat Tour
Sightseeing Tour

The engine thumps underfoot and the harbor peels away: coral-blue water opens, and a private 500hp HydroSport cuts toward a scatter of islands like glass beacons daring you to choose. In six hours, a captain with local charts and a sharp eye will stitch together reef snorkels, a turtle-crowded cove, a quiet sandbar and the kind of beach bar that makes you forget the clock. The ride is part speed, part slow drift—each stop a different rhythm of wind, current and shore.

Adventure Photos

Private 6-Hour Island Hopping Charter in the US Virgin Islands — 500hp HydroSport photo 1

Adventure Tips

Use reef-safe sunscreen

Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding and reapply sparingly; sunscreens with oxybenzone damage coral and are banned in protected areas.

Bring a secure dry bag

A small waterproof bag keeps phones, wallets and cameras safe during sharp turns or when jumping in from the hull.

Pack motion-sickness remedies

If anyone is susceptible, take pills or natural remedies at least an hour before departure—the HydroSport can reach high speeds offshore.

Carry small cash for beach bars

Some island beach bars and local vendors accept cash only; a little cash makes spontaneous stops easier.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Green and hawksbill sea turtles
  • Tropical reef fish and occasional southern stingrays

History

The islands bear colonial-era remains from Danish and British influence and a maritime history tied to sugar plantations; many wrecks off the coast have become artificial reefs.

Conservation

Coral reefs here are fragile—use reef-safe products, avoid touching coral or marine life, and follow captain guidance to minimize anchor damage.

Adventure Hotspots in Cruz Bay, St. John

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Reef-safe sunscreen

Essential

Protects skin and coral; required for snorkeling in fragile reef areas.

summer specific

Mask and snorkel (personal)

Essential

Using your own gear improves fit and comfort for longer swims.

Light waterproof dry bag

Essential

Keeps electronics and valuables dry during travel and swim stops.

Sturdy water shoes

Essential

Helps with rocky beach landings and scrambling on reef flats.

spring specific