Private Power Catamaran Charter to Snorkel with Turtles and Secluded Beaches in the Virgin Islands
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3.5–6.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to climb aboard, swim short snorkel distances, and move on a wet deck.
Overview
Board a private 32' power catamaran and spend a half or full day cruising the Virgin Islands National Park—snorkeling vibrant reefs, swimming with sea turtles, and beach-hopping to secluded coves with a local captain at the helm. This stable, shaded boat is built for comfort and exploration.
Private Power Catamaran Charter to Snorkel with Turtles and Secluded Beaches in the Virgin Islands
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A low hum of twin engines, a spray of salt at the rail and a deck that refuses to rock more than a degree — step aboard Shady Lady and the Atlantic rearranges the day for you. The 32-foot power catamaran slips out of Sapphire Marina or the National Park dock at Cruz Bay, and within minutes the shoreline of St. John releases its familiar silhouette: craggy granite, drifts of white sand, and the green that claims the hills. The captain runs a practiced eye along the reef map as if reading a weathered ledger; you choose whether to chase turtles or beaches, to linger over a coral garden or drift on a noodle with a cold drink.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Book morning departures
Mornings usually offer calmer seas and clearer water for snorkeling—plan an early start for the best visibility and turtle sightings.
Bring reef-safe sunscreen
Apply reef-safe sunscreen before boarding to protect coral ecosystems and avoid oily residue on rental masks.
Manage motion sickness proactively
If you’re prone to seasickness, take medication beforehand and position yourself mid-ship where motion is minimized.
Secure valuables and electronics
Use waterproof cases or leave valuables ashore; bring a dry bag for phones, cameras, and small items when swimming.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Green sea turtle
- Parrotfish
History
St. John’s coastline has layers of colonial history and pre-colonial indigenous presence; much of the island was later set aside as Virgin Islands National Park to protect reefs and shoreline.
Conservation
Visitors are asked to use reef-safe products and avoid standing on or touching coral; local charters follow park guidelines to limit anchor damage and overcrowding at sensitive sites.
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Adventure Hotspots in Cruz Bay
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Reef-safe sunscreen
Protects your skin and coral reefs—apply before boarding to avoid residue on masks.
Snug-fitting snorkel mask
While gear is provided, a personal mask ensures a better seal and more comfortable snorkeling.
Water shoes
Useful for rocky beach landings and protecting feet when entering or exiting shallow reefs.
Light windproof layer or cover-up
Keeps you warm on breezy mornings and protects from sun during open-water cruising.