ROAD TOWN BOAT TOUR FIELD GUIDE
Across Turquoise Horizons: A Full-Day Sail to Jost Van Dyke
A full-day excursion aboard a 55-foot catamaran that combines snorkeling in Virgin Islands National Park, a beachside stop at White Bay and the Soggy Dollar Bar, plus breakfast and an open bar on the return.
Across Turquoise Horizons: A Full-Day Sail to Jost Van Dyke.
Adventure brief
Across Turquoise Horizons: A Full-Day Sail to Jost Van Dyke
Set out from St. Thomas aboard a luxury 55-foot catamaran for an eight-hour passage through some of the Caribbean’s clearest water. The day pairs morning snorkeling on coral reefs in the Virgin Islands National Park with an extended beach stop at White Bay on Jost Van Dyke — home of the famous Soggy Dollar Bar — and finishes with refreshments and an open bar on the sail back.
The British Virgin Islands are world-renowned for their crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. Located in the Caribbean, Jost Van Dyke offers an authentic slice of island paradise that attracts adventurers and relaxation seekers alike. Cruz Bay Watersports stands out as a premier hub for unforgettable marine adventures, inviting visitors to experience the islands in style and comfort.
Their signature full-day catamaran trips aboard a luxurious 55-foot vessel combine scenic sailing with exhilarating snorkeling opportunities among the colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical fish. As the boat glides through turquoise waters, guests are treated to panoramic views of the islands’ rugged coastlines and secluded bays. One of the trip’s highlights is anchoring at the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, a historic spot with a funky, relaxed vibe, where travelers can sip on refreshing cocktails and enjoy local ambiance.
Cruz Bay Watersports is more than just a boat tour—it’s a comprehensive Caribbean experience. The itinerary includes a continental breakfast and an open bar during the return journey, ensuring a comfortable, fun-filled day. Their crew’s knowledgeable guides share insights about the local ecosystem and history, making each trip both entertaining and educational.
What makes Cruz Bay Watersports a standout is their commitment to personalized service and environmental awareness. They prioritize eco-friendly practices while showcasing the area’s natural beauty. Whether you’re an avid snorkeler, a curious adventurer, or simply seeking a scenic day on the water, this operation makes the most of Jost Van Dyke’s legendary charm.
Join them to discover the vibrant underwater world, pristine beaches, and vibrant local culture—an experience that truly captures the essence of these Caribbean islands.
Route Schematic
Route & Key Stops
A straightforward loop that pairs reef snorkeling with island customs clearance and a lengthy beach stop at White Bay.
Departure — The Ritz-Carlton, St. Thomas
Check in at The Ritz-Carlton and board the catamaran; a continental-style breakfast is served as you cruise the north shore of St. John toward the morning snorkel.
Morning Snorkel — Virgin Islands National Park
A reef stop for snorkeling among the coral systems that ring St. John and the surrounding park.
Great Harbor — Customs Clearance
The boat calls at Great Harbor to clear into British Virgin Islands customs before proceeding to Jost Van Dyke.
White Bay — Soggy Dollar Bar & Beach Time
Relax on one of the area’s celebrated beaches, play the Ring Toss, lounge in a hammock, swim or snorkel; guests 18+ may sample the famous Painkiller cocktail.
Return Sail — St. John and Back to St. Thomas
Enjoy a happy hour and a full open bar as the boat sails back toward St. John to clear U.S. customs and then returns to The Ritz-Carlton.
Passengers must carry a valid passport; boats are barefoot vessels though shoes are required to clear customs, and boarding is from the beach requiring wading through knee-deep water. All tours are weather dependent and operate only if minimum participant requirements are met.
What the day feels like
What the Day Feels Like
The trip unfolds as a balanced day at sea: a light continental breakfast as you cut along St. John’s north shore, a reef snorkel in the morning, customs clearance at Great Harbor, and then the long, lazy interval on White Bay where beach time and bar rituals take over. On the return, the tone shifts again to convivial sailing with a full open bar before clearing back into U.S. customs and returning to St. Thomas.
THE VESSEL
Luxury 55-foot Catamaran
Spend the day aboard a 55-foot sailing catamaran designed for stable, comfortable cruising between islands and reef stops.
THE WATER
Snorkel Pristine Coral Reefs
Morning snorkeling takes place on the coral reefs of the Virgin Islands National Park, where clear water and marine life are the focus of the first stop.
THE BEACH
White Bay & the Soggy Dollar Bar
A beachside layover at White Bay places you at one of the region’s renowned sandy stretches and the world-famous Soggy Dollar Bar for hammock time, swimming and island games.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this trip suits — and who should think twice.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
A valid passport is required; bring swimwear, sun protection and a change of clothes. The operator runs barefoot vessels, but shoes are required to clear customs.
Check in 30 minutes prior to departure at The Ritz-Carlton Resort, St. Thomas where the trip embarks.
The vessel is boarded from the beach, which requires walking through knee-deep water; all tours are weather dependent and subject to meeting minimum participant requirements.
The full-day trip lasts approximately 8 hours.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
Do I need a passport for this trip?
Yes. A valid passport is required for the excursion.
When should I check in?
Guests should check in 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.
Is snorkeling included?
Yes. The itinerary includes a morning snorkel stop at coral reefs in the Virgin Islands National Park.
Are there footwear rules on board?
The boats are barefoot vessels, but shoes are required when clearing customs.
How is boarding handled?
This vessel is boarded from the beach and requires walking through knee-deep water to get aboard.
Is alcohol available?
Yes. There is a full open bar on the return trip, and guests 18 and older can try the Soggy Dollar Bar’s famous Painkiller on White Bay.
How this guide was prepared
This field guide is synthesized using verified supplier specifications, route descriptions, and destination data. Some booking links may generate affiliate revenue for ADV Guides.
- Verified: 2026-08-26T20:47:40.451Z
Some booking links may generate revenue for ADV Guides or The Adventure Collective.
Availability, pricing, schedules and operating details can change.
Trip details and contextual sources were reviewed by ADV Guides Editorial.