Day Sails

Day sail operators typically take visitors to St. John [1] and the British Virgin Islands. Most serve lunch and drinks, and all provide snorkel gear and instruction if necessary. Most day sails cost between $100 and $120 per person for a full day, $60–90 per person for a half day. Sunset cruises are also offered.

The Winifred (340/775-7898) is a 43-foot wooden sailboat that takes a maximum of six passengers to St. John. The 50-foot Nightwind (340/775-4110 or 779-2877) provides breakfast, lunch, and an open bar to passengers on its day sail to St. John. Alaunt (340/771-8044) is another good option for small groups and families.

Sandspur (340/227-5825, www.sandspur.com [2]) takes up to 26 people aboard its 37-foot power boat on trips within the U.S. Virgin Islands and up to 12 to British Virgin Islands destinations including Jost Van Dyke [3], Tortola [4], Norman Island, Cooper Island, and Virgin Gorda [5]. Rates are $150 per person. For a more intimate trip, sign up with Ike Witt (American Yacht Harbor, 340/690-6244 or 340/626-9655, www.ikewitt.com [6]), which offers full- and half-day trips for up to six passengers aboard a classic Chris-Craft sail yacht.

If you’d like help making your day sail reservation, contact the Charter Boat Center (American Yacht Harbor, 340/775-7990, www.charterboat.vi [7]).