answers to your questions
HOW DO I BOOK A PRIVATE CHARTER?
If you would like to book a charter you can either book online through our “Book” Page, or call us at 340-201-3045. Let also know where you are staying, and provide us with a contact number while you are traveling. We will then send you a confirmation email with trip details once your reservation is made.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Other than Weather or Travel related Issues we have a 48 hour cancellation policy for a full refund. Let's face it. The weather is sometimes against us. The good thing about the Virgin Islands is that we have a pretty constant breeze. This means that showers are isolated and tend to last from 5 to 15 minutes. Nothing serious. But occasionally a system stalls over the VIs and it just rains. Or sometimes strong winds whip the sea-state into something less than friendly.
Since your comfort and enjoyment are our primary concern, we don't want you to feel forced into something that may make you miserable.
Give us a call first, and we'll give your our opinion of what the day will be like. Rain or shine we'd love to show you a fantastic day. You won't be charged for last minute weather cancellations.
Can we go to BVI?
YES!! BVI trips are now available on “Gypsea King” and “Sweet revenge II”. PLease call to book one of these charters. Valid passports are Required. BVI Customs Fees are $80 per person and are subject to increases by BVI Government. Passport information must be submitted to Big BluE Excursions 2 days prior to trip date.
WHAT ARE THE POWERBOAT FUEL COSTS?
Gas will be different for every trip. Here are some rough estimates:
Trips around the USVI:
Pillsbury Sound & Outer Cays $150-$200
Circumnavigate St. John & Outer Cays $275-$325
North-side of St. Thomas $350-$400
Water Island and South-side of St. Thomas $350-$400
Circumnavigate St. Thomas $400-$425
Snorkel to Sunset Trips $125-$200
Trips around the BVI:
Trips around Jost Van Dyke: $180 - $250
Trips around Norman Island: $225 - $280
Trips with Jost and Norman Island: $275 - $375
Trips including The Baths: $375 - $475
Trips to North Sound, Virgin Gorda: $500 - $560
WHAT DO I NEED TO BRING?
Sunscreen NON-AEROSOL. PLEASE DO NOT USE THIS ON THE DAY OF THE TRIP. This is important for the environment and to keep the condition of the boats nice for you.
Beach Towel
Your snorkel gear, if you love it! We do have quality snorkel gear on board for you.
MP3 Player - if you want your own tunes.
Sunglasses and Hat
Money for lunch, feel free to bring additional beverages or snacks. We have a large cooler! We do have water, clean ice, soft drinks and beer for you.
What's included with a Powerboat Charter?
The charters include your private boat and Captain, snorkel gear, floats and a fresh water rinse. The cooler is stocked with complimentary ice, water, and a limited assortment of soft drinks and beer.
There is plenty of dry storage for your personal belongings.
Charters do not include fuel (powerboat only), BVI customs (if you go), and Captain's gratuity.
WHAT SUNSCREENS DO TO OUR CORAL REEFS
Spray sunscreen and many others are harmful to our slow growing, precious coral reefs and the life it supports. Each year between 4400-6800 US tons of sunscreen washes over the coral reef systems.
Please be sure not to use any aerosol sunscreen or bronzing lotions.
These are the dangerous ingredients many sunscreens contain: Oxybenzone (benzophenone-3) / 4-methybenzlidene camphor (4MBC) / Butylparaben / Octinoxate (Ethylhexyl methoxycinnamate)
A BETTER CHOICE are mineral based sunscreens with Titanium and Zinc Oxide
WHERE DO WE MEET?
St John - At the National Park Dock or Westin Resort beach - custom locations upon Request
St Thomas - At the Sapphire Marina. (Bulkhead Dock. There is a $150 dock usage fee, free parking). At the Ritz Beach in front of the Aquatic Center.
Lovango Resort - At the Resort Dock by the restaurant
Custom Locations Upon Request
HOTEL PICKUPS
The Westin Resort and the Ritz-Carlton resort are all free beach pickups for powerboat or sailing excursions by dinghy or wading out waist deep to the boat. These pick-up locations are for hotel guests only.
ARRIVING BY CRUISE SHIP?
Arriving on St Thomas and want to get away from the masses for a while? Spend a Half Day or Full Day out on a private powerboat. We'll take you where you want to go and get you back all in good time. If for some reason your ship doesn't make port in St Thomas, we'll give you a full refund.
Pickup/Drop-off at Sapphire Marina ($125 dock usage fee)
Is it customary to tip the Captain?
A 20% Gratuity is customary in the VI and appreciated for a job well done! A 20% gratuity is Included in all of our Sailboat Charters.