Question 1

Where are you located?

Accepted Answer

We sail out of our slip in Sapphire Beach Marina on the east end of St. Thomas (just 2 minutes past Red Hook). If you're coming from a cruise ship, plan for a 30 minute taxi ride. If you're driving, there is plenty of free parking at the marina.

Question 2

What should you bring?

Accepted Answer

The weather in the Virgin Islands stays relatively constant throughout the year with temperatures ranging from 75-85 °F. We recommend you wear a bathing suit, a cover up/shorts and shirt. Please wear comfortable non-slip footwear   Other items need include: Beach towels A good hat, preferably with a brim to shade your face Sunglasses You'll need reef safe, non-oil-based sunscreen with a high SPF rating.  We prefer non-aerosol sunscreens as the spray type makes the deck slippery. Camera Cash for souvenirs and tipping

Question 3

What do we provide?

Accepted Answer

An awesome sailboat A Great Captain Snorkeling gear (or bring your own) Great music Great food (prepared on board) & drinks An assortment of water toys. We also offer rain gear in the event that an afternoon shower pops up

Question 4

What times are the charters?

Accepted Answer

Full-day excursions start at 9:00 am and return at 3:30 pm (you can board as early as 8:30). Half-day excursions can start any time between 8:30am and noon and go for about 4 hours. These times can vary due to departure time and wind. Please check with us by phone, email or text.

Question 5

What if we're on a cruise ship?

Accepted Answer

We have guests from cruise ships all the time. One of the advantages of the small ship experience is the ability to adjust our schedule.  We work with you to make sure we can keep you on “ships time” and get you back with time to spare.

Question 6

​Do you provide transportation to and from the marina?

Accepted Answer

While we don’t provide transportation to the marina, we’re happy to help put you in contact with a knowledgeable local driver.

Question 7

What is a typical outing look like?

Accepted Answer

You will meet us at our slip in Sapphire Beach Marina. Having a slip in the marina makes boarding fast and easy. No tendering to your boat and no climbing ladders to depart. You can board as early as 8:30 am. After a quick safety briefing, we cast the lines and head out. If everyone is on-board early, we’ll get an early start. ​ On full day trips we will sail to St John and the St John National Park for some of the best snorkeling locations in the Virgin Islands. We usually try to hit two different locations with lunch served between stops. Our locations will be picked based upon the wind, weather and crowd conditions. Our goal is to stay away from the stops that are frequented by the cruise ship excursions. ​ We should be back in the marina by 3:30 pm ​ ​Half Day excursions can begin anytime from 9 am to Noon.

Question 8

What if there’s bad weather?

Accepted Answer

The Captain and staff constantly monitor the local weather and as long as it’s safe to operate, the captain will usually sail. If we are forced to cancel due to weather, you will be provide a full refund.

Question 9

Is it difficult to get on and off the boat?

Accepted Answer

As “Frances Anne” is moored in a slip, getting on and off is as a simple as stepping from the dock onto the boat.  When re-boarding from the water, we have a swim ladder and a walk-thru rear transom that makes boarding much easier than on many charter boats.

Question 10

Is this a private charter?

Accepted Answer

If your party is less than 6 people, there is a possibility that another group may join yours if they schedule the same day. If you prefer, you have the opportunity to reserve the entire boat for a truly private charter.

Question 11

Is this a booze cruise?

Accepted Answer

Although our guest enjoy an open bar while on board, we ask that everyone drinks responsibly on board and ashore.

Question 12

Do you accommodate Special Request?

Accepted Answer

Yes, just ask, it’s your day. We will entertain almost any request. Let us know if someone in your party is having a special occasion such as a birthday or anniversary and we will help make the celebration special.

Question 13

What if we've already gotten too much sun?

Accepted Answer

“Frances Anne” has a full dodger and Bimini, which makes the spacious cockpit very shady. If you’d like more sun, there’s plenty of space on deck. You can get as much or as little sun as you'd like on your adventure.

Question 14

Do you provide life jackets?

Accepted Answer

Yes, “Frances Anne” has a full complement of Coast Guard approved life jackets (including ones for children).  A complete safety briefing will happen prior to departure of all cruises on use and location of life jackets and other safety equipment.

Question 15

Can we help with the sails?

Accepted Answer

It’s your trip, if you would like to help with the sails or even take a hand at the wheel, we’re more than happy to teach you the ropes.

Question 16

How do we handle payment?

Accepted Answer

A 50% deposit is required at the time of booking. Final payment is due 48 hour prior to departure (unless you choose to pay the final in cash upon departure).  Payment can be made through our site, with PayPal or with Zelle. Contact us if you have any questions about other payment methods. We try to make it as easy on you as possible.  ​ Private charters also require a 50% deposit up front to reserve the date for your party, then we won't book anyone else on your day.  ​ Cancellations within 30 days of departure will forfeit the deposit. ​ Cancellations within 48 hours will be charged the full tour rate (as it very difficult to fill those spots at the last minute).  An exception will apply for travel delays, changes to your cruise ships itinerary or if we cancel due to weather issues.

Question 17

What about gratuities?

Accepted Answer

We never require tips, but they are certainly greatly appreciated.  All service staff and tours guides on the island work very hard and depend on gratuities as a part of their income.  Our crew works hard to make sure you have the best experience possible. A gratuity is a great way to show your appreciation for a great day on the water. ​ Additionally, word of mouth and social media are very important to us.  Please feel free to share your favorite photos on our Facebook and Instagram pages.  Positive TripAdvisor reviews are one of the best way to say thanks for a great experience.

Question 18

What do we do about seasickness?

Accepted Answer

While the Virgin Islands has some of best sailing in the world, your still on the water. If you're prone to seasickness, the best thing is to take appropriate medication the night before your charter.  We have some over-the-counter medicine on the boat, and plenty of ginger products and snacks to help settle your stomach.  The best thing is to stay up on deck, where you can see the horizon and have fresh air in your face.

Question 19

What days are you open?

Accepted Answer

We are happy to book your adventure any day of the week. Half the time, we don't even know what day it is. Welcome to "island time".

Question 20

​Do I need a passport?

Accepted Answer

No, all are trips will remain in the US Virgin Islands.

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FAQ's for a Day of Sailing & Snorkeling With Us

Virgin Island Daysailing