Questions guests most often ask when planning a day trip with Voodoo Charters.
Find your question underneath the common topics below, or simply scroll the page to find answers to common questions:
Boat Choice, Trip Types & Group Size
What is the difference between your two boats?
While VOODOO hosts both shared and private trips, VORADO is used only for private charters. Here’s a quick summary of each:
M/V VOODOO is a custom‑built 57‑foot power catamaran for up to 49 guests. It offers a smooth ride with roomy decks, shaded lounges, two bathrooms with changing areas, water stairs with handrails, and water swings.
Read up on M/V VOODOO
M/V VORADO is a 40‑foot World Cat 400DC‑X for up to 12 guests. It has sunny and shaded lounging areas, a bathroom, a large stern ladder for easy water access and dual sport engines for smooth and speedy travel.
Read up on M/V VORADO
What is the capacity of your boats?
- VOODOO accommodates up to 49 guests comfortably.
- VORADO can accommodate up to 12 guests comfortably.
We have a large group of over 50 guests… Can we all charter d a day trip together?
It is possible to combine both boats to host a group of up to 60 guests! As long as both catamarans are available for the date you are looking for, we are happy to accommodate this size group.
Do you host wedding celebrations, elopements, birthdays, or corporate events?
Yes! In fact, our team specializes in hosting large private gatherings and our boats are built for group comfort.
Private charters are frequently booked for weddings, elopements, birthdays, reunions, corporate outings, and any gathering that deserves a proper day of celebration.
Learn about our Private Excursions
What are private trips like?
Voodoo Charters’ private trips come in all shapes and sizes, from intimate outings to big celebrations. Enjoy the boat(s) exclusively with your group and customize your day’s itinerary. These day trips are ideal for a few small groups, big get togethers like wedding celebrations and business functions, and all other special events.
What is a private USVI trip like?
A private USVI trip is a seven-hour adventure exploring the pristine waters around St. John and St. Thomas. Since you stay in U.S. territory, there is no customs process, so we’ll get right to our first snorkel stop!
Your day will include a mix of snorkeling beautiful reefs where sea turtles are often spotted, perhaps swimming to secluded beaches, and plenty of relaxing onboard while the crew keeps you refreshed with a morning fruit platter and an open bar the entire trip.
Lunch can be enjoyed at unique floating restaurants like Lime Out or Pizza Pi, beachside at spots like Lovango Island, or with a sandwich spread served right on the boat.
Read more about a typical USVI pirvate charter with Voodoo Charters
What is a private BVI trip like?
A private BVI trip is an eight-hour journey across international waters into British territory, offering a fun island-hopping snorkel and beach adventure. We’ll handle Customs while you take a refreshing swim or simply settle into comfort on board.
Your day typically features world-class snorkeling near Norman Island, perhaps a stop at Willy T, and beach time on White Bay at Jost Van Dyke (and Soggy Dollar Bar, woo!). Fruit and snacks are provided, and you’ll enjoy an open bar the entire trip.
If you wish you may choose a trip to The Baths on Virgin Gorda to explore its dramatic granite boulders and natural grottoes. *
* Please note that on VOODOO, trips to The Baths become 9-hour trips. On VORADO, the trip remains 8 hours. Both catamarans do incur additional fuel fees.
Read more about a typical BVI private charter with Voodoo Charters
We are a couple visiting St. John. What’s our best option? What if I’m traveling solo?
Couples who want to socialize and keep costs down often choose a shared charter on VOODOO, which runs preset itineraries around the USVI or BVI.
For more privacy and flexible scheduling, a private charter on either VOODOO or VORADO offers a more intimate and bespoke experience.
I am solo and looking to do a day trip, but might bring a few more. What’s our best option?
Solo travelers or small groups typically join a shared charter on VOODOO to enjoy a preset itinerary and meet other travelers. You pay per seat and don’t need to book the entire boat.
Booking the entire catamaran, even solo or with a small group, is an excellent option too when you’re looking for exclusivity.
Do you offer half-day trips or sunset cruises?
Yes, from our primary departure locations we do — though we recommend a full day experience if you can swing it!
Departing from Cruz Bay, St. John, or Red Hook (American Yacht Harbor) on St. Thomas:
Private half‑day USVI trips (about 3½ hours) and sunset cruises (1½ – 2 hours) are available.
Half‑day trips include a snorkel stop and often a lunch stop at places like Lime Out make this from St. Thomas(from St. John) or Pizza Pi (from St. John or St. Thomas).
Sunset cruises last 1½–2 hours and include charcuterie and an open bar. Shared charters follow full‑day schedules.
Departing from St. Thomas Cruise Ship ports (WICO or CB):
We can often accommodate private, half-day USVI trips (about 3½ hours) with advance notice.
Sunset cruises are not available from these cruise port departure locations.
Half-day and sunset trips from other locations around St. Thomas (further from St. John than the cruise ports) are not available.
Do you offer overnight or multi-day charters?
No. Overnight or multi-day charters are not offered.
Guests, Safety & Accessibility
Are kids welcome on the day trip?
Of course, kids absolutely love these boats! We welcome all ages, families, and friends to hop on board.
Do you provide snorkeling gear and life jackets for kids? And adults?
Snorkel gear — Yes, and the crew will help get everyone fitted just right. We carry a range of youth and adult sizes. On all day trips we also provide pool noodles and swim belts for your comfort and safety.
Life jackets are carried on board for emergency situations only. We carry both kids and adults sizes. Please bring a life jacket your child is comfortable in if needed.
Is the boat accessible for seniors or guests with limited mobility?
VOODOO provides water stairs with handrails for easy boarding and exiting the water, which are helpful for guests with mobility issues.
VORADO has a large stern ladder for easy access.
However, both boats require stepping on and off from docks and may not be fully wheelchair‑accessible.
Do guests need to know how to swim?
No, guests do not need to know how to swim to enjoy the trip. There will be opportunities to wade in shallow waters, and you can absolutely just enjoy the comfort of the boat for the entire trip and still have an amazing day!
Note also that the Caribbean is salt water, making you very buoyant, and a pool noodle or swim belt may make you feel more comfortable as you swim/snorkel.
Can pregnant guests participate?
Yes, pregnant guests are absolutely welcome! While at times there are high winds and swells, our catamarans are designed for smooth, comfortable, and safe rides.
One of our travelers tends to get seasick. Is the ride smooth or rough?
Unless we are experiencing high winds and swell the ride will be smooth. Our Captains make every effort to find the calmest bays to swim and snorkel in.
If you tend to get seasick, a few things we’ve seen help (quite a bit):
- Take motion sickness medicine (we’ve seen Bonine or Dramamine Less Drowsy help some guests).
- Sit up towards the top of the boat with breeze in your face.
- Focus on a single point on land.
While seasickness is rare on our boats, these ideas do tend to help our guests combat the symptoms if they appear.
Destinations & Itineraries
Where do we go?
Private Charters
You choose the itinerary within range of St. John and St. Thomas.
USVI options include snorkel spots such as Maho Bay, Francis Bay, Trunk Bay, Waterlemon Cay, Lovango, Coral Bay with a stop at Lime Out, and Christmas Cove along with Pizza Pi.
When departing from St. Thomas, we’ll often do highlights such as Water Island and Buck Island, as well as Christmas Cove and nearer points of St. John like the north shore.
BVI options include Norman Island (The Indians, the Caves, Aquarium), Willy T, White Bay on Jost Van Dyke (including Soggy Dollar Bar!) and Virgin Gorda/The Baths.
Shared Charters
Itineraries are preset.
Our main USVI shared charter is the Laid‑Back Lime Out snorkel charter where you’ll circumnavigate St. John with snorkel stops along the way, and lunch at Lime Out once we come to Coral Bay.
For the BVI, we offer BVI Snorkel & White Bay on Jost Van Dyke trip where you’ll snorkel near Norman Island at spots like The Caves, The Indians, and Aquarium, then you’ll get to enjoy a solid stretch of beach time on Jost Van Dyke.
Can we customize our itinerary?
Most certainly! Private charters let you customize the itinerary, and we’ll work with you to get the day just right for you and your group. Pick‑up times, lunch stops or catering options, and destinations can all be customized. The captain will advise based on weather and sea conditions.
Our back office staff are always willing to discuss itinerary options at the time of booking. It’s always best to remain open minded as weather conditions can sometimes change plans.
Can we visit The Baths and Jost Van Dyke in the same day?
While not guaranteed on every BVI trip due to weather, sea conditions, and timing, with advance planning we can often combine the Baths at Virgin Gorda with a brief stop at White Bay on Jost Van Dyke.
Please note that Virgin Gorda itineraries on VOODOO extend to 9-hour days and incur an additional fuel fee. Private trips on VORADO to Virgin Gorda are 8 hours but do also incur extra fuel charges.
Can we visit Willy T’s, Norman Island, Sandy Spit, or Peter Island?
Norman Island (snorkel spots like the Indians, Caves and Aquarium) and White Bay on Jost Van Dyke are common BVI stops on private and shared trips with Voodoo Charters.
Stops at Willy T floating bar, Sandy Spit and Peter Island are certainly feasible for private charters if conditions and timing allow.
Can we go to Lime Out or Pizza Pi?
Yes! Lime Out and Pizza Pi are popular USVI charter lunch stops and are included on select shared excursions. They are often guest’s preferred lunch stop for private trips too.
Can we go to Anegada? St. Croix?
No. These destinations are outside the operating range of the single-day trips offered by Voodoo Charters.
Do you offer BVI pickup or drop-off locations?
Typically BVI trips will depart from St. John. At times we may be able to offer special pickups in the BVI.
Special requests should be discussed with us in advance and we will do our best to accommodate your needs.
Do you offer one-way transfers (e.g., St. Thomas to Peter Island or Virgin Gorda)?
Unfortunately due to new BVI regulations we are not longer allowed to offer “taxi” service from the USVI to the BVI.
Onboard Experience & Amenities
What can I expect to experience on an excursion with Voodoo Charters?
Expect a relaxing and fun-filled day on the Caribbean Sea, with plenty of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and simply relax onboard as we cruise to beautiful spots throughout the islands. You’ll have options to spread out in various plushly cushioned lounge areas around the catamarans.
Enjoy delicious beverages and specialty cocktails made by the crew as you visit highlights and hidden gems in the Virgin Islands, and enjoy lunch at floating restaurants or beach bars depending on your itinerary. We aim to give you the best day of your whole vacation!
What’s included on our charter?
- Water: Filtered, cold drinking water is always available to keep you hydrated throughout the day.
- Fruit Platter: Enjoy a fresh fruit platter prepared by the crew, served after you board.
- Snack Board (BVI on VOODOO): On full-day BVI trips on VOODOO, enjoy a snack board with dip, veggies, and crackers. The perfect pick-me-up after snorkeling and swimming.
- Snorkel Gear: Top-of-the-line snorkeling equipment, including kid sizes, is provided. Pool noodles and snorkeling belts are available for your enjoyment and safety.
- Open Bar: A full open bar is available for the entire trip, with a variety of beverages and cocktail options (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, of course!).
- Captain & Crew: A professional Captain and attentive crew who will keep the day running smoothly, provide you insider tips like the best snorkeling and beach spots (and even what to do after you disembark!). We’ll take care of everything so you can relax.
- Fuel: Fuel is included in your trip price. Additional fuel may be charged for custom pickups or some BVI destinations like Virgin Gorda.
What should we bring with us?
- Reef-safe sunscreen (no aerosol or tinted).
- A towel.
- Cash or a card if you want to grab something extra from places we visit (like extras at Lime Out, Pizza Pi, or Soggy Dollar).
- Our vessels have ample space on board for personal items, but the truth is you don’t need much!
Is there shade and comfortable seating onboard?
Oh yes! Both catamarans feature shaded lounges and open sun decks. VOODOO has comfortable seating throughout, including bean‑bag seating on the front nets and a mid‑deck sunbed. VORADO offers sunny and shaded lounging areas with padded seats.
Is there a bathroom onboard?
Yep, there sure are! Both of our catamarans have bathrooms. VOODOO has two spacious bathrooms with changing areas. VORADO has one marine bathroom.
Is there a bar? And if so, for what portion of the trip is it available?
Yep! And a variety of premium beverages, liquor, and specialty cocktails is included.
On VOODOO: At the starboard side of the salon there’s a beautiful open space with a large, wooden, custom-built bar.
On VORADO: A fully stocked large cooler with packed with all the refreshments you’ll need.
We provide an open bar the entire trip from the beginning of your trip to the end.
Is there space for luggage?
Please note that we can not store your suitcases on the boats. While we have plenty of dry storage for your day’s belongings, storage is still limited and space gets too crowded too fast if you and your group bring more than what you’ll need for the day.
Can you take photos for us? Do you rent underwater cameras?
Our crew is always happy to snap a few shots for you — just ask!
We do not rent underwater cameras. However…
If you’d like to come away with a truly amazing gallery of professional photos from your day, we also offer an add-on service to bring along our in-house photographer, Emilie. She’ll capture all the best moments of your trip so you can just enjoy creating those moments.
Consider adding Professional Photography with Emilie
Food & Drink
Do you serve food? Is lunch included? Drinks?
We provide fruit platters in the morning on all day trips. In addition, a snack board will be provided on full day BVI trips on Voodoo.
Excellent lunch options are abundant and change based on the itinerary schedule. However, they are not included in the price of your trip.
An open bar with a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages is included in the price of your trip. It is available from start to finish of your trip.
Can we arrange catering for private charters?
Yes, we are happy to arrange an on‑board sandwich and pasta salad spread or coordinate catering through local providers upon request.
Please note we do not have a galley on the boats and are unable to heat items but we can offer limited cooler space if needed. Room temp or cold appetizers tend to work best.
Where will we eat lunch?
From floating restaurants to tiki bars and fine dining on the beach, lunch stops vary by itinerary. Check out the unique and delicious menu offerings at some of our preferred lunch stops by clicking below:
USVI Charter Lunch Spots
BVI Charter Lunch Spots
Can we bring our own alcohol?
You are welcome to bring your own drinks if you have very specific brand preferences although most guests are pleased with our provided options.
We do ask that you please give drinks to the crew to keep behind the bar and serve you throughout the trip.
Do you offer non-alcoholic options? Vegetarian Options?
Yes. The bar includes non‑alcoholic drinks such as juice, soda and water. Non alcoholic Painkillers can also be enjoyed!
Dietary preferences for lunch or catering can often be accommodated with advance notice.
Pickup Locations & Logistics
Do we need passports? Are passport cards okay?
If we’re heading to the BVI — Yes! All guests must have a valid passport to participate in BVI trips due to customs and immigration requirements.
No passport needed for USVI day trips.
Yes, passport cards are valid for entry into the BVI.
Where do you pick us up? Can you pick us up near where we’re staying?
All St. John shared charters and most private charters depart near the Visitor’s Center in downtown Cruz Bay. Private charters also offering additional pickup options on St. John and St. Thomas
St. John Charters
On shared and private charters departing from Cruz Bay, St. John:
- For USVI trips, we’ll depart from the National Park Dock in Cruz Bay unless a custom pickup location is verified (for private charters).
- For BVI trips on VORADO, departures are typically from the National Park Dock.
- For BVI trips on VOODOO, departures are typically from the International Park Dock.
Custom beach pick‑ups near the Westin at Great Cruz Bay can be requested as an alternative on private charters.
St. Thomas Charters
On private charters departing St. Thomas, pick‑up can be arranged at the following locations:
- Red Hook (American Yacht Harbor)
- The cruise ship ports of Yacht Haven Grande (WICO) and Crown Bay Marina (CB). We can typically pick you up about a 5-minute walk from your cruise ship.
- A few other locations around the island such as Secret Harbor just south of Red Hook (in Nazareth) or Sand Dollar Estates in Magens Bay.
How can we confirm our pickup location?
Please refer to your confirmation email for your pick-up location. If you have any questions feel free to contact us and we’re happy to help clarify any confusion.
Where should we park if we’re departing from Cruz Bay, St. John?
For Cruz Bay departures, the most reliable spots are the Lumberyard up the hill from the International Park Dock, or Slim Man’s Parking behind Wharfside Village.
There are a few parking spaces to park by the Visitors Center, but they’re usually snagged very early in the morning.
We’re arriving by cruise ship. Can you pick us up directly at the cruise port? Will we make it back to the ship on time?
For private charters we can typically pick you up within a 5-minute walk from your cruise ship disembarkation, whether it is at Yacht Haven Grande / Havensight (WICO) or Crown Bay Marina (CB).
The crew plans the itinerary to ensure return before your cruise ship’s departure; communicate your ship’s schedule when booking. Shared charters do not pick up from cruise ports.
Booking, Pricing & Policies
How do I book a charter?
You can book directly through the Voodoo Charters website using the “Book Now” buttons on any page, or by contacting the team to ask questions and reserve your date. Use our website form, call or text 340-690-8272, or email info@voodoovi.com for help selecting the right trip, confirming availability, or planning the details.
Booking Private USVI and BVI Charters
Private charters are reserved by booking the boat exclusively for your group on your preferred date.
Most guests contact Voodoo Charters directly first to confirm availability, pickup location, group size, and trip details.
If you prefer, you can also reserve your date on the website to secure availability, and finalize the details afterward with the team.
Booking Shared USVI and BVI Charters
Shared charters are booked by reserving individual spots on scheduled excursions.
These trips follow preset itineraries and operate on specific dates, so you simply select your trip, choose your date, and reserve the number of guests in your party online.
You’ll receive a confirmation email with all the details you need.
Do you offer gift certificates?
We sure do! These make excellent gifts and your somebody will be very excited. It’s the perfect first step towards an incredible day with Voodoo Charters without the need to get everything figured out just yet.
Give a Voodoo Charters gift certificate to a special someone.
How far in advance do we need to book? How far ahead can we book?
Future calendars open on a rolling basis. To ensure you get the dates you are looking for, booking early is recommended — especially for peak travel periods!
If a date is sold out, is there a waitlist?
We do not offer waitlists, our office staff can provide you with all available dates during your stay.
How much does a USVI or BVI private charter cost from St. John?
Voodoo Charters is headquartered in Cruz Bay, St. John, so the rates below reflect our general base rates from Cruz Bay.
Please note:
The following prices reflect general starting points as of the publishing date. While we do our best to remain up-to-date and transparent, we cannot guarantee these exact prices when you book.
Final pricing is always confirmed before booking based on your trip details, guest count, pickup location, season, and availability.
Private Charters from St. John on M/V VORADO
Base rate includes first 6 guests; additional guests charged per person (up to 12 guests).
USVI Private Charters departing St. John on VORADO
- Full-day USVI charters start from $2,500
- Half-day USVI charters start from $1,500
- Sunset cruises start from $1,000
BVI Private Charters departing St. John on VORADO
- Full-day BVI Charters start from $3,100
Private Charters from St. John on M/V VOODOO
Base rate includes first 30 guests; additional guests charged per person (up to 49 guests).
USVI Private Charters departing St. John on VOODOO
- Full-day USVI charters start from $6,400
- Half-day USVI charters start from $3,500
- USVI Sunset cruises start from $2,000
BVI Private Charters departing St. John on VOODOO
- Full-day BVI charters start from $7,600
How much does a USVI or BVI private charter cost from St. Thomas?
Our boats are based in St. John, so St. Thomas pickups include additional fuel and docking costs. These fees generally range from $225 at Red Hook to $600 at farther locations such as Magens Bay.
Please note:
Rates below reflect general starting points, including the additional fuel and docking fees, as of the publishing date. While we do our best to remain up-to-date and transparent, we cannot guarantee these exact prices when you book.
Final pricing is always confirmed before booking based on your trip details, guest count, pickup location, season, and availability.
Private Charters from St. Thomas on M/V VORADO
Base rate includes first 6 guests; additional guests charged per person (up to 12 guests). Ranges in starting price reflect different of pickup locations.
USVI Private Charters departing St. Thomas on VORADO
- Full-day USVI charters start from $2,725–$3,400
- Half-day USVI charters start from $1,725–$2,100 (Departing from Red Hook and Cruise Ports only)
- Sunset cruises start from $1,225–$1,600 (Departing Red Hook only)
BVI Private Charters departing St. Thomas on VORADO
- Full-day BVI Charters start from $3,325–$3,700
Private Charters from St. Thomas on M/V VOODOO
Base rate includes first 30 guests; additional guests charged per person (up to 49 guests). Ranges in starting price reflect different of pickup locations.
USVI Private Charters departing St. Thomas on VOODOO
- Full-day USVI charters start from $6,625–$7,000
- Half-day USVI charters start from $3,725–$4,100
- USVI Sunset cruises start from $2,225–$2,600
BVI Private Charters departing St. Thomas on VOODOO
- Full-day BVI charters start from $7,825–$8,200
How much does it cost for my infant to come along on the boat charter?
Our trips are free for infants up to 2 years old!
Please note, however, that every person on board counts toward the vessel’s legal headcount as required by law.
For example, if you have a group of 30 guests plus one infant, your total headcount is 31. Because the infant occupies one of the 30 included spots, you will have one additional guest to pay for.
For BVI Trips: Please also note that infants are charged the Customs fee.
What additional costs should I be aware of?
- Additional Guests: For groups larger than the base count, rates increase by $100–$150 per person on VORADO and $200–$240 per person on VOODOO.
- BVI Customs Fees: If we’re heading out on a BVI charter, a mandatory fee of $85.00 per person is required for all BVI entries and is not included in the charter price.
- Fuel and Docking Surcharges: An added fuel/docking surcharge applies for custom pickup locations, as well as travel to Virgin Gorda.
- Gratuity: Industry standard is 15%–25%. A minimum gratuity of 20% is added to all VOODOO private excursions.
- Add-On Services: We offer upgrades for catering, liquor/beer/wine, and special requests. We also offer an add-on service to bring an onboard photographer with us to capture your special moments throughout the day.
- Changes in pricing before booking: We always strive for being transparent with the most up-to-date information. However, you may find that pricing we’ve listed here has changed since the date of publishing. If you find this to be true, we’d appreciate letting us know.
- Additional costs for food and drink, merchandise, and other purchases from outside vendors during the trip are also something to keep in mind.
Can we extend our trip?
For private charters, if scheduling and logistics permit, we will be happy to extend the day’s trip when possible at a rate of $400-$1500 per hour depending on trip, boat and number of guests.
Is a deposit required? When is payment collected?
Yes. A 50 % deposit on a credit card is collected at booking and the balance is due at the conclusion of the trip.
Cash can be used for crew gratuity only, and all other charges must be made on a credit card. Gratuity can also be added to the credit card on file if you prefer.
What is the waiver? Do we need to do one?
Waivers are required to be completed by ALL guests before we can depart from the dock area to start your trip. It is best to complete these before you travel to have one less thing to worry about on vacation.
What happens if it rains?
We have a “rain or shine” policy for all trips. On rare occasions, weather cancellations will occur. Weather-based cancellations are determined at the sole discretion of our Captains on the day of the trip, not before.
Should the Captain determine that weather conditions are not suitable for a trip to run, we do our best to offer guests an option to reschedule. If a reschedule is not possible or does not work for our guests’ schedule, we refund any deposits collected.
What is your cancellation policy? Are payments refundable or transferable?
For Private Charters
Your deposit is non-refundable but transferable to another date if you provide at least 30 days’ notice.
If you cancel a private charter within 48 hours of departure, your deposit will not be transferred or refunded, and you will be charged the full amount of the charter.
For Shared Charters
Your deposit is non-refundable but transferable to another trip if you provide at least 48 hours’ notice.
If you cancel within 48 hours or do not show, your deposit will not be transferred or refunded, and you will be charged the full amount of the charter.
We’re happy to answer all of your questions.
We aim to provide answers to any and all questions you have so we can create the best day for you and your group.
We are excited for you to join us for a day!
