Boat Charter - snorkel and BVI for 8

[DuxDweller]

Hi All.

I've read many posts here regarding great charters for 6 or fewer. Last year I used Lion in Da Sun and had a terrific experience - GREAT guys and a perfect day. This Feb. we'll be adding 2 to my party of 6 and I really don't want to have a boat full of people with us. Any suggestions on a charter for 8?

Thanks for your help!

Dux

[DnD]

Dux,

8 of us went out with Captain Kevin on Born to Rhumb in February and had a great time. The boat had plenty of room, seas were a little rough but the boat easily handled it.

Tell him Big Erv and the mechanics from Oregon sent you.

[DuxDweller]

Thanks Big Erv! Looks like he has been highly recommended. I am having a little sticker shock, though. Lion charged a flat $525 plus fuel for 6 of us - BTR is looking at $1200 for 8. Seems pretty steep

[alw1977]

Someone will correct me if I am wrong here, but I've always heard that the max a smaller charter can take is 6, and above that the charter/captain needs some additional certifications. That is why a trip for any more than 6 is usually expensive. Someone else will probably chime in with the details.

Have you called New Horizons II? Their New Horizons boat (as opposed to the larger Breakaway) holds more than 6 but is still fairly small. They are out of St. Thomas but will pick you up on St. John no problem.

[alw1977]

Okay, I had the right idea. It has to do with inspections and Coast Guard requirements. Here's a link to a post that explains things:

http://www.virgin-islands-on-line.com/f ... te+charter

[Connie]

Renting Born to Rhumb at approximately $150.00 is well worth it. It's a fast boat, lots of room for even 12 people and it includes the gas.

We've never regretted having a full day of fun for only $150.00. How much does it cost to rent a jet ski for even a 1/2 hour? Or parasailing?

It's still definetly a deal.

[PA Girl]

Dux,

8 of us went out with Captain Kevin on Born to Rhumb in February and had a great time. The boat had plenty of room, seas were a little rough but the boat easily handled it.

Tell him Big Erv and the mechanics from Oregon sent you.

Ditto 'cept we went in Feb 08 - Six adults (we wanted a roomy boat)

Crew was great, very professional, friendly yet not too into our business. Lots of beverages available.

[pswlrw]

Another recommendation for Born to Rhumb. We have gone out with Kevin the last 4 years and it is ALWAYS the best day of our vacation!!

[Barb Y]

HI! My family and I rented either Stormy Petrel or Pirates Penny. We had 8 in our group and it worked out well. We had a Captain and his assistant. They were both awesome. Drinks flowed all day. We went ot Virgin Gorda and played on the rocks. They were great tour guides and super nice. Here is who we went through http://www.bestofusvi.com/list.cfm?Detail=32 Good luck and have fun!!!!!!