Big Blue Excursions
Big Blue Excursions
5
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 7:00 PM
Full view
About
Charter your Private Power boat for groups of 1-11 passengers or enjoy a Sailing Adventure with us! It's your way every day on Big Blue's 31 foot Grady White "Gypsea Girl" or sail our 47 foot Fountaine Pajot catamaran sailboat "Sweet Revenge II". Vessels are roomy and comfortable for your private group. We'll help you design the perfect itinerary for your group and create the best day of your vacation!
Cruz Bay, U.S. Virgin Islands
Awards
Travellers' Choice
2024
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
5.0
973 reviews
Excellent
959
Very good
12
Average
2
Poor
0
Terrible
0
rebeccablevins
1 contribution
Dec 2019 • Family
We had an amazing time on board Sweet Revenge II. The crew was knowledgeable and friendly, and they were happy to adjust the itinerary as we went along. They even took the dinghy out with the kids to grab a pizza from Pizza Pi, the floating pizza shop! The boat itself was amazing, with plenty of room to sit and eat, lounge around, and enjoy the sun and amazing views. The crew knew all the best snorkeling spots, ensured everyone was comfortable and safe, and I had fun watching a sea turtle right under me while I was out on a paddleboard. Even our teenagers agreed that the boating experience was truly the highlight of our week-long trip to St John. Many thanks to the Big Blue team!
Written 9 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TLGreggT
Fairfax County, VA1 contribution
Apr 2021
Just enjoyed a great day of snorkeling and sightseeing aboard Gypsy King captained by Tom. Highly recommend him for a full day of expertly navigated through medium chop but felt very smooth and comfortable. Tom is exceptionally knowledgeable of the USVI and surrounding areas as well including ecology, history, and seamanship. He let us guide the day but offered many recommendations to suit our preferences.
Written 5 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
djdeacon
St. John2 contributions
Feb 2020 • Family
Sharp was an amazing host. He made all EIGHT of us feel welcome and comfortable, including a 3-year old. We visited great snorkeling and swimming spots and had a perfect afternoon. The boat is beautiful and the crow's nest seating was very special. You can tell a lot went into the design of the boat. (It will be great when the cup holders arrive. . .) Thank you for a memorable afternoon. We'll be back again. The Deacon/Dunlap family
Written 11 February 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
ricopolatzo
Louisville, KY180 contributions
Jun 2021 • Family
We were picked up at the National Park dock exactly when they said they would be there. Our captain, Freeman, had a cooler stocked with beer, water, and soft drinks. They also had snorkel gear and noodles on the boat. We were taken to 6 snorkel spots, two beaches, and to Lime Out in Coral Bay for lunch. Most of the snorkeling was very good. We saw several turtles, some rays, and a lot of fish. Freeman was friendly and answered all of our questions. We had six in our group so there was plenty of room for everyone on the boat. I feel like we could have accommodated one or two more people comfortably. I would charter a boat from Big Blue Excursions again in the future and would recommend them to friends and family traveling to St. John.
Written 2 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
justinoconnor2
New York City, NY1 contribution
Mar 2021
Captain Freeman provided a top notch day on the water – catering to very member on the trip, leading to countless memories. Freeman was very knowledgable of the islands, taking us along a very scenic route around St. John alongside some incredible snorkel spots where we saw turtles, corals and colorful fish. We were able to take advantage of the calm waters, allowing us to check out more advance snorkeling sights as well. It wouldn't be a trip around St. John without a stop at Lime Out, where we enjoyed tacos and cocktails out on the water.
Net net, best day of our trip – we will 100% be back and when we are we will be certain to book a trip with Captain Freeman & Big Blue Excursions!
Net net, best day of our trip – we will 100% be back and when we are we will be certain to book a trip with Captain Freeman & Big Blue Excursions!
Written 16 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
X1156UYdonh
Blacksburg, VA1 contribution
Jan 2020 • Family
Sharp took our family group of seven - from age nine to 77 - on a day long snorkeling and sightseeing trip around St. John and St. Thomas. We have visited the islands several times as a couple, but this was the first time as a family. Margie and Sharp are knowledgeable and down to earth as well as creative problem solvers. As an example, our son had a work related conference call mid day. Sharp set up the day so we would could settle at a location he could get reception for an hour while the rest of the group snorkeled and swam. Sharp is a great conversationalist in addition to being ready and willing to share about "all things island". Without reservation, we can recommend Big Blue for your St. John charter.
Written 10 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Paige P
4 contributions
Feb 2021
Highly recommend Big Blue Excursions for your boat travel and exploration on St. John! We have had several experiences with Captain Freeman and every trip gets better every time. From the ease of booking to snorkel stops to Lime Out (floating taco bar) to exploring coves and new areas, you are in wonderful hands with those who know the island well and can show you all of the beauty it has to offer. Will continue to recommend Big Blue Excursions to friends and family and book a trip every time we are here.
Written 7 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
J'nelle R
Los Angeles, CA3 contributions
Jun 2021 • Family
We had a group of 9 in our family. We were taken to great snorkel holes and a nice hike. When my husband mentioned he wanted to try to snare lobster, our guide took the boat back to the lot where his car was parked to get one out of the car. When my son's girlfriend jumped off the boat and accidently lost the diamond ring she had just received for graduation, our guide spent 20-30 minutes diving and looking for it. These extra gestures did not go unnoticed and we would highly recommend the trip with them. They really let us decide how our day looked.
Written 30 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Suzanne_Maine
Sanford, Maine13 contributions
Jan 2020 • Couples
Big Blue Excursions was really wonderful to work with. Margie was very quick to respond to our request for a quote and was quick to accommodate our request for pick up at the West End, Tortola. Captain Sophie was very competent, knowledgable and fun! We will definitely book with Big Blue when we return to the VI's!
Written 10 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
kbgould
Somersworth, NH1 contribution
Apr 2022 • Family
We just got back from spring vacation in St John and we used Big Blue and Sweet Revenge II for a full day trip. The snorkeling was the best that we have ever encountered in 4 trips. The comments from our group of 10 was that it was like being dropped into an aquarium. We saw sharks, turtles, TONS of fish of different varieties including some huge tarpon, sea urchin, giant starfish, an eel, and a mini squid. Since we weren't on a powerboat, we took their recommendation of lunch onboard instead of visiting a restaurant. It was worth it. The deli lunch was very good and they were very conscious of a tree nut allergy in our group. One negative though it was a bit odd that the only chip was salt & vinegar. We had Capt Jena and First Mate Sara. Jena was very professional and Sara was AMAZING!! She was so attentive to our group with snorkeling assistance, the food, drinks, music, etc. and we could tell that she was very skilled at her job. Would definitely recommend Big Blue, this boat in particular, and this crew. Thank you for a fantastic, highlight of the trip, day!
Written 1 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What are average fuel costs for a full day excursion?
Written 8 October 2021
I believe our cost was around $285-$300. Email the company and they will email you back quickly!! The husband and wife team are awesome! AND, they are from NC!
Written 9 October 2021
How long is a day long cruise? Sunrise to sunset?
Written 30 September 2019
Our full day powerboat excursions are 8 hours, typically from 8:30am-4:30pm. However, we are very flexible and willing to do whatever time frame works best for you!
Written 1 October 2019
HI how long are you out on the boat? Is it from sunrise to sunset?
Written 30 September 2019
Our full day powerboat excursions are 8 hours, typically from 8:30am-4:30pm. However, we are very flexible and willing to do whatever time frame works best for you!
Written 1 October 2019
We will be in St. John in May 2020. How far in advance should be we book an all day excursion? Thanks!
Written 15 September 2019
We booked in March for a trip in June, but probably up to 6 months will ensure you get the date you want. When you book it you will have to pay a deposit but you can cancel anytime up to 48hrs before your trip.
Written 16 September 2019
Hi Ray : We're heading there in a few weeks. I like the idea of this excursion. Did you pre-book this prior to your trip to SJVI...or is it something you could book once we get there and figure out of week in paradise?
Written 10 March 2016
Hi Gayle -
We definitely encourage you to book ahead. Especially during "high season", which is now:-) We look forward to hearing from you!
Cheers, Lara
Written 11 March 2016
HI Big Blue,
We are coming to St. John in late October 23-1st of November. Our friends will join us on the 25th -30th. There will be a total of 4 and would like to get some idea of chartering a boat and visiting some of the islands for the day. I would love to do a sailboat, however that darn motion sickness might get to me....All for suggestions and recommendations from your company as we are celebrating my 60th! Thank you
Written 3 September 2015
Hi Catherine
This is a common concern. In our 10 yrs of doing VI charters, I have had 2 guests on the powerboat have motion sickness.(both were also partially to much fun the night before!) We chose the Grady Whites specifically for the stability and have wristbands for a homeopathic motion sickness remedy.
Stay away from to much alcohol the day before and acidy foods like coffee, OJ, tomato sauce. you should be fine. Enjoy!
Written 8 September 2015
Any suggestions for 7 adults and 2 kids (14 and 11)??...Im seeing a lot of max of 6- Thanks!
Written 26 May 2015
Great question Well if you are over 6, you are able to rent the boat under a bareboat(demise) contract. it is like renting the boat yourselves and requesting one of our company captains (you choose) to be your guide. As bareboat, you must pay the capt separately and provide your own beverages. They have recently changed the law to 12 but it will be a few months until boats are compliant with the new law, where there will be no need to sign a demise contract. Feel free to call us for more details. Thank you for your inquiry
Written 31 May 2015
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.