Midnight Sun Charters – 37ft OBSIDIAN

Exploring Midnight Sun Charters’ 37ft OBSIDIAN: A Personalized Day on the Waters of St. Thomas

If you’re dreaming of a day sailing the clear waters of the US Virgin Islands, a private charter like Midnight Sun Charters’ 37ft OBSIDIAN might just be your ideal escape. This tour offers a flexible, intimate experience that caters directly to your interests—whether that’s swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, or simply soaking up island views. It’s perfect for groups up to six who want to avoid the crowds and create a customized adventure.

What we love about this experience is how it combines comfort with personal attention. The vessel is described as comfortable, and the captain is there to tailor your day to your preferences, which means no rigid schedule or crowded group tours. Plus, with a solid reputation—a 5.0 star rating from 135 reviews and a 99% recommendation—it clearly delivers on quality.

However, a point to consider is the price: at $2,000 per group, this experience isn’t cheap, but it’s worth noting that it’s for a private experience, which adds to the value of personalized service. If you’re traveling with friends or family and want a full day tailored to your interests, this could be a worthwhile splurge.

This tour is best suited for anyone wanting a flexible, private day on the water—especially couples, families, or small groups who prefer a customized experience over a generic cruise. If you’re looking for a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and island-hopping, this might be your perfect match.

Key Points

• Private Charter: Enjoy exclusive use of the boat for your group, avoiding crowded tours.
• Customizable Itinerary: The captain works with you to plan your perfect day.
• Variety of Stops: From beaches to snorkeling spots and island bars, there’s plenty to see.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Bottled water, snorkeling gear, and a captain are included—fuel and entrance fees are extra.
• Flexible Duration: Tours run for about 5 to 8 hours, giving ample time for multiple stops.
• Advance Booking: Most bookings are made roughly 45 days ahead, emphasizing its popularity.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and What to Expect

The itinerary offers a well-rounded taste of the Virgin Islands, blending iconic beaches with snorkeling and island hopping. We appreciate how the stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase both the natural beauty and the fun spots that make the BVI area special.

Magens Bay Beach

Your adventure begins at Magens Bay, often rated among the world’s top beaches. Known for its calm, clear waters and soft sand, it’s a perfect place to swim or relax after your morning departure. With a free admission ticket, it’s a great way to start your day without additional costs. Expect about an hour here, enough to dip your toes or snap a few photos.

The Baths on Virgin Gorda

Next, you’ll visit one of the most famous natural attractions in the Caribbean, the Baths. These giant granite formations create a maze of tunnels and grottos to explore. The tour includes swimming at Devil’s Bay, which is great for photos and cooling off. The included two-hour stop allows enough time to explore at a relaxed pace, and reviewers rave about the experience—one calls it “the highlight of the trip.”

Sandy Cay

A small island perfect for snorkeling or sunbathing, Sandy Cay offers calm waters and vibrant marine life. With an hour on this tiny island, you can enjoy a quick swim or relax on the sand. It’s an ideal break from the boat for those seeking a laid-back vibe.

Francis Bay

This spot is noted for great snorkeling, often with the chance to see sea turtles and rays—something snorkelers find especially memorable. Around an hour here is enough to dip in and out of the water, and the reviews confirm it’s a favorite among past guests.

Norman Island Caves

Norman Island is famously rumored to be the home of Crusoe’s Treasure, adding a bit of legend to your snorkeling adventures. The caves are a popular spot for underwater exploration, and the stop includes about two hours—ample time to snorkel, explore caves, and even have lunch if you pack or buy it on the boat. One reviewer described this as a “great snorkeling spot,” noting the combination of fun and scenic beauty.

The Indians

Near Norman Island, this site offers another excellent snorkel spot. With about an hour allocated, you can expect a relaxed swim amid the coral formations and marine life.

Cooper Island

A suggested lunch stop, Cooper Island combines scenic views with good food options. Past guests mentioned it as a “great lunch spot,” and the two-hour window gives plenty of time to eat and unwind before the next stop.

Soggy Dollar Bar

Finally, the tour concludes with a hop to Jost Van Dyke’s famous Soggy Dollar Bar. Known worldwide for its Painkiller cocktails, this spot offers a lively end to the day. The two-hour stay allows you to enjoy a drink, relax, and soak in the island atmosphere.

The Experience: What It Feels Like

From the reviews, it’s clear that the captain’s expertise and friendliness make a significant difference. One reviewer said, “Adam was a great captain and had several fun stops,” highlighting how attentive and flexible the crew can be. Another praised Captain Sam for being “very knowledgeable and flexible to what we wanted,” emphasizing the importance of a good guide in maximizing your day.

The boat itself is described as comfortable and well-equipped, with snorkel gear and pool noodles provided—great for families or groups with kids. Having ice-cold bottled water included keeps everyone hydrated, especially after sunbathing or snorkeling.

Timing is another major plus. The tour runs around 5 to 8 hours, giving enough flexibility to linger at favorite spots or move quickly through others. This makes for a comfortably paced day, with the chance to tailor your experience based on weather and mood.

Cost & Value

While $2,000 for up to six people might seem steep at first glance, it’s essential to consider what’s included: private use of a boat, a dedicated captain, snorkeling gear, bottled water, and the ability to customize your stops. Compared to group tours, this private charter offers a level of intimacy and flexibility that many travelers find worthwhile—especially if you value a personalized day rather than a crowded group experience.

Practicalities and Considerations

• Advance booking is recommended, with most trips booked about 45 days ahead.
• The tour requires passports and clearance for BVI customs if crossing into the British Virgin Islands.
• The cost of entrance fees and fuel is not included, so budget accordingly.
• The tour is suitable for most travelers, and most participants can participate, making it a good option for families or groups with varied ages.
• Cancellation policy offers a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This private charter works best for travelers who are looking for a flexible, intimate experience. It’s ideal for groups who enjoy personalized plans, snorkeling adventures, and island hopping without the noise and crowds of larger tours. Families, couples, or friends wanting to spend quality time together will appreciate the exclusivity and attention to detail.

If you’re traveling with a cruise ship and want to maximize your time on land and water, this tour’s flexible scheduling can be a real advantage. Just remember to coordinate your timings and provide your ship details ahead of time to avoid missing out.

Final Thoughts

Midnight Sun Charters’ 37ft OBSIDIAN offers a compelling way to explore the Virgin Islands in style and comfort. Its private nature, combined with a customizable itinerary and attentive captain, means you’re in charge of your own adventure. The stops are thoughtfully selected—each offering a different taste of the local scenery and marine life—making this a day packed with variety, relaxation, and fun.

While the price may be on the higher side, the value of a private, tailored experience can justify the cost, especially for those seeking a memorable, stress-free day. Whether you’re snorkeling with sea turtles, lounging on pristine beaches, or enjoying island cocktails, this tour has the potential to be a highlight of your trip.

For travelers who want to avoid crowded tours and prefer a personal touch, this experience is a solid choice. It’s perfect if your group values flexibility, comfort, and authentic island encounters, making every moment on the water truly yours.

FAQ

Is this a private tour?
Yes, this experience is exclusively for your group—up to six people—giving you privacy and flexibility.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the private boat, a captain, bottled water with ice, and snorkel gear. Entrance fees and fuel are additional.

How long is the tour?
Most tours last between 5 and 8 hours, allowing plenty of time to visit multiple locations and enjoy the day at your pace.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, most bookings are made roughly 45 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred date.

Are there any restrictions or requirements?
Participants need a valid passport, and cruise ship guests must provide ship details for customs clearance. Most travelers can participate.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour relies on good weather. If canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund if canceled 24 hours in advance.

This private boat tour offers a wonderful blend of relaxation and adventure—perfect for those wanting to make their Virgin Islands visit truly personal. Whether you’re snorkeling with turtles, lounging on sandy beaches, or savoring island cocktails, it’s a day designed to fit your wishes.