When planning a day on the water in St. Thomas, many travelers stick to traditional boat tours or snorkeling excursions. But for those seeking something a little different — combining fun, a dash of exercise, and a chance to enjoy stunning scenery — the St. Thomas Cycleboats Water Island Trip offers an experience worth considering.
This tour blends the novelty of pedaling a boat with the laid-back vibe of Caribbean beaches, all while keeping the atmosphere light and engaging.
We’re particularly drawn to the interactive nature of this trip, where you help drive the boat and share a party atmosphere with fellow travelers. Plus, the affordable price point of $95 per person, with no hidden or expensive bar tabs, means you’re getting a lot of value without breaking the bank.
One potential drawback? The activity requires a moderate level of physical fitness, so if you’re not comfortable with some pedaling or balance, you might find parts of it a bit challenging.
But overall, this trip appeals most to those who want an authentic, lively experience with a touch of adventure — perfect for groups, families, or anyone wanting a memorable day on the water.
Key Points
- Unique experience blending pedaled fun with Caribbean scenery
- Visit Honeymoon Beach on Water Island for relaxing and swimming
- Bring your own drinks or enjoy provided rum punch and water
- Group size is limited for a more intimate, fun atmosphere
- Includes a motor for added comfort and ease
- High ratings with 97% of travelers recommending it
An Engaging Alternative to Traditional Boat Tours
Unlike the usual sightseeing vessels, the St. Thomas Cycleboats turn your water trip into a lively, participatory event. The pedal-powered boat is equipped with cycle stations, allowing you to contribute to steering and moving the vessel forward. Think of it as a floating bar where you’re also the bartender — you can bring your favorite drinks to enjoy while cruising. The motor ensures the boat can navigate smoothly even if you’re not pedaling constantly, which is a relief for those who want to take a break now and then.
This tour’s charm lies in its casual, party-like atmosphere. The boat’s Bluetooth stereo pumps out Caribbean tunes, while rum punch, water, and coolers with ice are provided, creating a relaxed, festive vibe. Plus, the small group limit of 16 travelers ensures a friendly, laid-back environment where everyone gets a chance to mingle and have fun.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in St Thomas.
The Itinerary: A Mix of Adventure and Relaxation
The trip begins at Tickles Dockside Pub, with your crew ready to set sail on the roughly 3-hour adventure. The highlight is the stop at Water Island’s Honeymoon Beach — a picture-perfect stretch of white sand with calm, clear waters. Here, you’re free to swim, sunbathe, or simply relax with a drink or snack purchased at the bar on the beach.
Your time on the island is roughly two hours, plenty for a refreshing swim or a relaxing lounge on the sand. One review mentions how the beach was practically empty, offering a quiet spot to unwind after the lively boat ride. If you’re a nature-lover, you might appreciate that sea turtles have been spotted near the area — a bonus for those who enjoy wildlife encounters.
Back on the boat, the return journey is equally enjoyable, with upbeat music and a chance to chat with fellow travelers. Some reviews highlight that the crew is friendly and helpful, making sure everyone is comfortable and having a good time.
What’s Included and What to Bring
The tour includes rum punch, bottled water, coolers, and ice, along with Bluetooth sound for your playlist. It’s a flexible setup — you’re encouraged to bring your own drinks, snacks, or even additional alcohol, making it a good value for those who want to personalize their experience.
Some reviews emphasize the delicious rum punch and the friendly crew, which adds to the festive mood. One guest notes, “the rum punch was outstanding,” and many mention how the drinks flow freely and add to the relaxed vibe.
However, snacks are not provided, so if you want to munch on something beyond the beach snacks, you’ll need to bring your own. The meeting point is conveniently close to the cruise pier, and the tour ends back at the same spot, making logistics simple.
The Experience: Fun, Fitness, and Scenic Views
What makes this trip stand out is the combination of physical activity and leisure. Many reviews mention how much fun they had pedaling and dancing to Caribbean tunes. One traveler noted, “exercise or not, it was relaxing,” underscoring how the activity caters to a range of energy levels.
The views from the water are spectacular — you’ll glide past lush coasts, see Water Island’s pristine beaches, and enjoy the vibrant colors of the Caribbean. The white sands of Honeymoon Beach are often described as idyllic, a perfect spot to unwind. Several reviews express how much they enjoyed the easy accessibility of the beach, thanks to the boat’s stop right at the shoreline.
Authenticity and Local Charm
The crew, which includes captains and first mates, are consistently praised for their friendliness and local knowledge. They share stories and tips, making the experience more engaging. For example, one review mentions Captain Ann Marie and her lively commentary, enhancing the trip’s local flavor.
The tour’s small-group format fosters camaraderie and makes it easier to connect. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to mingle and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.
Pricing and Value
At $95 per person, this tour offers good value for what you get — a mix of active fun, scenic cruising, drinks, and a beach break. Compared to more traditional boat tours, the cost is reasonable given the included amenities and the unique experience of pedaling a boat with a party vibe.
Many reviews emphasize the quality of the rum punch and the friendly staff, making it feel like a premium experience without a hefty price tag. Plus, the ability to bring your own drinks adds flexibility and saves money on expensive bar tabs.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This trip is ideal for adventurous travelers who enjoy a bit of physical activity and socializing. It’s perfect for groups of friends, couples, or families looking for a lively, memorable day. The relaxed party atmosphere also makes it a good fit for those celebrating special occasions, like birthdays or anniversaries.
If you appreciate stunning beaches and scenic water views combined with good company and drinks, this tour hits the mark. Conversely, if you’re not comfortable with moderate physical activity, you might prefer a more traditional boat ride. But for most, the blend of fun, scenery, and social vibe makes it a standout choice.
The Sum Up
The St. Thomas Cycleboats Water Island Trip offers a playful, engaging way to experience the Caribbean from the water. Combining the novelty of pedaling with the serenity of Honeymoon Beach, the trip balances activity with relaxation—making it a well-rounded choice for many travelers. The friendly crew, lively music, and the ability to bring your own drinks keep the atmosphere casual and fun.
This tour is best suited for those who want more than just sightseeing — it’s about participation, laughter, and creating memories. You’ll love the ease of access to Water Island’s pristine beach and the joy of cruising on a boat that puts you in the driver’s seat (or at least, the pedal stations). If you’re after a lively, authentic Caribbean experience with good value, this trip deserves a place on your St. Thomas itinerary.
St. Thomas Cycleboats Water Island Trip
FAQ
Is there a motor on the boat?
Yes, the boat is equipped with a motor, so you can relax and take breaks from pedaling if needed.
Can I bring my own drinks?
Absolutely. The tour encourages guests to bring their favorite beverages, which they can enjoy along with the provided rum punch and water.
How long is the trip?
The total duration is approximately 3 hours, with about 2 hours spent at Honeymoon Beach.
What is included in the price?
Your fee includes rum punch, bottled water, coolers with ice, Bluetooth stereo for music, and the fun of pedaling and socializing.
What is the meeting point?
The tour starts and ends at Tickles Dockside Pub, located at 8168 Crown Bay Marina #308, St. Thomas.
Is this suitable for children or those with limited mobility?
Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level; it’s not specifically designed for those with mobility limitations.
In summary, the St. Thomas Cycleboats Water Island Trip provides a lively, engaging way to enjoy the stunning scenery and relaxed vibe of Water Island. Perfect for those seeking a blend of activity, social fun, and scenic beauty, it’s a memorable addition to any Caribbean itinerary.
