Wonderful day on a clean, comfortable boat with an excellent captain (Enzo) who was knowledgeable, personable, fun to talk with, and took us to beautiful snorkel spots. This was our fourth time chartering with Island Roots over the last 9 years, and we have had perfect days each time. Highly recommended! read more

What a great time!! Super cool guys. Much respect. Our family had a fantastic time. Thanks for showing us all around and making lifetime memories especially for my kids. You guys have a bright future. Thanks for bringing back real authentic customer service where people want to tip! read more

Island Roots - Turtles! - Boating Near Me - St John, Virgin Islands

Captain Ryan was amazing. We booked a private boat experience. He was very knowledgeable and adjusted on the fly as we changed our minds. A great day on the water. Pack lots of sunscreen! read more

Easy to book and Jason was super friendly and helpful! Captain Enzo was the best! He made our day delightful. Thank you! read more

Island Roots - Boating Near Me - St John, Virgin Islands

We had an amazing two days on the water exploring all things BVI and St John with Captain Max. Max was awesome and made sure we had the best experience!! A truly magical time at Christmas Cove with all the sea life and swimming with the young dolphin "feeling a certain way" Highly recommend and we will certainly be back and request Max!! PS Max...the night goggles are on the way!! read more

Look no further! Jason was our Captain and the owner. He was able to fit us in last minute, SCORE! His boat is new, beautiful, comfortable and lightning fast. He took us to 3 different snorkel spots each with different topography that were calm and smooth to sail. He watched us closely and gave us our space to do drift snorkels. We basically just floated along the current. It was so relaxing. (Like swimming in a giant fish tank). Nurse sharks came right up to the boat and lots of fish and tons of different corals and beautiful sea fans. It was mesmerizing. Thank you for such a wonderful day! read more

What a fabulous full day trip my wife, Deb, and I had with Ryan! We toured all around St. John, had lunch in Cruz Bay, and went snorkeling with the turtles! Ryan was a wealth of information and extremely personable! Ryan - thank you for an absolutely wonderful day on the water! Deb and Frank. read more

Best trip with Enzo! He was so incredibly knowledgeable and accommodating. Visited Jost, Henley Cay and Spit Cay The sights were breathtaking. Beautiful and comfortable boat. read more

We really enjoyed riding the waves with Capt Max. He knew how to show us 8 ladies a good time. As his beachy hair blew in the salt mist air he was sure to explain the sites of The Baths, Willie T's, Soggy Dollar and more. His Mama did a great job raising a gentleman and we will def be back! The are not enough stars for him! Thanks Max. read more

Captain Max is the man! Northern swells? No problem. Max took us to the south side of St. Thomas and we had a great time. Dingy's is a great restaurant on Water Island. Food, drinks, and mood all great. The Mermaid's Chair is beautiful and good snorkeling to the left (didn't check the right). Good snorkeling at Little St. James Island, and the shipwreck we saw was cool - I don't recall where it was though... If you haven't ridden with Max, give him a try! read more

Our family of four spent a day with Captain Ryan on an island roots charter, and it was the most amazing day! I can't say enough about Ryan. He was polite, patient and obviously an experienced Captain. Both my daughter and I remarked on how he remembered each of our names- and she's only ten! He listened to what we hoped to get out of the day's charter and took us to each spot we suggested. Lovango Beach and Henley Cay were amazing snorkeling spots. Trunk Bay brought a shark sighting and some purposeful swimming back to the boat. Pizza Pi was closed for the season, so Ryan recommended North Shore Deli to dock, grab the sandwiches he ordered on our behalf and jump back on board. It was amazing- buffalo chicken dip was delicious! Ryan pulled up to Little Cinnamon Beach and we had lunch on the beach looking over the clearest water and pristine beach. Finally, he patiently dealt with our five here old wanting to go back to the pool (sigh). And he took us to a sunken ship where we saw at least two turtles. I would say this spot was better than Maho Beach for turtle spotting. It was worth paying the extra dollars to be picked up and returned from the Westin- more economical than taking the taxis to Cruz Bay. The entire experience was talked about over dinner, and I can't wait to recommend Ryan and Island Roots to friends. We will definitely book again when we return to STJVI. Thanks, Island Roots and Captain Ryan! read more

See all

We had a blast! Jason was our Captain, guide, DJ ... he was awesome! We saw some cliff jumping; my son made the jumps not me. We stopped to snorkel and swim at some beautiful beaches, including snorkeling with the turtles, lunch at Lime Out and more. Highly recommend doing a day charter! read more

Captain Ryan made it a great day. We had a group of 4 couples that wanted to experience all that the island snorkeling scene had to offer. He was pleasant, kind, attentive and knowledgeable. We would definitely go back to them because we got to see caves, beaches, wildlife... etc, etc. It was a great day!!! read more

I cannot say enough about this spectacular company and staff. Our group of 8 adults actually did two trips within 3 days with Island Roots. Our captain, Ryan, went above and beyond to make sure each guest is taken care of, safe, and had an enjoyable and informative trip. Overall, our 5th time booking with Island Roots, and we will not even consider another provider for future trips. read more

We took a private catamaran cruise with island roots and had a fantastic time! Captain Max was a great guide to St. John and took us to several beautiful snorkeling spots. We had lunch at Time Out Taco Bar and while it is most definitely a tourist spot - the tacos and drinks were great. Fun place to hang out for lunch. He shared his love of the island with us by pointing out beaches and hikes we can explore on our own. The boat was clean. He picked us up on time. All in all, it was a 5 star experience and an amazing day on the water. Highly recommend read more

We had the best day on our bucket list trip! Ryan with Island Roots Charters was The Bomb Dot Com! He took us to Lime Out, snorkeling/swimming in several bays, played music we loved and was such a professional. We took this charter based on a recommendation from a friend and we could not be any happier with the unbelievable service we received. We can't wait to book our next trip. "Keep on Rolling" From South Carolina, Brett Easterling read more

I've done a lot of traveling and vacationing, and this experience takes the cake. Jason was extremely communicative and easy to work with, both through email and phone, and he runs his charters in the most dynamic way possible - laid back but structured. He captains by the book but does so in a laid back, easy going way. I was a little nervous because of my 3 little kids (6, 4, and 2). Would Jason be good with them? Would they be ok on the boat? I wasn't sure. He was beyond fantastic with them, sincerely patient and kind, and it was not a surprise to learn he was a teacher. Beyond his great personality, he's a local and knows all the perfect spots - and those to show you from a distance but stay away from because of the "cattle boats." Guess what I'll be doing again next year? Jason, thanks for a beyond-awesome day with my kids. read more

Island Roots - My kids on the boat - Boating Near Me - St John, Virgin Islands

I took the golden hour tour (3:30-7PM), which is offered during the summer.  It was a nice option to take the family for a boat ride around the islands.  I wished we could do the day tour but unfortunately they were fully booked during the week I was there.  Captain Ryan was very knowledgeable and made our trip really informative and pleasant.   My family had a good time.  Island Root Charters has very competitive prices and they operate off St John.  They will pick you up in St Thomas but there might be an extra fee for docking on a private marina, so just keep that in mind.   My only disappointment was that unfortunately another boat needed rescue and our trip got delayed 30 minutes, which in a short ride 30 minutes is a lot of fun missed.  But I can understand the situation.  Communication was great.  They kept me informed of the issue at hand.  I would definitely use their services in the future. read more

Had a blast on island roots charters! Captain Scotty guided us throughout the day and suggested some great spots for snorkeling. He was a great captain and guide for the day. You won't go wrong choosing Island Roots! read more

We did the 1/2 day sunset with Max. It was just our family of four and one of the highlights of our week in St John. In addition to enjoying the boat ride along north shore, The boat was super comfortable and we snorkeled, drove to Pizza Pi for drinks and pizza. And where we watched the sunset was incredible!!!!! read more

The day we used island charter was the best day of our trip, without a doubt. Thomas was out captain and listened to what kind of experience we were looking for and delivered above and beyond. Amazing snorkel spots all over St, John and Jost Van Dyke and in between. Make sure you go to Sydney's for fresh seafood, Thomas called our order ahead and we hit up some snorkel spots while we waited. The boat was perfect in size, my wife gets see sick and even with the choppiness while crossing to BVI, Thomas did great navigating the waves making it not feel so choppy. Boat was in great condition, and provided a little shade if you wanted to be out of sun. Snorkel gear was the best I have rented or used on the island, the next day I rented some and was missing Island charters goggles. A great experience worth every penny (best price I found on the island too) Worth spending a little more money and having your own boat, we have done the large group charters and wont be doing that again. We were spoiled by the Island Charter experience. We will make it a must do every year we come back to St. John. Thanks for a great day, see you next time! read more

We booked an extended day trip through Jason (owner) who was very diligent in communicating with us and inquiring about what type of trip we wanted. Several of us had been to St. John before and Kyle (our Capt.) did a great job of taking us to some of his favorite spots for great snorkeling and plenty of island beverages. Would definitely charter with them again. read more

Island Roots has become our charter of choice on St John because the boats, sound systems, captains, and ease of booking are reliably always excellent. The boats are very comfortable and the captains are professional, knowledgeable, and so fun! We also think it's an excellent value for what you get. read more

Highly recommend Captin Jasón from island Roots. He's extremely knowledgeable about the islands (native to St. John), great personality and ready for anything. From water proof cases for your cell phone, to wet bag for Items to stay dry on stops, providing snorkels, to raincoats for shower swells, to avoiding them all together, being the best photographer, Jason is ready for all of it. Came to celebrate my 40th and he treated us with a birthday flag. He pays attention to detail and give you details and tips on each spot. He made my trip. He's the greatest!! read more

We had a great trip with Kyle yesterday. We have chartered with IR several times and always had a great time. Highly recommend.

Would highly recommend Capt. Jason of Island Roots for your next boat charter! Capt. Jason was very easy to work with and provided excellent customer service. Will cater to your desires. We had a group of 8 which felt very comfortable onboard. If traveling to the BVIs be sure to complete the custom paperwork before hand especially if you have a large group!! The yeti cooler onboard is big enough for all your drinks, food, ice and then some! Snorkel gear was comfortable and in great condition. Last but not least, Capt. Jason is a local who grew up on this island who knows all the 'ins & outs' of the island life and culture. read more

Many thanks to Island Roots and Captain Kyle for such a great day. We booked the extended day trip as It's always the highlight of our trip. Kyle was accommodating and flexible. He took us to some new and very cool snorkel spots. We stopped at the new Willy T for some jumps and drinks and headed over to Pirates Bight for a great lunch. We spent a couple of hours at White Bay visiting our favorite spots Coco Loco and Soggy Dollar and stopped off at another different snorkel spot on the way back. Island Roots sets the bar high. Thank you for another fabulous day Kyle. We didn't want the day to end! Hope to be back soon. read more

We had an excellent day on the water with Max! Will definitely book again with Island Roots!

I cannot say enough about our excursion, it was perfect! Capt. Jason couldn't have planned our day any better! He knew exactly where to take us. He knows this island and the places to snorkel like the back of his hand. It was the snorkeling trip of a lifetime and the highlight of our trip. read more

We booked a day heading to the BVIs on www.islandrootscharters.com and the day was the best in 10+years of coming here! Jill (owner) was responsive from the time of booking anytime I had questions. That day, Captain Kyle was amazing for the entire day! We left St John and thought we knew a few things we wanted to do. He recommended a few other things too and we were off! Snorkeling, beaches and bars on other islands, sand bars in the middle of the water and even the floating taco bar. He was amazing and it was our best day on the water in years! Kyle knows hospitality and is a true professional! The boat was large, had comfortable seating and was a power boat so different from what we had done in the past. Super reasonable for pricing and everything was up front. We are ready to book again! read more

A private charter boat for your family on a sunny day in the Caribbean? Are you kidding me? Hard to think of a better way to spend a day in your life. Captain Jason is personable yet professional -- concerned for your safety yet flexible to your own priorities about an itinerary for the day. As a local resident with lots of experience on the mainland, he offers an informed perspective on St. John, its people and its history. Captain Jason was extraordinary with our kiddo -- taught our 7 year-old to snorkel, even jumping in the water to show her the ropes. You will snorkel in places with no other boats (much less people). You will see pockets of surrounding islands that other tourists won't see. You will see marine life you can't easily access from the shore. And you will learn about life in the Virgin Islands. This trip offers offers not only something for every tourist -- it helps you connect with your environment and ultimately a piece of yourself. read more

We took a half day tour around St John with Jason as our captain. The trip was perfect. Great snorkeling spots. Jason took care to make the ride nice and smooth as possible. I would definitely do this trip again. No complaints. Jason is a true professional. read more

We knew we wanted a charter to explore the islands but didn't know how to pick one and we were so lucky to have found Island Roots. If you're in doubt whether you should give up a day at the beach for this trip - stop thinking about it and book it now. This will be the best day of your vacation! Capt. Jason is personal, friendly, knowledgeable, safety conscious, anxious to please yet unobtrusive. We took the "Triangle" trip of the BVI. We explored the North Shore of St. John, and then snorkeled the Indians and Norman Island Caves (I'm new to snorkeling and Capt. Jason made sure I was comfortable and had a very special experience). We had lunch at the Willy T and island hopped at Sandy Spit. The day ended too quickly but perfectly with afternoon cocktails in White Bay. It was a top 10 day and there was nothing about it that I would have changed. read more

Island roots charters was awesome! I highly recommend them as well as captain Thomas! He was especially amazing with our two young children (ages 4 and 7). He made for such a laid back, fun, island day. He has so much knowledge about the island and surrounding areas and went above and beyond our expectations. He was willing to accommodate our ideas as well as come up with some awesome alternate suggestions. He took our oldest snorkeling, and would have been happy to the younger one as well... What a fun trip! Best charter experience we had this trip... Great prices, great service... Much better experience than our first boat charter this trip to the USVI... I won't go wrong with these folks.. read more

Spending an extended day with Jason as our captain is our absolute favorite day of vacation. Snorkeling in waterlemon key and then heading to Tortola and Jist Van Dyke... perfect day! read more

Wonderful, memorable, fun, interesting day with Thomas! We have visited St. John many times; always taking a boat trip one day each week we are there. So, we have seen many of the outlying islands and snorkel spots. Thomas was not intimidated by that! He easily recommended several spots we hadn't experienced; the most memorable being Hurricane Hole. What an amazing spot! If you haven't 'done' Hurricane Hole, look it up and head over there as fast as you can! (It is the sea's nursery.....brimming with new life among the mangrove roots.) We can't wait to return next year for our month-long St. John-Fix and will definitely book with Island Roots again. Had the pleasure of meeting Jason on our last day; what a fine young man! read more

A group of six of us rented the boat for a full day with captain Thomas. We didn't have much of a plan in terms of destinations but Thomas took the lead and exceeded all of our expectations. From the private beach, fantastic snorkeling locations, and beach bar stops, every aspect of the charter was incredible. I would highly recommend Island roots to any group looking to explore the Virgin Islands. Thomas was very accommodating to all of our requests and made things as easy as possible for all of us. I really can't say enough good things about the entire experience. Can't wait to doit again!!! read more

I have been vacationing in St. John for over 15 years and have been on several boat trips. Captain Jason was by far the most experienced and knowledgeable that I have met. He took us on a different adventure from prior trips so that we could see a new side of the Island. We saw the most amazing beaches, where we were the only people on it, seemingly untouched by other humans. Snorkeling untouched waters. It was by far my best boat trip in St. John and would recommend Island Roots to anyone I know. read more

Island Roots - Boating Near Me - St John, Virgin Islands

See all