FAQ
Private St Thomas Tours FAQ
Everything cruise passengers ask before booking a private St Thomas shore excursion.
Are private St Thomas tours good for cruise passengers?
Yes. Private tours are well suited to cruise passengers because they offer flexible pacing, private transport and the chance to combine beaches, viewpoints, shopping and sightseeing in one day. They are particularly useful when port time is limited and you want to make every hour count without waiting around for a large group.
What is the best private tour in St Thomas?
The best private tour depends on your group. Choose the Private Coastal Drive & Sapphire Beach Break for a scenic drive with proper beach time; the Private Jeep Adventure for a more energetic open air island experience; or the Private Vehicle Half Day Tour for maximum flexibility and a fully custom itinerary.
Can private tours pick up from the cruise port?
Some private tours leave from the cruise ship pier directly, making embarkation simple. However, meeting instructions vary by product and by whether your ship docks at Havensight or Crown Bay. Always check your specific booking confirmation and confirm the pickup location with your tour operator in advance.
Can we choose our own itinerary on a private tour?
The Private Vehicle Half Day Tour is specifically designed for flexible custom planning, your group works with the driver to shape the route around beaches, viewpoints, shopping or sightseeing. Other private tours may follow a more structured route (such as the Sapphire Beach coastal drive) but still offer the benefit of private transport and a smaller, more relaxed group experience.
Are private tours better for families?
Yes, families often prefer private tours because they allow a more relaxed pace, fewer delays and easier planning around children or mixed age groups. You can stop when you need to, adjust the schedule on the day and spend more or less time at each location without waiting for other guests to be ready.
Can we include beach time on a private tour?
Yes. Several private St Thomas tours include beach time, most notably the Private Coastal Drive & Sapphire Beach Break which features around 2.5 hours at Sapphire Beach. The Private Vehicle Half Day Tour can also be planned to include a beach stop. Note that beach portions may not suit ships with very early departure times (2pm or earlier), so always check your itinerary timing before booking.
Are private St Thomas tours wheelchair accessible?
Accessibility varies by tour. Some private tours, including the Sapphire Beach coastal drive, are not suitable for guests using wheelchairs or mobility scooters. Always check the specific accessibility restrictions for the tour you are interested in before booking, and contact the operator directly if you need to discuss your requirements.
Do private tours include food and drinks?
Food and drinks are generally not included in private tour prices. Most tours pass beach bars, restaurants or shopping areas where guests can purchase refreshments. Beach chairs, umbrellas, snorkelling gear and watersports may also carry additional costs at beach stops. Check the inclusions carefully before booking and bring some cash or card for extras on the day.
How long are private St Thomas tours?
Most private St Thomas tours run for around 4 hours, which fits comfortably within a standard cruise port day. This duration allows time for sightseeing, a beach stop and a comfortable return to the ship before all aboard. Exact duration depends on the specific tour, the itinerary and your group's pace, always confirm the expected run time when booking.
Should I book a private tour in advance?
Yes, advance booking is strongly recommended for private tours. Availability is limited by vehicle and driver capacity, and the best private operators fill up quickly on busy cruise days when multiple ships are in port. Booking before your cruise locks in your preferred tour, avoids pier side disappointment and often gives you more time to plan your day around the excursion.
