Adventure, Relaxation, and Magic Combined
Why choose between adventure and romance when you can have both? Our full day sailing with sunset tour is the ultimate Virgin Islands experience, combining everything you love about a Caribbean vacation into one perfect day on the water. Start with morning exploration, snorkeling pristine reefs, swimming in secluded bays, and discovering hidden beaches around St. Thomas and St. John. Then, as other boats return to harbor, you’ll stay on the water to witness one of nature’s most spectacular displays – a Caribbean sunset viewed from the best seat possible, the deck of a sailboat.
This extended charter departing from Sapphire Beach is for those who want to fully immerse themselves in the Virgin Islands experience. You’ll have time to truly relax into island pace, visiting multiple locations without feeling rushed, enjoying every moment from morning departure through that final golden hour when the sun paints the sky in brilliant colors. It’s the kind of day that captures everything special about the Caribbean – adventure, natural beauty, and moments of pure magic.
The Best of Both Worlds
Many of our guests struggle with choosing between our full day sailing charter and our sunset cruise because each offers something unique and wonderful. The full day with sunset tour solves that dilemma by combining both experiences into one seamless adventure. You get the comprehensive exploration and snorkeling of a full day charter, plus the romantic ambiance and stunning views of our sunset sail. It’s two incredible experiences woven together to create something even more special.
What sets this tour apart is the way the day flows naturally from active exploration to peaceful contemplation. Morning brings energy and adventure as you snorkel vibrant reefs and explore new locations. Afternoon offers that perfect Caribbean rhythm – swimming, relaxing, enjoying lunch with the gentle motion of the boat. Then as the day transitions toward evening, the mood shifts to something more magical as golden light transforms the seascape and you prepare for the main event: sunset on the water between St. Thomas and St. John.
Your Extended Day on the Water
Morning: Set Sail from Sapphire Beach
Your adventure begins mid-morning at Sapphire Beach, where you’ll meet your captain and crew. After a warm welcome and safety briefing, we’ll set sail into the beautiful waters that have made the Virgin Islands famous worldwide. The morning light is perfect for photography, and you’ll immediately understand why these islands are considered sailing paradise. As we leave Sapphire Beach behind, the day’s possibilities stretch out before you like the horizon.
Late Morning: First Snorkeling Stop
We’ll anchor at our first snorkeling location, typically a pristine reef system teeming with marine life. The morning is ideal for underwater visibility, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore the reef at your own pace. Whether you’re a snorkeling enthusiast who wants to spend an hour underwater or prefer a shorter swim, we accommodate all preferences. Spot sea turtles, colorful tropical fish, and the coral formations that make these waters so special. All snorkeling equipment is provided, and our crew offers guidance to ensure you see the best spots.
Midday: Sailing and Beach Exploration
After snorkeling, we’ll set sail for a secluded beach or cove accessible only by boat. Here you can swim in crystal-clear water, walk pristine sand, or simply float in the calm Caribbean. This is time to truly disconnect – no crowds, no schedules, just you and the beauty of the islands. Some guests choose to snorkel more, others prefer to relax on the beach or aboard the boat. The choice is yours.
Lunch: Dining in Paradise
We’ll serve lunch at a beautiful anchorage, often with dramatic views of St. John’s coastline. Enjoy your meal on deck with the gentle rocking of the boat and spectacular island scenery as your backdrop. This midday break is perfect for recharging before the afternoon adventures, and the relaxed island pace means there’s never any rush. Take your time, enjoy the moment, soak in the environment.
Afternoon: More Exploration
The afternoon brings more opportunities for snorkeling, swimming, or simply enjoying the sailing experience. We might visit a second reef system offering different marine life, anchor at another secluded spot for swimming, or sail to a location known for exceptional beauty. Your preferences help shape the afternoon itinerary. Want to maximize snorkeling? Prefer beach time? Looking to learn about sailing? We adapt to what you want from your day.
Late Afternoon: Transition to Sunset Mode
As other day charters return to harbor, you’ll stay on the water, and this is where the magic really begins. We’ll position the boat in the perfect location for sunset viewing, often in a different area than the day’s earlier stops. The late afternoon light – what photographers call the golden hour – bathes everything in warm, beautiful tones. The water takes on deeper shades of blue and turquoise, the islands create dramatic silhouettes, and anticipation builds for the main event.
Sunset: The Grand Finale
As the sun approaches the horizon, we’ll ensure you have the best possible vantage point. Watch as the sky transforms into an artist’s palette of oranges, pinks, and purples. The water reflects these colors, creating a 360-degree spectacle. This is one of those moments that stays with you long after your vacation ends. Floating on calm Caribbean waters, islands surrounding you, with one of nature’s most beautiful displays unfolding overhead. You’ll understand why sailors and romantics have been drawn to sunset sails throughout history.
Evening Return to Sapphire Beach
After the sun sets and the sky transitions through twilight’s final colors, we’ll make our way back to Sapphire Beach. The evening sail is peaceful and beautiful in its own way, with the lights of St. Thomas beginning to twinkle along the hillsides. You’ll return happy, tired in the best possible way, and with a day’s worth of incredible memories.
Cruise Details
Duration: 8-10 hours, providing the most comprehensive Virgin Islands sailing experience we offer
Departure: Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas, USVI – depart mid-morning, return early evening after sunset
Sailing Area: Extensive exploration of waters between St. Thomas and St. John, including multiple snorkeling sites, beaches, and the best sunset viewing locations
Experience Level: Perfect for all experience levels. No sailing or snorkeling experience necessary – our crew provides all instruction and assistance needed
Group Options: Available as shared, private or Larger Group charter. Private charters recommended for special occasions, anniversaries, proposals, or groups wanting a completely customized experience
What to Bring: Reef-safe sunscreen, towel, camera, hat, sunglasses, light jacket or cover-up for the evening breeze, any personal items for the extended day
Our Reviews
Everything Included for Your Extended Adventure
Full Day Charter Experience: 8-10 hours, providing the most comprehensive Virgin Islands sailing experience we offer
Sunset Cruise: Sapphire Beach, St. Thomas, USVI – depart mid-morning, return early evening after sunset
Professional Crew: Extensive exploration of waters between St. Thomas and St. John, including multiple snorkeling sites, beaches, and the best sunset viewing locations
Snorkeling Equipment: Perfect for all experience levels. No sailing or snorkeling experience necessary – our crew provides all instruction and assistance needed
Meals & Beverages: Available as shared, private or Larger Group charter. Private charters recommended for special occasions, anniversaries, proposals, or groups wanting a completely customized experience
Safety Equipment: Reef-safe sunscreen, towel, camera, hat, sunglasses, light jacket or cover-up for the evening breeze, any personal items for the extended day
Flexible Itinerary: While we have carefully planned routes, your preferences matter. We can adjust the day’s focus based on what you most want to experience
Perfect For Special Occasions and Ultimate Experiences
The full day with sunset tour is our most popular option for celebrating special moments. Many couples choose this extended charter for proposals, honeymoons, or anniversaries because it offers both adventure and romance in perfect balance. The comprehensive nature of the day makes it ideal for those who want to experience as much as possible during their Virgin Islands visit, while the sunset finale provides that magical moment that elevates the entire experience.
Families appreciate having the full day together on the water without feeling rushed between activities. Friend groups celebrating reunions or special trips find the extended format allows everyone to participate in their preferred activities while still sharing the overall experience. For anyone who loves being on the water, this tour provides the most complete immersion in Caribbean sailing life.
This is also the perfect choice for guests who have limited time in the Virgin Islands but want the definitive sailing experience. Rather than trying to fit multiple shorter activities into your vacation, this single day captures the essence of what makes the islands special – natural beauty, marine life, pristine beaches, and unforgettable sunsets, all accessed by sail at an unhurried pace.
Maximum Value, Minimal Crowds
While booking our full day charter and sunset cruise separately is possible, combining them offers better value and a more cohesive experience. You’ll spend the entire day with the same crew who get to know your preferences, you won’t waste time returning to shore and going back out for sunset, and the natural flow from day to evening creates something more special than two separate tours.
Additionally, by staying on the water through late afternoon and sunset, you avoid the crowded sunset cruises that depart from busy harbors. Your sunset viewing will be from a less congested area, often with just your group and the natural beauty of the Virgin Islands. This is the difference between a tourist experience and something genuinely special.
Why Sapphire Beach Departure Makes a Difference
Starting and ending at Sapphire Beach provides significant advantages for an extended charter. The east end location means quick access to the best sailing and snorkeling areas around both St. Thomas and St. John. You’ll maximize your time actually exploring rather than motoring to and from departure points. The beach itself is beautiful, so if you arrive early or want to relax after returning, Sapphire Beach offers that option. Parking is convenient, the location is easy to find, and the setting is simply stunning – your day begins and ends in paradise.
Planning Your Extended Sailing Day
Book Early
The full day with sunset tour is our most requested charter, especially during peak season and for private bookings. We recommend reserving as far in advance as possible, particularly if you have specific dates in mind or are planning around a special occasion.
Consider a Private Charter
While shared charters offer great value, many guests choose to book this extended experience as a private charter. This allows complete customization of the itinerary, ensures your group has the boat to yourselves, and creates an even more intimate experience. Perfect for proposals, anniversaries, family celebrations, or friend groups wanting their own adventure.
Timing Your Visit
The full day with sunset tour is available year-round, but each season offers something different. Winter months provide slightly cooler temperatures perfect for extended time on the water. Summer brings warmer water temperatures ideal for longer snorkeling sessions. Sunset times vary by season – we’ll time your departure to maximize both daytime activities and sunset viewing.
Prepare for Sun Exposure
An extended day on the water means prolonged sun exposure. Use reef-safe sunscreen liberally and reapply regularly. We provide shade on the boat, but bring a hat and light cover-up. The evening portion typically brings a pleasant breeze, so having a light jacket is advisable.
Book Your Ultimate Virgin Islands Experience
The full day with sunset sailing tour represents the pinnacle of what we offer at VI Day Sailing – comprehensive exploration, world-class snorkeling, pristine beaches, and one of the Caribbean’s most beautiful sunsets, all experienced from the deck of a sailboat in the waters around St. Thomas and St. John. It’s a day that captures everything special about the Virgin Islands in one perfect package.
Ready to create unforgettable memories?
Book Your Full Day with Sunset Questions about this extended tour or want to discuss a private charter? Contact us – we’re here to help plan your perfect day on the water.
We can Accommodate Larger Groups – up to 18 People!
Explore More Sailing Options
If the full day with sunset is more time than you have available, consider our full day sailing charter or sunset sailing cruise individually. Each offers an incredible experience in a shorter timeframe.
For completely customized experiences, ask about our private sailing charters where we create an itinerary tailored exactly to your preferences.
Learn more about departing from Sapphire Beach and why this location provides the best access to St. Thomas and St. John’s sailing grounds.