Help from cruise critic friends

[blmcdps]

Hi everyone,

In St. Thomas we were thinking about renting a private boat from Ocean Runner powerboat rentals. We can rent the boat for the day and then pay 100.00 more to have a captain. Has anyone ever done this? Is it a good idea.

[cb at sea]

If you want to go boating, I guess it's a good idea!! (Since we've been on a boat, albeit a very LARGE one, boating isn't what we go ashore for!) Once you are on the boat, what did you plan to do? Just float around? Go snorkling? Visit another island? Go fishing?

[blmcdps]

We wanted to go to St. John's and go snorkling and visit different beaches. Go to the sugar plantation. We are a group of nine. Just thought a private boat would give as more flexibility.

[jimbug]

I think it's a great idea, as long as it's cost-effective. First, make sure the boat you rent is comfortable for all of you, and will safely seat 9 plus the captain. Then, compare costs - would it be cheaper for all 9 of you to charter a day sail boat that comes included with a 2-person crew, snorkel equipment, full lunch and open bar all day? Or, is it more cost-effective to rent the power boat, pay for the captain, pay for your own snorkel equipment, and bring on your own food and drinks that you had to stop somewhere to purchase?

[ED MARY ANN]

We have never done this but it sound like a very good idea,please let us know how you made out we may do it in our upcoming sept cruise on the liberty.

[blmcdps]

I will let you know how it goes if we end up doing it. How do you find a full day sail boat cruise that includes lunch and everything. That would be nice. Is it a private tour.