Reviewed · ST JOHN TOURS
St Thomas Private Group Tour (11 or more ppl)
Steer your own day across St. Thomas. This private group tour gives 11 or more people a guide, private transportation, and room to shape the outing around beaches, views, shopping, or food. I like the custom itinerary and the choice between an air-conditioned van and an open-air safari vehicle. I also like that pickup and drop-off at a port or hotel are included. The main catch is that flexibility requires a plan, and the island roads can make the ride bumpy and fast-paced.
At $82 per person, the price makes the most sense for a larger group that wants to stay together. You are not paying for a fixed bus route, and your guide can adjust the day to your interests. Still, this is not a low-cost beach shuttle, and admission to Magens Bay is extra. Clarify the current beach fee before you go, since the supplied details list both $5 and $7.
In This Review
- Key points to know
- A private St. Thomas day built around your group
- Choosing between the van and safari vehicle
- Charlotte Amalie: shopping, buildings, and a flexible first hour
- Mountain Top: island views and a short refreshment stop
- Skyline Drive: a quick look at both sides of St. Thomas
- Drake’s Seat: the most useful overlook for Magens Bay
- Magens Bay: the classic beach choice
- Sapphire Beach: clear water and neighboring island views
- Coki Point Beach: snorkeling and local food
- What $82 per person buys your group
- How to make the flexible format work
- Who should book this tour?
- Should you book the St. Thomas private group tour?
- FAQ
- How long does the private St. Thomas tour last?
- How many people can join the private tour?
- Is transportation included?
- Can my group choose the itinerary?
- Is lunch included?
- Is admission to Magens Bay included?
- Can people using wheelchairs or scooters join?
- What is the cancellation policy?
Key points to know
- Private access for 11 or more people: Your group has the vehicle and guide to itself.
- Flexible route: You can focus on shopping, overlooks, beaches, food, or a mix of all four.
- Two-hour beach choices: Magens Bay, Sapphire Beach, and Coki Point Beach each offer a different kind of stop.
- Strong island views: Mountain Top, Skyline Drive, and Drake’s Seat show off both the Atlantic and Caribbean sides.
- Port and hotel pickup included: This is useful for cruise passengers and groups staying around St. Thomas.
- Plan ahead: The tour is booked about 27 days in advance on average, and the group should agree on priorities before pickup.
A private St. Thomas day built around your group

This four-to-six-hour outing is best understood as a private island loop, not a rigid sightseeing package. You can use the suggested stops as a framework, then ask your guide to spend more time where your group cares most.
That matters with 11 or more people. Large groups often lose time waiting for stragglers, choosing a restaurant, or deciding between a beach and a viewpoint. Here, you can settle those choices before the vehicle arrives and keep the day moving.
The guide provides live commentary, navigation, and help shaping the route. One important point came through clearly in the feedback: the driver was pleasant and accommodating, but some people did not realize they were expected to bring an idea of what they wanted to see.
So I would make a short group plan before the tour. Pick two main goals and one backup. For example, you might choose Charlotte Amalie and Magens Bay as priorities, with Mountain Top as the extra stop if time allows. That simple bit of planning should make the private format work much better.
A few more tours of this kind worth a look:
- Night Kayak Tour St. John – Westin Resort
★ 4.5 · 1,011 reviews - Two-Tank Morning Dive Trip for Certified Divers
★ 5.0 · 602 reviews - Coral World Ocean Park General Admission Ticket
★ 4.5 · 442 reviews
Choosing between the van and safari vehicle

You can ride in an air-conditioned van or an open-air safari vehicle. The van is the safer comfort choice if your group wants shade, cool air, and a calmer ride between stops.
The safari vehicle gives you a more open view while moving around the island. It may suit a group that wants to feel the island air and take in the views as it goes. The tradeoff is exposure to the weather and less control over comfort.
The roads are not perfectly smooth. One direct account describes the ride as bumpy and fast-paced, so anyone sensitive to motion should keep that in mind. The hills and winding roads are part of getting around St. Thomas, but the driving style may not suit every group.
Ask about the vehicle when you book, especially if your group includes older people, young children, or anyone who prefers a steadier ride. The available information says no wheelchairs or scooters can be accommodated.
Charlotte Amalie: shopping, buildings, and a flexible first hour

Charlotte Amalie is the most urban stop on the route. You can browse jewelry, souvenirs, gifts, and clothing, or use the hour to look at the old buildings and architecture.
The best feature here is choice. One person can shop while another takes photos, and the group can stop for a meal if that suits the schedule. Lunch is not included, so this is a natural place to buy food, though you should remember that a meal will add to the tour cost.
An hour is enough for a sample of downtown, but not enough for a slow shopping day plus a long restaurant stop. If shopping is your main goal, tell the guide at the beginning and consider cutting one of the shorter viewpoints.
For cruise passengers, pickup and return make this stop especially practical. You do not have to arrange separate transport for a large party, and the guide can help keep the route organized.
Mountain Top: island views and a short refreshment stop
Mountain Top is described as the highest accessible point on St. Thomas. The stop lasts about 30 minutes, giving you time to look out toward neighboring islands, visit the bar, and browse the gift shop.
This is a classic viewpoint stop, and it works well for a group that wants a big view without spending a long time away from the beaches. A drink or a small purchase here is extra, so bring some spending money if you want to use the bar or shop.
The limitation is time. Thirty minutes will give you a look and a few photos, but not a long visit. If the group prefers swimming, you may decide that this is less valuable than staying at a beach. If you want broad island views, it is an efficient stop.
A completely different way to spend a day in Cruz Bay:
- St Thomas Shore Excursion: Shopping, Sightseeing and Beach Tour
★ 4.0 · 367 reviews - Book Your Private Two and a Half Hour Island Tour today!
★ 5.0 · 312 reviews - Kayak & Snorkel with Sea Turtles, National Park, St. John
★ 5.0 · 291 reviews - St. John Full-Day Lime Out Snorkel Taco Lunch & Open Bar – Westin
★ 5.0 · 289 reviews
Skyline Drive: a quick look at both sides of St. Thomas

Skyline Drive takes about 20 minutes and includes a lookout with views toward both the Atlantic and Caribbean sides of St. Thomas. It is a brief stop, but it helps you understand the island’s high ridges and coastal shape.
I would treat this as a photo stop, not a major attraction. Twenty minutes is enough to get out, take in the view, and return to the vehicle. It also gives the guide a chance to point out parts of the island as you move between downtown and the beaches.
Because the tour is private, your group can decide if this short stop is worth keeping. People who want a full beach day may prefer to pass it by. Those who enjoy viewpoints will likely appreciate the quick change of scene.
Drake’s Seat: the most useful overlook for Magens Bay

Drake’s Seat is another short viewpoint, with about 20 minutes allotted. From here, you can look down toward Magens Bay Beach and out toward the water.
The stop carries a bit of historical color. The site is associated with the privateer Sir Francis Drake, who was said to use the position to watch ships approaching from the Atlantic. The practical appeal today is the view, especially if Magens Bay is part of your plan.
This is a good place to see the bay before deciding how long you want to spend on the sand. It is also a strong photo stop for people who want a high view rather than only a beach-level visit.
With both Skyline Drive and Drake’s Seat included as short stops, your group should watch the clock. Keeping every viewpoint plus two long beach stops may push the outing beyond four hours and closer to six.
Magens Bay: the classic beach choice

Magens Bay Beach is the longest beach stop described here, with about two hours set aside. It is roughly one mile long, with white sand and open water views. The plan is simple: relax, listen to the waves, and spend time by the water.
The two-hour window is useful because a large group needs time to get settled. You may want to swim, sit on the sand, take photos, or simply enjoy a slower pause after the hill roads.
Admission is not included. The supplied information gives two different amounts, $5 and $7 per person, so confirm the current fee before the tour. That small admission charge can add up with 11 or more people, especially when combined with lunch, drinks, and purchases.
Magens Bay is likely the best choice if your group wants one well-known beach and does not want to move again. The drawback is that spending two hours here leaves less time for Sapphire or Coki Point. Do not expect to enjoy all three beaches properly during a four-hour outing.
Sapphire Beach: clear water and neighboring island views

Sapphire Beach is also given two hours. It is located at Sapphire Beach Resort and is described as having clear turquoise water, pleasant surroundings, and views of nearby islands.
This stop may suit your group if you want a beach break with a different setting from Magens Bay. The information provided does not list an admission charge for Sapphire Beach, which makes it worth asking about if you are comparing beach options.
As with Magens Bay, the two-hour timing suggests a proper beach visit rather than a quick photo stop. You should decide in advance if swimming and resting matter more than downtown shopping or the high overlooks.
The guide can help you choose, but the final call belongs to your group. That is the benefit of a private outing, and also its responsibility.
Coki Point Beach: snorkeling and local food

Coki Point Beach is next to Coral World and is described as a local favorite. It is known for snorkeling, local food vendors, and fish that may come close if fed.
This is the most activity-focused beach on the suggested route. If some people in your group want to get in the water while others want food or a relaxed beach setting, Coki Point may offer more variety than a pure sun-and-sand stop.
The plan allows two hours here, which gives you time to settle in and try the water. Food is not included, so purchases from local vendors are your responsibility. The supplied details do not state an admission fee for Coki Point, so ask the guide or operator about any current charges.
Because Coki Point is close to Coral World, it may be tempting to add that attraction. Do not assume it is part of this tour. The listed stop is Coki Point Beach, and the package only includes the private tour, guide, commentary, and transport.
What $82 per person buys your group
The $82 price includes port or hotel pickup and drop-off, a private St. Thomas tour, a professional guide, and live commentary. For a group of 11 or more, that can be fair value because you are sharing the cost of a dedicated vehicle and guide rather than buying separate rides for each person.
The value rises if pickup saves your group from arranging taxis. It also rises if your party has mixed interests. A fixed tour might force everyone through the same schedule, while this format lets you favor shopping, viewpoints, or beaches.
The value falls if your group wants only one beach and plans to spend most of the day there. In that case, a simpler transfer or beach arrangement might cost less. You also need to budget for lunch, drinks, gifts, and beach admission.
The tour is booked about 27 days ahead on average. That is a useful planning clue for large parties. If you are visiting by cruise ship or traveling during a busy period, booking early gives your group more time to agree on the route.
How to make the flexible format work
Before pickup, ask each person to name one priority. Then choose a short route that fits the four-to-six-hour window.
Here are three sensible approaches:
- Views and town: Charlotte Amalie, Mountain Top, Skyline Drive, and Drake’s Seat.
- Town and one beach: Charlotte Amalie, one viewpoint, and two hours at Magens Bay, Sapphire, or Coki Point.
- Beach-focused: Choose one or two beaches and skip most of the short overlooks.
Trying to include Charlotte Amalie, all three overlooks, and all three beaches would create a rushed day. The listed times alone add up to far more than four hours, even before driving between stops. Treat the route as a menu, not a promise that every stop will fit.
Tell the guide your priorities early. The guide can suggest an order and provide commentary, but the feedback shows that the experience works best when the group gives clear direction.
Who should book this tour?
I would recommend it to a large family, wedding party, cruise group, or group of friends who want to stay together. It is especially useful when people have different ideas about the day and you want one vehicle instead of several taxis.
It also suits people who want a broad introduction to St. Thomas. You can see Charlotte Amalie, high viewpoints, and a major beach in one outing, then decide what deserves a longer visit later.
I would be more cautious if your group dislikes winding roads, needs wheelchair or scooter access, or wants a perfectly timed sightseeing schedule. The ride may feel bumpy, and the flexible format puts more planning on you.
You should also be comfortable with extra costs. Lunch, drinks, shopping, and at least one beach admission are not covered in the $82 price.
Should you book the St. Thomas private group tour?
Book it if your group has 11 or more people, values private transport, and wants control over the day. The guide’s local commentary and the mix of town, viewpoints, and beaches give you a useful first look at St. Thomas without forcing you into a single fixed route.
Do not book it expecting a fully planned luxury day where every choice is made for you. Bring a simple itinerary, confirm the beach fee, choose your vehicle preference, and decide which two stops matter most.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time. Changes or cancellations inside that window are not refundable, and the activity may be changed or refunded if its minimum group requirement is not met.
FAQ
How long does the private St. Thomas tour last?
The tour lasts approximately four to six hours.
How many people can join the private tour?
The experience is designed for groups of 11 or more people. You should contact the operator for a group larger than 15 people.
Is transportation included?
Yes. Port or hotel pickup and drop-off are included, with transportation provided by either an air-conditioned van or an open-air safari vehicle.
Can my group choose the itinerary?
Yes. The tour is private and customizable within the available time. Your group can choose where to go, or the guide can offer suggestions if you are unsure.
Is lunch included?
No. Lunch is not included in the tour price.
Is admission to Magens Bay included?
No. The supplied information lists a separate per-person admission fee, with both $5 and $7 shown in different sections. Confirm the current amount before departure.
Can people using wheelchairs or scooters join?
No. The additional information says wheelchairs and scooters cannot be accommodated.
What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel at least 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Cancellations or changes made less than 24 hours before the start time are not accepted for a refund.
Just added in Cruz Bay
- SPECIAL – (Up to 4 Passengers) All Inclusive Day Sail★ 5.0 · 3 reviews
- Full Day Saint Thomas Private Group Excursion★ 5.0 · 3 reviews
- St John -Jeep Ride with A Guide! Customize Itinerary Your Way!★ 5.0 · 4 reviews
- Learn to Sail – Sailing Lessons All Inclusive★ 5.0 · 4 reviews
- Exclusive Airport Transfers (up to 4 persons) One-Way★ 5.0 · 6 reviews
- Shared VIP Shuttle from Westin Frenchman’s Reef to STT Airport★ 5.0 · 7 reviews
- Private St John Tour including Trunk Bay★ 3.5 · 7 reviews
- Budget Trunk Bay Beach with Scenic Stops★ 4.0 · 8 reviews
St John Tours, compared.

Two-Tank Morning Dive Trip for Certified Divers
Read our review →
Coral World Ocean Park General Admission Ticket
Read our review →
St Thomas Shore Excursion: Shopping, Sightseeing and Beach Tour
Read our review →
Book Your Private Two and a Half Hour Island Tour today!
Read our review →
Kayak & Snorkel with Sea Turtles, National Park, St. John
Read our review →
St. John Full-Day Lime Out Snorkel Taco Lunch & Open Bar – Westin
Read our review →
St. John Days End Sunset Sail Open Bar & Hors D’oeuvres – Westin
Read our review →Browse the lists this tour appears in

