Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise in St. Lucia

REVIEW · ST LUCIA

Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise in St. Lucia

  • 5.0113 reviews
  • From $2
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Operated by Hackshaw's Boat Charters St. Lucia · Bookable on Viator

Marigot Bay looks better when it’s quiet. This private St. Lucia catamaran day pairs a 50ft power catamaran with custom-feeling stops and a crew that keeps things easy. You’ll glide past classic sights without the cattle-car vibe.

What I really like here: the included rum punch and local fruit snacks make the whole trip feel like a floating lounge, not a rushed excursion. I also love the way you get snorkeling gear included plus a route that works for photos and sea time.

One thing to keep in mind is that the day can flex. The tour runs about 4 to 8 hours, and snorkeling at the marine reserve is only possible if conditions cooperate.

Key highlights worth planning around

Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise in St. Lucia - Key highlights worth planning around

  • Private group up to 8: you’re not sharing the boat with strangers
  • Lady Anne comfort: 50ft power catamaran with A/C access and a restroom onboard
  • Drinks included: rum punch, beer (a case), local rums, juices, soft drinks, and water
  • Snorkel-ready: snorkeling equipment is provided, and a marine reserve stop may happen
  • Scenic St. Lucia route: Castries, Marigot Bay’s Hidden Gym, Anse La Ray, and Canaries
  • Crew energy: hosts and captain aim to make it feel like a special day (including birthdays)

Why this private catamaran feels like a real upgrade

Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise in St. Lucia - Why this private catamaran feels like a real upgrade
If you’re already in St. Lucia, you’ve probably seen the “big tour bus” version of the island. This cruise is the opposite. You step onto the Lady Anne, a 50ft power catamaran, and the vibe shifts to slower, calmer, more personal.

The sweet spot is how the day balances two things people usually struggle to get at once: good time on the water and time on shore for the views. The itinerary threads through places like Castries (the capital port) and Marigot Bay while giving you quiet time away from crowds. That matters because St. Lucia is gorgeous, and you want the photos and the peace.

Also, this is priced per group (up to 8). That’s important. Instead of paying “per person for seats,” you’re buying a full boat day that you can split in a way that still feels like a treat.

You can also read our reviews of more boat tours in St Lucia

Price and value: $2,000 for up to 8 (and when it’s worth it)

The price is $2,000 per group, with capacity for up to 8 passengers. If you’re a couple, it can feel like a splurge. If you’re a small family, group of friends, or celebrating something, it can start to look very reasonable compared with doing multiple separate activities.

Here’s the value math that usually clicks:

  • You get complimentary alcoholic beverages plus soft drinks, juices, mineral water, and a case of beer included.
  • You get snacks (local fruit and snacks served throughout).
  • You get snorkeling equipment included, and the route is built around scenic stops.
  • You get private transportation and cruise ship pickup by boat in Castries, so you’re not piecing together logistics.

The main “watch this” is that the cruise includes drinks and snacks, but lunch is not included. Lunch can be catered onboard for an extra cost, or you can add beach restaurant time. If you want a full meal included, budget for that.

Getting there smoothly: Seraphine Road, private transport, and cruise-ship pickup

Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise in St. Lucia - Getting there smoothly: Seraphine Road, private transport, and cruise-ship pickup
Meeting point is Seraphine Road, Seraphine Rd, St. Lucia, and the activity ends back at the meeting point. The big practical win: you’re not left to figure out every transfer.

What’s included that helps you relax:

  • Private transportation
  • A restroom onboard
  • Cruise ship pickup by boat in Castries (useful if you’re arriving by cruise)

It also notes that it’s near public transportation and that most travelers can participate. That’s a good baseline signal if you’re trying to avoid something too niche or gear-heavy.

One more detail that matters: this is a private tour, so your group is the only group on board. If you’re traveling with kids, celebrating, or just want control over the pace, that’s where this type of charter pays off.

What’s really included on board (drinks, snacks, gear) and what costs extra

Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise in St. Lucia - What’s really included on board (drinks, snacks, gear) and what costs extra
The inclusion list is where this cruise becomes more than a “pretty boat ride.”

Included:

  • Snorkeling equipment (use of the snorkeling gear)
  • Snacks: local fruit and snacks served throughout
  • Alcoholic beverages: rum punch, local rums, soft drinks, local juices, and mineral water during the trip
  • One case of beer included
  • Air-conditioned vehicle (for the land portion)
  • Restroom onboard
  • Private transportation
  • Cruise ship pick up by boat in Castries
  • Mobile ticket

Not included:

  • Lunch (available for an extra cost; you can also discuss beach restaurant options)
  • Hotel transfers (not included)

Also, the notes say additional drinks and beers can be requested at an additional cost. In real terms: you’ll have plenty to drink from what’s included, but if you want to keep ordering specific add-ons, plan to pay.

The route: Castries to Marigot Bay’s Hidden Gym and the fishing villages you’ll see from the water

Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise in St. Lucia - The route: Castries to Marigot Bay’s Hidden Gym and the fishing villages you’ll see from the water
This is the part of the day you feel in your eyes. You’re not just visiting one highlight. You’re moving along the coast, with water views most of the way.

You can also read our reviews of more private tours in St Lucia

Historical port Castries, St. Lucia’s capital

Castries is where the island looks most “everyday.” As a departure point, it works well because you’re starting in the real hub area, not out in the middle of nowhere. It also sets up the contrast: you leave port energy behind and head into calmer bays and classic coastal scenery.

Hidden Gym of Marigot Bay

Marigot Bay is famous for a reason: it looks like a natural setting designed for boats. The itinerary specifically calls out the Hidden Gym, and that phrase fits what you want here—less showy than the main shoreline, with a pocket-like feel.

This is often the segment where the photos go from nice to wow, because you’re surrounded by steep hills and sheltered water. It’s also the kind of stop where a little time on deck with a drink hits differently than in a cramped group tour.

Passing Anse La Ray fishing village

This one is more about the shoreline story than a long on-land stop. Passing Anse La Ray gives you a glimpse of small-scale coastal life without turning your day into a walking tour. You get that “St. Lucia in one frame” look—boats, buildings, and the coast hugging the sea.

Viewing the quaint fishing village of Canaries

Canaries is another coastal village sighting that’s best enjoyed from the water. From a charter, you can watch the coastline glide by and enjoy it as scenery rather than a checklist item.

If you love slow travel details, this section is for you. If you only want big named stops, you might wish there was more time on land—but the tradeoff is the catamaran keeps you moving without crowds.

Marine reserve snorkeling, if conditions allow

The itinerary says you’ll pass a location and, if possible, snorkel at a pristine marine reserve.

In practical terms, snorkeling here is weather-dependent. If the sea isn’t cooperating, the crew will adjust. That’s why I think this tour works best when you go in with a flexible mindset: you’re paying for the boat day, not only for one guaranteed swim.

Snorkeling expectations: gear is included, sites can vary, and conditions matter

Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise in St. Lucia - Snorkeling expectations: gear is included, sites can vary, and conditions matter
Snorkeling is one of the biggest reasons people choose this kind of private cruise. The good news: you don’t need to shop for gear. Snorkeling equipment is included.

What you should plan for:

  • Snorkeling is offered only if possible at the marine reserve stop.
  • The crew can take you to spots that match conditions. In the feedback you’ll see mention of snorkeling around areas described as Sugar Beach and near Jade Mountain. I’d treat that as “possible targets,” not a promise, but it’s a helpful clue about the kind of water you’re aiming for.

Also, this matters: you’re on a private boat. That usually means less rushing. Even if you only get one snorkeling window, it tends to feel more relaxed, with time to gear up and get comfortable.

One more practical note: bring swimwear you don’t mind getting sandy and wet. You’ll thank yourself when you’re done and back on board with snacks and a drink.

Food and drinks: rum punch, local fruit snacks, and onboard comfort

Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise in St. Lucia - Food and drinks: rum punch, local fruit snacks, and onboard comfort
On paper, the inclusion list reads like a party package. On the water, it’s better than that. It keeps the mood light.

You’ll have:

  • Rum punch and local rums
  • Soft drinks, local juices, mineral water
  • A case of beer included
  • Local fruit and snacks served through the trip

The tone of the crew often matters as much as the menu. The feedback highlights hosts like Jade and a fun, attentive style—so the drinks and snacks don’t feel like a basic add-on. They feel like part of the experience.

If you get hungry, remember: lunch is not included, but it can be catered onboard for an additional cost, and you can discuss alternatives like beach restaurants. If you’re planning a longer day (closer to 8 hours), consider budgeting for lunch so nobody ends up waiting until everyone is hangry.

The crew and boat vibe: why people mention names like Jade and Ova

Private Luxury Catamaran Cruise in St. Lucia - The crew and boat vibe: why people mention names like Jade and Ova
A luxury cruise lives or dies on service. Here, the details show up in the way people talk about the crew.

You’ll see praise for the captain and for specific hosts—Jade gets called out repeatedly for being welcoming and helpful. You’ll also see mention of onboard food from chef Ova, described as making fresh creations. That’s the kind of onboard touch that turns a “charter” into a “memory maker,” especially for birthdays and couples trips.

The boat itself is also described as clean, spacious, and comfortable. And that’s practical, not just sentimental: a roomy 50ft catamaran means you can spread out, find shade or sun, and keep the day from feeling cramped.

Who should book this cruise (and who should reconsider)

This cruise is a strong match if you want:

  • A private day on the water for a small group (up to 8)
  • Scenic coastal stops without crowd pressure
  • Included drinks and snacks so you don’t manage every cost
  • Snorkeling gear and a chance to snorkel at a marine reserve

It’s also a good option for couples. The short-to-medium duration and private nature make it feel romantic without being stiff.

This may not be the best fit if:

  • You want a guaranteed, uninterrupted snorkeling session. Since snorkeling is conditional, you should be okay with plan B.
  • You’re expecting lunch to be included. Lunch is extra, whether it’s catered onboard or handled at a beach spot.
  • You need full hotel transfers. The tour includes transport, but hotel transfers are not included—so you may use the provided pickup logistics or coordinate separately.

If you’re traveling with very mixed ages, you’ll likely like the flexibility and on-board setup (restroom onboard, roomy layout, and private pacing). Just remember that snorkeling always depends on sea conditions.

Booking timeline and what to do when planning a perfect day

This tour is often booked about 102 days in advance on average. That’s a good signal: if your dates matter, don’t wait for the last minute, especially if you’re traveling in peak season or you’re aiming for a specific time window.

Also, you’ll receive confirmation within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability. If you’re coordinating with other plans like beach reservations or a dinner spot, build some buffer so your schedule stays flexible.

If weather is rough, the experience notes that it requires good weather. The tour may be adjusted or offered a different date or full refund if canceled due to poor conditions. That’s another reason to keep your itinerary breathable.

Should you book? My practical take

If you want a St. Lucia day that feels like you rented the island for your group (minus the paperwork), this is a smart choice. The value is strongest when you split the group cost and actually use what’s included: drinks, snacks, snorkeling gear, and the private route.

I’d book it if:

  • You’re celebrating or just want a premium day with minimal hassle
  • You like the idea of cruising from Castries to Marigot Bay, with village views from the water
  • You’re flexible on snorkeling timing because sea conditions will decide

I’d hesitate if:

  • You can only do a strict, fixed snorkeling plan with no weather wiggle room
  • You expect lunch to be included in the base price

Bottom line: for up to 8 people, on a comfortable 50ft charter like Lady Anne, this is one of those rare “it’s worth it” splurges—especially when you want the day to feel personal, not rushed.

FAQ

How many people can go on this private catamaran cruise?

It’s priced per group and is listed for up to 8 passengers. Additional guests can be accommodated for a fee.

How long is the cruise?

The duration is approximately 4 to 8 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?

The tour starts and ends at Seraphine Road, Seraphine Rd, St. Lucia.

What’s included in the price?

Included are snorkeling equipment, local fruit and snacks, alcoholic beverages (rum punch, local rums), soft drinks/juices/mineral water, use of the restroom onboard, air-conditioned vehicle, private transportation, and cruise ship pickup by boat in Castries.

Is lunch included?

No. Lunch is not included, but it can be catered onboard for an additional cost or you can discuss beach restaurant options.

Are drinks unlimited?

The tour includes drinks during the boat trip, including rum punch and a case of beer. Additional drinks and beers can be requested for an extra cost.

Do I need my own snorkeling gear?

No. Snorkeling equipment is included for use during the tour.

Is the tour private?

Yes. It’s a private tour/activity, and only your group will participate.

Do I need to worry about weather?

Yes. The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

When will I get confirmation after booking?

Confirmation is received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability.

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