Good Morning Everyone! We have seasonally published a report in regards to restaurant closures during the peak months of hurricane season for the past few years. But, a question that I see popping up all over the place is in regards to boat charters during the off season.
During this time of year, a lot of the boat owners on St. John relocate and/or haul out their vessels for the off season months. There are a few reasons for this…For starters, some boat insurance actually requires that the vessel be outside of a certain “hurricane zone” during the peak times of year. Many boat owners will plan to haul out this time of year for scheduled maintenance or to simply take a vacation with the peace of mind that their boat is safe and strapped down in the event of a storm. This is all great for the safety of some of our favorite charter boats, but it leaves folks who are vacationing this time of year with slim pickins when it comes to going for a play day on the water during the off season months. So, I thought it might be time to start publishing a list of boats that are in the water and available for charter from August to November!
If you have been scouring websites and Facebook pages in an attempt to find the perfect charter for your boat day, then look no further! Shades of Blue Charters recently brought a newly remodeled, super fast and fancy vessel to the USVI and they will take you anywhere you want to go in our local waters!
I’m sure you’ve all been actively watching the COVID-19 statistics on St. John and wondering what it means for your travel plans. Governor Albert Bryan Jr. shared some insight today at the weekly press conference that will hopefully answer some of your questions!
Happy Fri-yay!!! We have been seeing A LOT of amazing yachts in the harbors over the past few weeks. I have been taking some pictures along the way and my curiosity got the best of me. So I did a little digging on these dream yachts and this is what I’ve found…..
Since the storms of 2017 swept boats from Cruz Bay harbor against the iconic shoreline adjacent to the ferry dock, questions have been buzzing about the progress of the Wharfside complex. Today, you’ll see the beach cleared of debris and construction work and popular businesses with their doors now open. But there are some new things happening at Wharfside as well!
A lot of you out there are probably in the midst of the beginnings of some chilly weather in the states. You’re likely starting to daydream about your annual winter warm up. Let the vacation planning begin! What better way to spend a day on St. John than being on the water aboard Love City’s newest luxury charter boat?
We have gone fishing on charters in the Caribbean, Florida, Great Lakes, and other places around the world. It seems on every fishing charter while waiting for the first bite, the conversation turns to wanting to catch a blue marlin (or big tuna).
I’m sure that everyone has been wondering what’s going on with the British Virgin Islands….Well , right now they stand as CLOSED until at least September 1. But, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t plan to get out on the water while you’re here. And one of St. John’s newest boats, The Salt Deck, offers a unique experience in and of itself!
Looking for a day on the water while you’re visiting St. John? Well, Captain Jason Siska and his company, Island Roots Charters, is a great option if you really want to get to know St. John and her surrounding waters!
Captain Jason was born on St. John and has spent most of his life exploring our local waters and the BVI. A VI Fire Fighter and First Responder, as well as a previous contestant on the hit reality TV show, Survivor, we’re confident he’ll make sure you have a safe, informative and exciting day in the VI!
Captain Jason on Survivor!
Now, let’s talk about this gorgeous vessel! Island Roots is a 32 foot World Cat with ample, comfortable seating for up to 12 guests. The extended Bimini is perfect for catching some shade on the rear seats while the wrap around bow seating is ideal for upping your daily dose of Vitamin D.
Comfortable seating in the sunshine on Island Roots.
A state of the art Bluetooth stereo system lets you customize your soundtrack for the day. The swim platform and oversized boarding ladder in the back allow for easy re-entry after a perfect snorkel or float.
And as far as unique snorkeling experiences are concerned, Captain Jason and his team has you covered! Island Roots is ONE OF SIX tour operators with permitted access to the Coral Reef National Monument waters. That includes Hurricane Hole on St. John’s East End, voted into the top five places to snorkel in the Virgin Islands in 2020 by “Outside Pursuits.”
Underwater exploration – Photo by Steve Simonsen.
Much of the over 18,000 acres of protected, submerged lands within the National Park and Monument’s waters are only accessible by boat. The Island Roots team and Captain Jason’s YEARS of experience in our waters will definitely help you discover some new favorites to explore!
Hurricane Hole.St. John.U.S. Virgin Islands
Looking for more than snorkeling? They’ve got you covered there too! Island Roots is home to an array of water toys! If you want to try your hand at kitesurfing, the boat has training kites for the beginners and they know some of the best spots to take you to catch the breeze. Looking to add to your underwater exploration? They carry Subwings for a fast underwater ride and lion fish hunting spears and lobster snares if you want to return from the day with a fresh caught dinner.
Saving the underwater world, one Lionfish at a time!
Cliff jumping stops and numerous land based excursions further extend adventurous offerings you’ll enjoy on Island Roots. If you’re a first timer at any of this, the crew, backed with years of in and on the water experience, will happily show you the ropes.
If you’re simply in search of a relaxing day of floating and sipping, you can do just that on one of Island Roots’ oversize pool floats. Zip out to Christmas Cove and float the day away with a slice of pizza in your hand. Or, cruise over to Coral Bay to do the same with some tacos and tequila from Lime Out. Between those and MULTIPLE land based bars and restaurants accessible by water, you can experience the fun of a day spent bar hopping on Island Roots without ever leaving the USVI.
Float away with Island Roots.
Take advantage of their current summer specials! Contact Captain Jason today to customize your perfect day on the water with Island Roots for an unforgettable experience in the USVI.
Check out their website for more information or to book directly online or contact Island Roots Charters directly at 340-643-5000 or[email protected]. Want to keep up on their adventures? Follow them on Instagram and Trip Advisor to see the full guest experience!
