We had one experience while at St. Thomas which my family still unanimously calls "the best vacation day of their lives".
Through the concierge, we chartered a beautiful 45-ft Sea Ray for a day, dawn to dusk,
which had a captain and a mate. They provided a great brunch and supper on the boat.
We did the charter "without alcohol" since our kids were there (greatly reduced the cost),
as our primary focus was snorkeling, sightseeing, and exploring.
The Captain said we could go anywhere we wanted within the US & British VI, and we did need the passports.
Since I had done something similar previously (8 days on a 30-ft Morgan sailboat with 7 other guys, sailing all over VI
and sleeping/living on the boat), that was our desire----just randomly take a swing through our pre-determined highlights.
We went to the best beaches, coves, and bays of St. John, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Norman Island (caves of "Treasure Island").
We visited Trunk Bay, Cruz Bay, Cane Garden Bay, and spent about 3 hours exploring and enjoying The Baths on Virgin Gorda.
Also dived at the wreck of the Rhone....we snorkeled at various spots which we knew were good.
Our favorite snorkeling spot was at Norman Island at the mouth of the caves. The various fish were unbelievable.
The charter was costly @ $1200 for the day, but I knew it would be something special, and it was.
Ferries and taxis would be great for sightseeing on the different islands, but we wanted to combine a water adventure
with the sightseeing. Plus we saw far more than doing it any other way.
The wind in our hair as we drove around the islands was a special memory, and the stunning views from the boat
were nothing short of spectacular, and if we ever go back, we'll do that again.