Frequently Asked Questions
Reservation FAQS
WHAT IS THE BEST WAY TO BOOK AN OCEAN SURFARI SNORKELING OR FISHING TRIP?
A: We are available to plan your trip in a way that’s convenient for you. Book online here, call us at 340-227-5448, e-mail us at [email protected], or use the contact form.
Our helpful staff will customize a trip that will be the highlight of your vacation.
DOES OCEAN SURFARI OFFER ACTIVITIES OTHER THAN FISHING?
A: We can customize your ideal charter experience, whether you're looking to sightsee throughout islands or snorkel. We invite you to contact us at 340-227-5448 for more information.
IS ST. JOHN PICKUP AVAILABLE?
A: We're pleased to offer complimentary transportation from the National Park Dock in the heart of Cruz Bay, St. John. Several other complimentary pick-up locations are available; please call us at 340-227-5448 to inquire.
WHAT ARE OCEAN SURFARI'S PAYMENT OPTIONS?
A:Â We accept VISA, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and cash payments. Cash gratuities for the crew are appreciated.
WHAT IF WEATHER CAUSES A CANCELLATION OF MY TRIP?
A:Â If inclement weather forces us to stay in the harbor, and we are unable to reschedule your trip during your stay on the islands, we will provide a full refund.
WHAT IS OCEAN SURFARI'S CANCELLATION POLICY?
A: We require a $300 deposit to confirm your charter booking, which will be charged to the credit card you provide when your reservation is made. The $300 deposit will be applied to the total cost of your charter. Cancellations made 48 hours or more in advance of your charter date will receive a full refund of the deposit, but you will forfeit your deposit for cancellations made with less than 48 hours' notice. If you need to cancel a scheduled trip for any reason, please call us at 340-227-5448. Ocean Surfari reserves the right to modify reservation policies and fees at any time.
ARE CHILDREN WELCOME ABOARD?
A:Â Absolutely! We enjoy introducing children to sport fishing and snorkeling. Our captains focus on the safety of passengers of every age. Children 2 and under are complimentary on our Reef Surfari snorkeling excursions.
Please notify us at the time of booking if you plan to bring children on your trip.
CAN I GO ON AN OCEAN SURFARI CHARTER IF I KNOW NOTHING ABOUT FISHING?
A:Â Of course! Our experienced captains will teach you everything you need to know and ensure that you have a memorable and adventurous experience.
FISHING TRIP FAQS
HOW MANY PEOPLE CAN GO ON AN OCEAN SURFARI FISHING CHARTER?
A: The fishing vessels Backlash and Hitman are USCG certified up to 6 passengers.
IS IT POSSIBLE TO GO OFFSHORE FISHING ON A 1/2 DAY TRIP?
A:Â Yes! The famous "South Drop" fishing area is only eight miles south of St. Thomas/St. John and can be reached by boat in approximately 30 minutes.
WHAT TIME DO CHARTERS DEPART?
A: Our morning charters depart between 7-8 am depending on the length of the trip and our afternoon charters depart between 12:30 and 2 pm. We depart from both American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook and the National Park dock in Cruz Bay St John.
IS THERE A BATHROOM ON THE BOAT?
A:Â Yes. All Ocean Surfari boats have bathrooms on board.
TELL ME ABOUT THE CAPTAINS WHO WILL TAKE ME FISHING?
A:Â Ocean Surfari's seasoned captains are some of the most experienced in the Caribbean. With decades of fishing and guiding experience, they are safety-minded and service-oriented professionals who have a passion for fishing and delivering excellent customer service. They offer unparalleled expertise on fish locations, line techniques, proper tackle, ocean conditions, and safe yacht operations, proven by wins by our senior captains at numerous prestigious fishing tournaments.
WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM AN OCEAN SURFARI FISHING TRIP?
A:Â Expect the time of your life! You'll travel on one of the finest charter fishing boats in the Caribbean with experienced and professional captains and crew who are focused on providing you with the ultimate charter adventure.
WHAT IS INCLUDED IN AN OCEAN SURFARI FISHING TRIP?
A:Â Included in all Ocean Surfari fishing trips are:
- An experienced captain piloting the boat
- FuelÂ
- Water, and ice
- All bait and fishing tackle (live bait when available)
- You can keep what you catch on your trip
- All U.S. Coast Guard-required safety equipment
WHAT TYPE OF FISH CAN I EXPECT TO REEL IN?
A:Â Offshore fish that are most often targeted include:
- Blue Marlin
- White Marlin
- Mahi Mahi
- Yellowfin Tuna
- Blackfin Tuna
- Wahoo
- Sailfish
- Shark
Inshore fish that are most often targeted include:
- Kingfish
- Bonita
- Barracuda
- Snapper
- Permit
- Tarpon
- Jacks
- Grouper
- Mackerel
- Shark
CAN I FISH FOR A SPECIFIC SPECIES?
A:Â Our captains and crew make every effort to target your fish of choice, but your catch will depend on the time of year, fishing location, and sea conditions.
DAY OF CHARTERS FAQS
WHAT SHOULD I BRING ON A FISHING TRIP?
A: We recommend protecting yourself from the sun by bringing sunscreen, a hat, and polarized sunglasses. It's a good idea to wear a long-sleeved shirt and bring a light jacket in case of rain. Your snacks and/or lunch are welcome on our boats. A camera to snap your catch of the day is also good to bring. Call us at 340-227-5448 with any questions about what to bring on the day of your charter.
DO I NEED A FISHING LICENSE?
A: Our guests are covered by the fishing licenses that Ocean Surfari carries; individual licenses are not required for fishing in U.S. Virgin Island waters. Different rules and costs apply for fishing in the British Virgin Islands; please call us at 284-541-3074 for details.
WILL I GET SEA SICK ON A FISHING TRIP?
A:Â If you are prone to sea sickness, consider taking motion sickness medication the evening prior to your trip and about 30 minutes before departure. Another option is to get a prescription motion sickness patch or medication before you travel. Please discuss your needs with your doctor prior to your trip to the Virgin Islands.
IF I CATCH A FISH, CAN I TAKE IT BACK TO MY RESORT?
A:Â Yes, you can keep what you catch! Guests are welcome to take as much fish as they can utilize during their stay on the island. Â Several resorts and restaurants on island are happy to cook your catch! Marlin are catch-and-release only.
CAN OCEAN SURFARI CLEAN THE FISH I CATCH?
A: We offer complimentary filleting for your catch, keep all the fish you wish!
CAN I MOUNT MY CATCH?
A:Â Yes, we are happy to arrange for your trophy fish to be mounted. We partner with fish mounting specialist Grey Taxidermy, which has been in the marine taxidermy business for more than 50 years.
SNORKELING FAQS
HOW LARGE A GROUP CAN I BRING SNORKELING?
A: The Reef Surfari can comfortably accommodate 49 adults. Call for private charter pricing for groups of 12 or more at (340) 227-5448
CAN I BRING CHILDREN SNORKELING?
A: Yes. While snorkeling on the Reef Surfari is not recommended for very young children due to the nature of the event. Young people love to snorkel and are welcome as long as they are good to excellent swimmers. If you have a child under 2 in your party, you must call us direct and book over the phone.
WHERE DO I GO TO BEGIN MY SNORKELING ADVENTURE?
A: Excursions begin at our Ocean Surfari store at 6300 Smith Bay Road, next to the Red Hook Ferry terminal. Come early and feed the Monster Tarpon from our dock!
WHAT DOES IT COST TO SNORKEL WITH OCEAN SURFARI?
A: $75 for adults; $45 for children under 12. Children under the age of 2 are free. If you have a child under 2 in your party, you must call us direct and book over the phone.
IS THERE A BATHROOM ON THE BOAT?
A: Yes, all Ocean Surfari boats are bathroom equipped. The Reef Surfari also serves complimentary beverages on board.
CAN ST. JOHN VISITORS ENJOY REEF SURFARI SNORKELING?
A: Absolutely, we pick up and return snorkeling guests on Cruz Bay, St. John.