Is a Private Catamaran Charter in Five Islands Village, Antigua Worth It?
Quick answer
A 5-hour private catamaran charter from Five Islands Village, Antigua, operated by Salt Life Tours Antigua, includes lunch and snorkelling equipment, and costs from $1,800 USD for up to 15 guests. With a 4.62 rating from 13 reviews, it suits groups seeking a flexible, crewed day on the water. This guide explains what's included, who it's for, and its limitations.
If you're considering a private catamaran charter in Antigua, you may have come across a 5-hour option departing from Five Islands Village, priced from $1,800 USD and operated by Salt Life Tours Antigua. The short answer: it's a solid choice for groups of up to 15 who want a relaxed, crewed day on the water with lunch and snorkelling gear included, but it's not a budget trip and the listing offers limited detail about the exact route. This article breaks down what you actually get, who it suits, and what to check before booking.
What's included in the private catamaran charter?
Based on the verified listing, the charter includes:
- Lunch — a meal is provided on board, though the menu and dietary options aren't specified in the listing.
- Use of snorkelling equipment — masks, fins, and snorkels are available for guests, so you don't need to bring your own.
That's the extent of the confirmed inclusions. Drinks, transport to the marina, and any additional stops are not listed as included, so it's worth asking the operator directly if you have specific expectations.
How long is the charter and what does the itinerary look like?
The charter is scheduled for 5 hours. The listing doesn't provide a detailed itinerary or specify which beaches or snorkel sites you'll visit. Given the departure location of Five Islands Village, on Antigua's west coast, you'll likely explore nearby coves and reefs, but the exact route is best confirmed with the operator before booking.
Because it's a private charter, you may have some flexibility to discuss preferences with the crew, but this isn't explicitly stated in the verified data.
Who is this charter best for?
This experience suits:
- Groups and families — with a maximum of 15 travellers, it's ideal for extended families, friend groups, or small celebrations.
- Snorkellers of all levels — equipment is provided, and the private format means you can go at your own pace.
- Those wanting a flexible, crewed day — the private setup and included lunch reduce planning stress.
It's less suited to solo travellers on a tight budget (the minimum is 1 traveller, but the cost is per charter, not per person) or to anyone seeking a large party boat scene.
What are the practical limitations?
Be aware of the following:
- Price — from $1,800 USD for the charter, which is a significant outlay unless split across a group.
- Limited itinerary detail — the listing doesn't specify stops, snorkel sites, or a precise schedule.
- No drinks mentioned — only lunch and snorkel gear are confirmed; you may want to ask about beverages.
- Pickup logistics — pickup is available, but the exact meeting point isn't stated; you'll need to contact the operator to arrange details.
How does pricing work for a private charter?
The listed price is from $1,800 USD for the charter, not per person. With a maximum of 15 guests, the per-person cost drops as your group size increases. For example, a group of 10 would pay roughly $180 per person, while a couple would pay $900 each. Keep in mind that the final price may vary by date and availability, and any extras (such as drinks or additional services) could add to the cost.
Catamaran private charter
★ 4.6 from 13 reviews
What do reviews say about the experience?
The charter holds a 4.62 rating from 13 reviews. While the review count is modest, the score suggests generally positive experiences. The listing description emphasises good value and friendly crew, but we haven't independently verified individual reviews. As with any tour, it's worth reading recent reviews yourself to gauge consistency.
What is the cancellation policy?
The cancellation policy is standard: for a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time. This gives you some flexibility, but it's advisable to confirm the exact deadline and any exceptions with the operator when booking.
How do you book and what should you confirm?
Booking is typically done online through the operator or a platform. Before you book, we recommend confirming:
- The exact departure point and pickup arrangements (the listing mentions pickup but not a specific location).
- Whether drinks are included or available for purchase.
- Any dietary restrictions for lunch.
- The cancellation policy details and any weather-related contingencies.
You can contact the operator, Salt Life Tours Antigua, directly for these details.
A private catamaran charter from Five Islands Village offers a convenient, crewed day on the water with lunch and snorkelling gear included, and it's well-suited to groups of up to 15. At from $1,800 USD, it's a premium experience, but the per-person cost becomes more reasonable as your group grows. The main caveats are the limited itinerary detail and the need to confirm logistics like pickup and drinks. If you're looking for a flexible, private outing and are comfortable with the price, it's worth considering — just reach out to Salt Life Tours Antigua with any specific questions before you book.
Catamaran private charter
★ 4.6 from 13 reviews
