Private Catamaran Swim sail snorkel cliff jumping SUP

Bermuda looks best from the water, and this private catamaran gives you a floating base for swimming, snorkeling, cliff jumping, and quiet time in a sheltered cove. I like the freedom to shape the outing around your group, and I like the spacious boat, which makes sense for families or groups of friends sharing the cost. The catch is that food, drinks, towels, transport, and sunscreen are not included.

I also like the crew’s flexible approach. Captain Mark, Alex, Georgia, and other crew members have taken groups to Admiralty Park, Spanish Point, Elephant Rock, and calm coves when wind made the open water rough. Just remember to remove your shoes before boarding, and leave red wine at home.

Key points at a glance

• Private boat for up to 15 people: Your group has the catamaran to itself, with no strangers shaping the day.
• More than a sailing trip: Snorkel, swim, cliff jump, paddleboard, kayak, or simply stretch out on the front hammock.
• Flexible three-hour plan: You can request active stops or a slower sail, with sunset departures available at no extra charge.
• Useful onboard setup: A restroom, snorkeling gear, SUP, crystal kayak, cooler, grill, and Bluetooth audio system are provided.
• Weather matters: The crew can seek sheltered water, but wind may prevent sailing and poor weather can cancel the trip.
• Best shared by a group: At the full capacity, the $1,175 price works out to about $78 per person.

Bermuda from a private catamaran

The main appeal here is control. Instead of following a fixed parade of stops, you and your group can explain what you want to do, then let the crew adjust the outing to the conditions and your energy level.

That matters in Bermuda. Wind can change the feel of the Great Sound quickly. On a breezy day, the crew may put up the sail for a lively ride, then move into a protected bay for swimming. On another day, the wind direction may prevent sailing, but you can still reach a shallow beach area or a calm cove for water time.

You get about three hours on the boat. That is long enough for a few activities without making the outing an all-day commitment. I would think of it as a flexible water session rather than a formal sightseeing cruise with a long list of scheduled stops.

The catamaran is rated for up to 15 people, making it especially useful for a family reunion, wedding group, cruise-party outing, or several couples traveling together. Smaller groups can book it too, but the price makes the most sense when divided among several people.

What you can do during the three hours

The day can combine several activities, but you should be realistic about the clock. Sailing, swimming, snorkeling, cliff jumping, SUP, and kayaking all take time. You may need to choose your priorities rather than attempt everything at length.

A typical outing might begin with a sail around the bays and coves of western Bermuda. If conditions cooperate, this is the peaceful part of the trip. Let the breeze carry the boat while you enjoy the water and coastline from a wider view than you get from land.

The crew can then take you to a snorkeling spot. Equipment is provided, so you do not need to pack your own mask, snorkel, or fins. Several groups have used calm coves where children and first-time snorkelers could feel more comfortable. The water conditions and marine life can vary, so treat snorkeling as a chance to explore rather than a guaranteed wildlife show.

Cliff jumping is another popular option. Admiralty Park and Spanish Point have been used for this part of the outing, and Elephant Rock has also featured in the route. This activity is optional, and you should skip it if heights, rough water, or the landing area make you uneasy. The crew can keep non-jumpers on the boat or in the water at a more comfortable spot.

For a gentler choice, use the stand-up paddleboards or the crystal kayak. The kayak adds a different view of the water, while the SUP gives you a small workout and a way to move around a quiet cove. These activities require balance and some physical effort, but you do not have to take part in every option.

You can also swim from the boat, relax on the forward hammock, listen to music, or simply enjoy the ride. That range is valuable when your group includes energetic teenagers, small children, older adults, and people who would rather sit in the sun than jump from a rock.

The crew and the flexible route

The crew is a major part of the experience. Captain Mark is mentioned often, along with Alex, Georgia, and Captain Matt on different outings. The crew can suggest a plan, listen to your requests, and change course when the weather or water conditions call for it.

That does not mean you get a private guide narrating every mile. This is more relaxed than that. You are hiring a boat and crew for a shared experience, so the quality of your day depends partly on how clearly you explain what your group wants.

Tell the crew early if cliff jumping is the main goal. Do the same if your priority is a quiet swim, snorkeling with children, or sailing at sunset. One family with young children and a blind adult appreciated the crew’s patient approach and attention to safety. That is encouraging, but you should still discuss mobility needs and activity limits before departure.

The crew has also adjusted for rougher conditions by finding a sheltered bay. This is one of the most practical advantages of a private charter. A fixed group cruise may have less room to alter its plan, while this outing can respond to wind and comfort levels.

Boat comfort and what is onboard

The catamaran has a restroom, which is a real convenience during a three-hour outing. You also get snorkeling equipment, a SUP, and a crystal kayak. The boat includes a Bluetooth audio system, so you can bring a playlist or ask the crew for music options.

There is a large cooler and a gas grill, but these do not mean a meal comes with the booking. Food, ice, and special drinks must be arranged ahead of time and billed separately. A cash bar offers assorted drinks for purchase.

This is the place to clarify details before you board. One disappointing experience involved an assumption that beer, wine, and soda were included. They were later charged separately. The practical lesson is simple: ask exactly what your package includes, what you may bring, and what will be added to the bill.

Bring towels and sunscreen. Spray sunscreen and tanning lotion are not allowed, likely because of the boat’s surfaces and safety concerns. You must remove your shoes before boarding, with no exceptions. Red wine is also prohibited onboard.

The boat has space to spread out, but it is still a working vessel. Keep your belongings tidy, listen to crew instructions around the water, and expect wet feet and spray if the wind picks up.

How much value do you get for $1,175?

The price is $1,175 for the entire group, up to 15 people. At 15 people, that is about $78 per person. For 10 people, it is $117.50 each. With only four people, the cost becomes $293.75 per person, so the value changes sharply with group size.

That price includes private use of the catamaran, crew, snorkeling gear, SUP, crystal kayak, restroom, and Bluetooth audio. It does not include meals, drinks, ice, transport to the meeting point, towels, or sunscreen.

For a full group that wants several hours on the water, the private format can be a good buy. You are paying not only for the boat but also for the ability to choose the pace and activities. A large family can split up between swimming, jumping, paddling, and relaxing without trying to satisfy a boatload of strangers.

For a small group, compare the price with shared boat outings in Bermuda. A private charter still gives you privacy and flexibility, but you may pay a premium for that freedom. I would book this when the private setting matters, especially for a celebration or a group with mixed ages and interests.

Sunset, cruise days, and meeting plans

Start times are flexible, and a sunset cruise costs no extra. That is useful if you spend the morning sightseeing or arrive in Bermuda on a cruise ship and want an afternoon on the water.

Several groups have used the catamaran as a cruise-day excursion, including an outing where the boat met the passengers near their ship. Do not assume that every pickup works the same way. Transport to the meeting point is not included, so confirm the exact location and allow enough time to return to your ship.

The crew can work with cruise schedules, but you remain responsible for knowing your ship’s all-aboard time. Build in a cushion rather than cutting a private boat outing close to departure. Local weather or a delayed start can affect the timing.

Public and private transportation to the meeting point is not provided by Island Time Bermuda. The experience is near public transportation, but you should arrange your own route and check the pickup details before the day.

Who will enjoy this most

This outing suits a group that wants both action and downtime. Teenagers can look forward to cliff jumping and SUP, while adults can sit on the hammock, swim, sail, or enjoy a drink. Families with younger children can choose calmer water activities, though every person should be watched closely around the boat and water.

It also works well for first-time snorkelers. You can use the provided equipment and ask the crew to stop in a calmer cove. Snorkeling is optional, so anyone who feels unsure can stay aboard or swim near the boat.

The experience is less suited to someone who wants a tightly scripted tour with guaranteed sailing, a full meal, and all drinks included. Wind may prevent the sail, and the three-hour window means you may not spend a long time at every stop. Guests must also be able to manage the basic physical demands of boarding, swimming, or using the water equipment, although the more strenuous activities are optional.

Service animals are allowed, and most people can participate. If anyone in your party has specific mobility or medical needs, contact the operator in advance rather than relying on general participation guidance.

Weather, safety, and small rules that matter

The trip requires good weather. If poor conditions force a cancellation, you can receive a full refund or move to another date. You can also cancel for a full refund up to 24 hours before the start time. Changes or cancellations inside that 24-hour window are not accepted for a refund.

Wind does not always ruin the day. The crew has taken groups sailing in breezy conditions, then found shelter for a swim. Still, the exact balance of sailing and swimming depends on nature, not just your preference.

Cliff jumping and water sports carry more risk than lounging on deck. Treat them as optional, listen to the crew, and do not feel pressured to join in. Families should set clear expectations for children before boarding.

Bring a towel, sunscreen that is not spray or tanning lotion, and a playlist if music matters to you. Leave red wine and shoes behind. Those small preparations will prevent most avoidable annoyances.

Should you book the Island Time Bermuda catamaran?

I would book this for a group of eight to 15 people that wants a private, easygoing day with several ways to use the water. The strongest reasons are the flexible route, the ability to find calmer water, and the mix of cliff jumping, snorkeling, SUP, kayaking, swimming, and sailing.

I would be more cautious if your group is small, budget-focused, or expecting food and drinks to be included. Ask for a clear breakdown of beverage charges and catering before you pay, and remember that transport is your responsibility.

For the right group, this is a practical way to see Bermuda from the Great Sound without surrendering your day to a rigid schedule. Bring the people you like, decide how active you want to be, and let the crew shape the route around the weather.

FAQ

How long is the private catamaran experience?

The outing lasts approximately three hours.

How many people can join the private catamaran?

The catamaran can accommodate a private group of up to 15 people.

Are snorkeling equipment and paddleboards provided?

Yes. Snorkeling equipment and stand-up paddleboards are included. A crystal kayak is also available.

Is food or drink included in the price?

No. Food and drinks are not included. Special food, snacks, and beverage preferences can be requested in advance for an additional charge. A cash bar offers assorted drinks for purchase.

Can I book a sunset cruise?

Yes. Start times are flexible, and a sunset cruise does not cost extra.

Do I need to bring towels and sunscreen?

Yes. Bring your own towels and sunscreen. Spray sunscreen and tanning lotion are not allowed.

What happens if bad weather cancels the trip?

If poor weather causes cancellation, you can choose another date or receive a full refund.