Empire Boat Charters
Virgin Islands
Freqently Asked Questions
We tried to answer a few of our most frequently asked questions. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to us directly, if we haven’t answered your question below.
Where do we meet the boat?
For our St Thomas guests, we will meet you at the Oasis Cove Marina. Parking is available at the marina.
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For our St John guests, we will pick you up at the VI National Park Dock Finger Pier located next to the VI National Park Visitor Center in Cruz Bay.
Please arrive early as parking is limited close to the pickup location.
How much are the BVI customs and immigration fees?
Customs charges are $80 per person CASH ONLY. This fee goes directly to the BVI Government, so we cannot except credit/debit cards, PayPal, and Venmo for this payment. Sundays and BVI Holidays there will be a $20 cash BVI Immigration overtime charge. (one time fee)
What forms of payments are accepted?
We accept Cash, PayPal, Venmo, Major Credit and Debit Cards for charter cost, fuel charge, merchandise, and crew gratuity.
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Customs charges for BVI charters is CASH ONLY.
What is included in our charter?
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Cooler full of ice
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Ice-cold water
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Captain
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Adult snorkeling equipment
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Swim noodles
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Bluetooth stereo
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Fresh water rinse
What should we bring?
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Any special alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks of your choice.
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Snacks
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Swim suits and towels
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Reef safe sunscreen. No spray sunscreens will be allowed to be used onboard.
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Passports for all guests if traveling to the British Virgin Islands
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Cash
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Credit card (All the islands in the USVI and BVI typically accept Visa & MasterCard)​
What is not allowed to bring?
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Do not bring any illegal drugs onboard. Your charter will be terminated without refund by the Captain. Empire March falls under USCG/Federal jurisdiction and yes marijuana is illegal!
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Glass containers that are meant to be drank out of. No beer bottles, etc.
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Not reef safe sunscreen and spray type sunscreen.
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Pets
What can I expect for pay for fuel?
Empire March is equipped with fuel efficient engines in order to keep your costs low. Costs can very on how far you travel during your day. Average cost for a trip ranges between $125-$350. Trips that include the Baths are around $300-$400. We do not stop at the crowded fuel dock at the end of the day, allowing you extra time on the water. Fuel charges are calculated on Empire March's Yamaha electronic fuel usage gauge.
Do you go out if the weather is bad?
We get rain showers almost every day, but they usually pass through quickly. Your captain will usually not cancel due to rain. Your captain may cancel your trip if there is dangerous sea conditions or strong winds. You will be given a full refund if your captain feels that conditions are unsafe. We will do our best to reschedule as soon as the weather is better and it is safe to go out.
We are coming on a cruise ship. Do you pick up near the cruise ship?
Due to fuel cost, dock charges and time it is cost prohibited for us to do so. We have a reliable taxi service that we recommend calling and set up transportation to Oasis Cove Marina where our vessel is located. We are flexible on our start times and finish times when you book a full day charter.
We are staying at a resort. Can you pick us up there?
No, the start and finish of your trip will be done dockside at one of our two meeting locations. This is for all participants, crew and vessel safety. We will make no exceptions to this rule.
What is your cancellation policy?
If you cancel your trip 72 hours or more prior to trip start time, you will receive a full refund.
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Do you offer fishing charters?
No, we unfortunately do not. We know fishing is serious business and if you are not catching fish you are not having fun. Our outstanding and professional Captains are not out fishing everyday, something that needs to be done to ensure success. Our Captains are doing what we do best, showing our guests the best snorkeling, bar, beach and island hopping boat day of their vacation.