Let them know about your BVI trip when you call. That should help your cause. Also tell them you only plan to hit St. John that will help as well. The north shore of St. John is pretty straight forward. Although refer to the other topic on this board about "USVI Grounding". That occured at Johnsons Reef off of St. John. It's a well marked off shore reef that you will want to be aware of.

Couple of suggestions:

1. Have your taxi stop on the way to get provisions. Drinks and food for the day. There are no beach bars on the north shore of St. John so you'll want to bring sandwiches or something. Also there is no real store in Red Hook any longer. Food Center is on the route you'll be taking so it's a good stop.

2. You can buy ice at the dock and I would recommend that over lugging it from the store/taxi.

3. There will be an ice chest on the boat so no need to worry about that.

4. If you have snorkel gear bring it. Otherwise you'll have to rent from the dive shop at American Yacht Harbor.

Have a blast.
Chip