In St. Thomas, we did DCL excursion "pirate ship" and would recommend taking the catamaran instead. The "pirate" experience was minimal, except that it was a schooner, and since the seas were rough, OMG I was so sick. On a later excursion that day another passenger was injured and was in a wheelchair for the remainder of the cruise.
COMPLETELY agree. If this is on your list I would not recommend! These guys put completing the trip over safety--or at least did when I was on this excursion.
https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUse...SVI-St_Thomas_U_S_Virgin_Islands.html#REVIEWS
I don't know what your budget is but I agree with others that private excursions are not "on your own" and can get you a more private experience.
Good luck...
WJS3