Dreaming of turquoise waters, sun-drenched beaches, and the freedom to explore at your own pace? Chartering a yacht in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is the perfect way to turn that dream into a reality. Forget crowded resorts and fixed itineraries – with a chartered yacht, the BVI is your oyster. This guide is your comprehensive resource for planning an unforgettable sailing adventure.
Why Charter a Yacht in the BVI?
The British Virgin Islands are renowned as one of the world’s premier sailing destinations, and for good reason. The islands offer protected waters, consistent trade winds, stunning natural beauty, and a plethora of anchorages to explore. Unlike other Caribbean destinations, the BVI boasts relatively short sailing distances between islands, making it ideal for both experienced sailors and those new to yachting. This also means more time for swimming, snorkeling, sunbathing, and exploring ashore!
The BVI’s unique geography provides calmer waters than many open-ocean sailing grounds. The Sir Francis Drake Channel, the main waterway through the islands, is largely sheltered, reducing the risk of large waves and strong currents. This makes for a more relaxing and enjoyable experience, especially for those traveling with children or less experienced crew members. The consistent trade winds, typically blowing from the east, provide steady propulsion, making sailing predictable and manageable.
Choosing Your Charter Type
There are a few different ways to charter a yacht in the BVI, each catering to different levels of experience and budget:
Bareboat Charter: This is where you rent the yacht and skipper it yourself. You’ll need to provide proof of sailing experience and qualifications (like an ICC or ASA certification). This option offers the most freedom and autonomy, but demands responsibility for navigation, boat handling, and safety.
Skippered Charter: If you don’t have the required qualifications or prefer to relax and let someone else handle the sailing, a skippered charter is the way to go. A professional captain will manage the yacht, allowing you to simply enjoy the scenery and activities. You can still participate in the sailing if you wish, but the responsibility rests with the skipper.
Crewed Charter: This is the most luxurious option, with a full crew including a captain, chef, and sometimes even a stewardess. Crewed charters offer all-inclusive packages with gourmet meals, personalized service, and a truly pampered experience. This is ideal for those seeking ultimate relaxation and minimal involvement in the day-to-day running of the yacht.
Example: John and Mary are experienced sailors with an ICC certification. They opt for a bareboat charter, selecting a 42-foot catamaran, to explore the BVI with their two teenagers. Meanwhile, the Smiths, who have dreamt of sailing the BVI but have limited experience, choose a skippered charter, selecting a 45-foot monohull, so they can relax and learn from a professional captain.
Selecting the Right Yacht
The type of yacht you choose will largely depend on your budget, group size, and sailing preferences. Here are some popular options:
Monohulls: These are classic sailboats, offering a traditional sailing experience. They tend to be more affordable than catamarans of similar size. The motion can be more pronounced in choppy seas, but they are known for their sailing performance, especially upwind.
Catamarans: These twin-hulled yachts offer greater stability, spacious living areas, and shallow draft, making them ideal for exploring shallow bays and anchorages. They are generally more expensive to charter than monohulls. Catamarans are like floating apartments! They offer far more privacy, storage space, and entertaining areas for larger groups or families.
Consider the following when selecting your yacht:
Size: Ensure the yacht has enough berths (beds) and heads (bathrooms) for your group. Overcrowding can quickly lead to discomfort.
Layout: Think about the layout of the cabins and living areas. Do you prefer a galley (kitchen) up or down? Are the beds doubles or singles?
Amenities: Check what amenities are included, such as air conditioning, generator, water maker, dinghy with outboard motor, snorkeling gear, and entertainment systems.
Age and Condition: Newer yachts generally have more modern amenities and are less prone to mechanical issues. But well-maintained older yachts can also offer a great value.
Tip: Many charter companies offer detailed yacht specifications and photos on their websites. Take the time to browse through different options and compare features.
Planning Your BVI Itinerary
The BVI offer a diverse range of islands and anchorages, each with its own unique charm. Here’s a suggested itinerary for a 7-day charter, but feel free to customize it based on your interests:
Day 1: Tortola (Base to Norman Island): Begin your journey in Tortola, the largest of the BVI. Provision your yacht, complete the charter briefing, and set sail for Norman Island, rumored to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. Snorkel in The Caves and enjoy dinner at The William Thornton floating bar and restaurant.
Day 2: Norman Island to Cooper Island: A short sail to Cooper Island. Snorkel the reefs and relax on the beach. Enjoy dinner and drinks ashore at the Cooper Island Beach Club, known for its rum bar.
Day 3: Cooper Island to Virgin Gorda (The Baths): Sail to Virgin Gorda and explore The Baths, a geological wonder of granite boulders and hidden grottoes. Arrive early to avoid the crowds. Anchor in Spanish Town and enjoy dinner ashore.
Day 4: Virgin Gorda (The Baths) to Anegada: This is the longest sail of the itinerary, taking you to Anegada, the only coral island in the BVI. Enjoy the pristine beaches, snorkel the reefs, and feast on fresh lobster at one of the beachfront restaurants.
Day 5: Anegada to Jost Van Dyke (White Bay): A leisurely sail back towards the west, stopping at Jost Van Dyke. Relax on White Bay, home to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, where the Painkiller cocktail was invented.
Day 6: Jost Van Dyke (White Bay) to Sandy Cay/Cane Garden Bay: Explore the uninhabited Sandy Cay, a beautiful island with a white-sand beach and palm trees (a great spot for photos!), then head to Cane Garden Bay on Tortola for some watersports activities and beach bars.
Day 7: Cane Garden Bay to Tortola (Base): Enjoy a final morning swim before sailing back to the charter base in Tortola.
Anchorage Options:
- Norman Island: The Bight is a popular anchorage, but anchoring restrictions exist. Moorings are available for a fee. Consider Willy T (The William Thornton) for a party atmosphere.
- Cooper Island: Excellent snorkeling and diving sites around the island. Moorings are usually required.
- The Baths, Virgin Gorda: Limited mooring buoys available. Arrive early to secure one, or anchor further out and use your dinghy to reach the shore.
- Anegada: Popular anchorage is Setting Point. Be mindful of the shallow reef.
- Jost Van Dyke: White Bay is famous for its bars and beaches, and very popular. Great Harbour offers a more authentic experience than White Bay, especially if you’re looking for less of a party atmosphere.
- Sandy Cay: Day stop only – no overnight anchoring allowed.
- Cane Garden Bay: Plenty of mooring buoys and good holding in the sand for anchoring.
Provisioning Your Yacht
Provisioning refers to stocking your yacht with food, drinks, and other essentials for your trip. You have a few options:
Pre-Provisioning: Most charter companies offer pre-provisioning services, where you submit a list of items you want and they will stock the yacht for you before your arrival. This is the most convenient option, but it can be more expensive.
Shopping in Tortola: You can shop for provisions yourself at supermarkets and grocery stores in Tortola. This allows you to choose exactly what you want and save money, but it can be time-consuming, especially after a long flight.
A Combination: A popular option is to pre-provision some essentials (like water, drinks, and snacks) and then shop for fresh produce and meats in Tortola.
Tips for Provisioning:
Plan Your Meals: Create a meal plan for the week to avoid over-buying or forgetting essential ingredients.
Consider Local Specialties: Try incorporating local ingredients and dishes into your meals, such as fresh seafood, Caribbean spices, and local fruits.
Pack Light: Don’t overpack perishable items. You can always supplement your supplies along the way at smaller stores on other islands.
Water is Key: Remember to factor in ample drinking water for everyone on board.
Activities in the BVI: Beyond Sailing
While sailing is the main attraction, the BVI offers a wide range of other activities to enjoy.
Snorkeling and Diving: The BVI boasts crystal-clear waters and vibrant coral reefs, making it a paradise for snorkelers and divers. Popular spots include The Caves on Norman Island, The Indians near Norman Island, and the RMS Rhone wreck off Salt Island. Many dive operators offer trips to these locations.
Beach Hopping: Explore the numerous pristine beaches, each offering its unique charm. White Bay on Jost Van Dyke is famous for its beach bars, while Cane Garden Bay on Tortola offers more watersports activities.
Hiking: Several islands offer hiking trails with stunning views. Gorda Peak National Park on Virgin Gorda offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding islands.
Exploring The Baths: No trip to the BVI is complete without exploring The Baths on Virgin Gorda. These giant granite boulders create a unique landscape of hidden grottoes and pools. Wear sturdy shoes suitable for climbing.
Water Sports: Windsurfing, paddle boarding, kayaking, and even flyboarding are typically available at the major bays. Check at the local shops for hourly/daily rentals.
Costs Associated with Chartering
Chartering a yacht isn’t cheap, but it can be a worthwhile investment for an unforgettable vacation. Here’s a breakdown of the typical costs:
Yacht Charter Fee: This is the main cost, which varies depending on the size and type of yacht, the time of year, and the duration of the charter. Expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000+ per week, with catamarans generally costing more than monohulls. Rates are typically higher during peak season (December to April).
Provisioning: Food and drinks can cost anywhere from $50 to $150 per person per day, depending on your preferences and dining habits.
Mooring Fees: Mooring fees vary depending on the location and size of the yacht, but expect to pay around $30 to $50 per night.
National Parks Fees: There are some fees imposed on vessels entering certain locations managed as national parks.
Fuel and Water: You’ll need to factor in the cost of fuel for the yacht’s engine and dinghy, as well as water refills. This can typically range from $200 to $500 per week, depending on your usage.
Skipper/Crew Fees (if applicable): If you’re hiring a skipper or crew, you’ll need to factor in their daily rates, which can range from $200 to $500+ per day, plus tips. A normal tip amount is 15-20% of their wages for the charter.
Insurance: Ensure you have adequate travel insurance and consider taking out a security deposit insurance to cover any potential damage to the yacht.
Example: A couple charters a 40-foot monohull for a week in May. The charter fee is $4,500. They pre-provision for $500 and spend another $300 on groceries in Tortola. Mooring fees average $35/night for a total of $245. Fuel and water cost $300. Their total cost for the week is $5,845.
Booking Your Charter
Planning a BVI yacht charter requires some advance preparation. Here are some tips for booking successfully:
Book Well in Advance: Especially if you’re traveling during peak season, book your charter several months in advance to secure the yacht you want.
Research Charter Companies: Compare prices, yacht availability, and customer reviews from various charter companies. Reliable charter companies include The Moorings, Sunsail, and Horizon Yacht Charters.
Read the Fine Print: Carefully review the charter agreement before signing it, paying attention to cancellation policies, insurance requirements, and any extra fees.
Check Experience Requirements: If opting for a bareboat charter, ensure you meet the charter company’s experience requirements.
Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the charter company any questions you have about the yacht, the itinerary, or the BVI in general.
Essential Tips for Smooth Sailing
To ensure a smooth and enjoyable charter experience, keep these tips in mind:
Learn Basic Sailing Terminology: Familiarize yourself with basic sailing terms and maneuvers before you arrive.
Practice Navigation Skills: If you’re bareboating, brush up on your navigation skills, including chart reading, GPS usage, and anchoring techniques. Consider taking a refresher course prior to your charter if it’s been a while since you’ve sailed.
Pack Appropriately: Pack light, comfortable clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and reef-safe sunscreen to protect the reefs and marine life from the chemicals found in many sunscreens. Bring non-slip shoes for wearing on deck.
Be Aware of Weather Conditions: Monitor the weather forecast daily and be prepared for changing conditions.
Respect the Environment: Dispose of trash properly, avoid damaging coral reefs, and conserve water and electricity.
Secure your belongings Secure your belongings when underway. Remember, the boat will move during normal sailing, sometimes unexpectedly!
Navigating the BVI: Practical Considerations
Entering and exiting BVI Territories (Customs and Immigration): There are designated ports of entry. Clear in and out of Customs and Immigration at your first and last port. Keep the vessel documentation with you.
Moorings and Anchoring Etiquette: Pay mooring fees promptly. Avoid rafting (tying your boat to another) without permission. Be mindful of anchoring depths and swinging room.
Dinghy Rules: Observe speed limits in harbors and anchorages. Be aware of dinghy docking locations.
Water and Fuel Availability: Plan your water and fuel stops. Some islands have limited supplies.
Waste Disposal: Use proper waste disposal facilities. Do not dump trash overboard.
Communication VHF radio is very important on a boat. Before going, make sure you know how to use the main radio and distress channels.
Safety First
Safety should always be your top priority on a yacht charter. Before setting sail, ensure that:
You understand the weather forecasts. Review the weather information every day.
You know how to use the vessel’s safety equipment. Make sure that the emergency equipment (flares, life raft, first aid kit, etc.) is complete and understand how it can be activated or used.
Everyone knows how to operate the VHF radio and make a distress call. This is very important.
Know where medical facilities in the BVI and how to contact them. In the event of an emergency, time is of the essence.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What qualifications do I need for a bareboat charter?
A: Bareboat charter companies typically require proof of sailing experience, such as an ICC (International Certificate of Competence) or ASA (American Sailing Association) certification. They may also ask for a sailing resume detailing your experience.
What is included in the charter fee?
A: The charter fee typically includes the rental of the yacht, basic equipment (such as sails, rigging, and navigation equipment), and insurance coverage for the yacht itself. It usually does not include provisioning, mooring fees, fuel, water, or optional extras like a skipper or crew.
What currency is used in the BVI?
A: The official currency of the BVI is the US dollar (USD). Major credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments.
What is the best time of year to charter in the BVI?
A: The best time of year to charter in the BVI is during the dry season, from December to April. The weather is typically sunny and dry, with consistent trade winds. However, this is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowded anchorages.
Are there any restrictions on where I can sail?
A: Some areas may be restricted due to shallow waters, protected reefs, or military activities. The charter company will provide you with a chart briefing and highlight any restricted areas.
What happens if the yacht breaks down?
A: Reputable charter companies provide 24/7 support and will arrange for repairs if the yacht breaks down. They may also offer a replacement yacht if the repairs take too long.
How much should I tip the skipper and crew?
A: A typical tip for a skipper or crew is 15-20% of their daily rate, depending on the level of service.
Can I bring my pet on a charter?
A: Some charter companies allow pets on board, but you’ll need to inquire in advance and may be subject to additional fees and restrictions.
What if I have never sailed before?
A: Opt for a skippered or crewed charter. Let the professional sailors guide you while you relax and soak in the views.
References
- American Sailing Association (ASA)
- International Certificate of Competence (ICC)
- The Moorings
- Sunsail
- Horizon Yacht Charters
Ready to cast off and explore the British Virgin Islands at your own pace? Don’t just dream about the BVI; start planning your unforgettable yacht charter adventure today! Contact a reputable charter company, choose your dream yacht, and prepare to be amazed by the beauty and freedom that awaits. The turquoise waters are calling – will you answer?
