In most cases, you don’t need a formal sailing license or qualification to charter a bareboat in the US Virgin Islands. However you must be able to demonstrate adequate sailing experience, particularly as skipper, on a detailed sailing resume. Charter operators need to ensure you are capable of safely handling the boat and navigating local waters.

Your sailing resume should include:

• Boats you've sailed (type, size, monohull or catamaran)
• Your role on board (e.g., skipper or crew)
• Sailing regions and conditions experienced
• Total days or weeks spent sailing
• Any informal or formal training you’ve completed

If your experience doesn’t meet the charter company’s minimum standards, they may require you to take a local checkout skipper for a day or two, or suggest a skippered charter instead.

Unlike the Mediterranean, where an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or similar is mandatory, the USVI is more flexible. Still, it’s best to consult a broker early in the process to confirm your eligibility and avoid surprises. At Sail Connections, we discuss experience from the start and review all resumes before confirming your booking. We’ll advise if any extra support is recommended to ensure a smooth and enjoyable charter.

Related FAQs

What are the sailing conditions like in the Virgin Islands ?

The Virgin Islands offer some of the most accessible and enjoyable sailing in the Caribbean, ideal for both first-timers and seasoned sailors. Prevailing trade winds blow consistently from the east at 10–20 knots, short distances between islands mean less time sailing and more time relaxing, the waters are well charted with plenty of sheltered anchorages, minimal tidal range and good marine infrastructure.

What types of boats are available for USVI charter and do they include crewed boats?

In the USVI there is a wide selection of charter boats available, tailored to suit your group size, sailing experience, and holiday preferences. Crewed yacht charters are popular in this destination, offering a stress-free way to enjoy sailing without needing any boating experience. Continue Reading...

Can I sail between the US and British Virgin Islands on a USVI charter?

Yes, you can sail between the US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands (BVIs), but there are important legal and logistical considerations. Not all charter boats based in the USVI are licensed to enter BVI waters. Continue Reading...

Should I start a Virgin Islands charter from Tortola (BVI), St. Thomas (USVI) or San Juan (Puerto Rico)?

Your choice of charter base in the Virgin Islands, whether Tortola in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands (USVI), or San Juan in Puerto Rico, depends on convenience, sailing plans and travel logistics. Continue Reading...

When is the best time to charter in the Virgin Islands?

The best time to charter in the Virgin Islands depends on your priorities: weather, budget, crowds and sailing conditions. With warm temperatures year-round and steady trade winds, there’s truly no bad time to go. But a few seasonal patterns can help you decide what works best for your group. Continue Reading...