All prices in US dollars

While your bareboat charter includes the yacht itself, there are several additional costs to factor into your holiday budget. These vary depending on your itinerary, provisioning style and personal preferences. For charting in the BVis, here's a guide to help you plan with confidence.

1. Mooring Fees

Mooring buoys are commonly used in the BVI and cost around $30 per night. They're usually paid in cash, either to a local collector by dinghy or at a nearby restaurant. Anchoring is free in many areas, but moorings are convenient, safe, and widely available near popular stops.

2. Fuel Costs

Fuel consumption depends on your boat type and how much motoring you do. On average:

• Monohull yachts: $70–$120 per week
• Catamarans: $150–$250 per week

Fuel is usually paid for on replacing what's been used at the end of your charter. Most boats are delivered with full tanks and expected to be returned the same way, unless a pre-paid fuel option is arranged.

3. Water & Ice

While many marinas provide water refills, you may need to top up tanks mid-charter depending on your usage:

• Water: approx. $0.15 per gallon (refill ports available at marinas)
• Ice: $4–$10 per bag depending on size and location

4. Provisions (Food & Drinks)

Provisioning can be done in advance through local services or in person at supermarkets near the base. Expect:

• Self-catering: $25–$45 per person per day (depending on tastes)
• Dining ashore: Main dishes/entrees at local restaurants typically range from $15–$35; higher at luxury beach clubs

Provisioning ahead of time can save money and ensure a smoother first day aboard. Many charterers combine onboard meals with a few dinners ashore.

5. National Park Permits & Taxes

To access marine parks in the BVI, a permit is required and is often included in your charter paperwork. Additional government taxes include:

• BVI Environmental Levy: $10 per person (non-residents)
• Departure Tax: $20 per person (from ferry terminals), $15 (from airports)

6. Optional Extras

• Dinghy outboard & fuel: Often included, but double-check your quote
• Wi‑Fi or mobile hotspots: $20–$60 per week depending on package
• Water toys: Paddleboards, kayaks, and snorkel gear may be included or hired separately (approx. $15–$30 per item per day)
• End cleaning fee: Sometimes included, otherwise $150–$250 depending on vessel size

7. Insurance & Security Deposit

Most bareboat charters require a refundable security deposit (usually held on a credit card) or a non-refundable damage waiver:

• Security deposit: $2,000–$5,000 depending on boat size
• Damage waiver: $35–$60 per day as an alternative to the full deposit

8. Travel to Base & Transfers

Ferries from St. Thomas to Tortola cost around $60–$75 round-trip per person. Taxis from the ferry terminal to the charter base vary by distance, generally $10–$30 per ride.

At Sail Connections, we’ll help you avoid surprises, match you with the right boat, and guide you through budgeting for your ideal Virgin Islands sailing holiday.

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