What expenses should I expect during a BVI bareboat charter?
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.
Related FAQs
What are the best air connections to the British Virgin Islands from USA and Europe?
Here are some of the best air connections to the British Virgin Islands (BVI) from the USA and Europe (effective June 2025):
Where is the British Virgin Islands' sailing charter base?
The main sailing charter base in the British Virgin Islands is located at Wickhams Cay II Marina in Road Town, Tortola. This is the central hub for most charter departures and home to several major operators.
Where can we get away from it all on our BVI charter?
For those who love to explore by sail, the British Virgin Islands offer so much. Beyond the popular moorings you will call at for provisioning and the nightlife, lie peaceful anchorages, untouched beaches and wildlife-rich bays that reward you for going a little further.
Should I start my Virgin Islands charter from St Thomas, Tortola or Puerto Rico?
The best departure point depends on where you want to sail. St Thomas is ideal for exploring the US Virgin Islands, Tortola is generally more convenient for the British Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico offers access to the Spanish Virgin Islands. Flight connections, yacht availability and cruising permissions should also influence your choice.
When is the best time to charter in the Virgin Islands?
December to April is the principal yacht charter season in the Virgin Islands, with warm weather and generally reliable trade winds. May and June can also be attractive, with fewer visitors. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November, making late summer and autumn less suitable for charter holidays.
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.