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. The most popular options include:
- Catamarans: These provide spacious living areas, great stability at anchor, and are ideal for families or groups who value comfort. They're well-suited to the calm, protected waters around the islands.
- Monohull yachts: Traditional sailors often prefer monohulls for their handling and sailing performance. They're generally more budget-friendly and ideal for smaller crews.
- Luxury crewed yachts: For those wanting a premium experience, fully crewed yachts with onboard chefs, hostesses, and full service offer the ultimate in relaxation.
Crewed yacht charters are popular in this destination, offering a stress-free way to enjoy sailing without the need for any boating experience. A typical crew includes a professional skipper who handles sailing and navigation, and a cook or hostess who takes care of meals and onboard hospitality.
Crewed options range from:
- Skipper-only charters, where you remain the main decision-maker for the itinerary
- Skipper and cook setups, common on mid-range catamarans
- Fully crewed luxury yachts, where your crew manages every aspect of the trip and shares local insights to enhance your journey
Even experienced sailors sometimes choose a crewed charter in the Caribbean to fully relax and make the most of their time ashore. Whether you're looking for a bareboat adventure or a skippered holiday in one of its different forms, we’ll guide you to the right vessel for your experience level and preferences.
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.
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...
Do I need a sailing qualification to charter a boat in the US Virgin Islands?
In most cases, you don’t need a formal sailing license or qualification to charter a bareboat in the US Virgin Islands. 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...