The Essental Yacht Charter Guide
The Essental Yacht Charter Guide: What to Know Before You Go

Yacht Charter FAQs

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.

Distance from the Airport:
Airport: Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS), located on Beef Island, east of Tortola
Travel Time to Base: Approximately 25–30 minutes by taxi or shuttle from the airport to Wickhams Cay II
Route: A scenic coastal drive across the Queen Elizabeth Bridge linking Beef Island to Tortola, continuing into Road Town

Additional Notes:
If arriving via St. Thomas (USVI), you’ll likely take a ferry or water taxi to Road Town Ferry Terminal, which is only a few minutes from the charter base.
Sail Connections can arrange private transfers from the airport or ferry terminal to ensure a smooth arrival and timely boarding of your yacht.

Whether you’re chartering bareboat or with a skipper and crew, Road Town’s Wickhams Cay II is the primary and best-equipped starting point for sailing in the BVI.

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 expenses should I expect during a BVI bareboat charter?

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. 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...

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. Continue Reading...

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): Continue Reading...

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