What is the best yacht charter company in the BVI?

The best BVI charter company depends on your needs. BVI Yacht Charters, The Moorings, Sunsail, and Conch Charters are among the most highly rated. Read our independent reviews to compare all 14 companies.

How much does a BVI yacht charter cost?

BVI charter costs vary widely. A bareboat catamaran for a week typically costs $5,000–$15,000 plus provisioning, fuel, and mooring fees. Budget $2,000–$3,500 per person all-in for a week-long charter.

Do I need sailing experience to charter in the BVI?

For a bareboat charter you need proven sailing experience. If you're new to sailing, you can hire a skipper from any of the 14 charter companies we review. The BVI is considered one of the best destinations for beginner and intermediate sailors.

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Safety 7 min read

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Safety Considerations for BVI Charters

Safety considerations for your BVI charter. Before you set sail, it's essential to understand the safety protocols and equipment on your vessel. From life jackets to flares, from VHF radios to first aid kits — knowing where everything is could save a life.

Safety considerations for your BVI charter. Before you set sail, it's essential to understand the safety protocols and equipment on your vessel.

Essential Safety Equipment

Every charter boat should have: - Life jackets for every person on board (plus extras) - Harnesses and tethers for offshore sailing - EPIRB (Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon) - VHF radio - Flares (check expiry dates) - First aid kit - Fire extinguishers - Life raft - Bilge pump

Before You Leave the Dock

Complete the charter company's safety briefing
Know where all safety equipment is located
Ensure everyone knows how to use the VHF radio
File a float plan with someone ashore
Check the weather forecast

VHF Radio

The VHF radio is your lifeline. Channel 16 is the international distress and calling channel — monitor it at all times. Know how to make a MAYDAY call: 1. "MAYDAY MAYDAY MAYDAY" 2. Your vessel name 3. Your position 4. Nature of distress 5. Number of people on board 6. Any other relevant information

Man Overboard

Know the man overboard procedure before you need it. The basic steps are: 1. Shout "Man overboard!" and point continuously at the person 2. Press the MOB button on the GPS 3. Throw a life ring 4. Keep the person in sight at all times 5. Execute a recovery maneuver