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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Planning 7 min read

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Top Questions to Ask Before Chartering a Bareboat

Top questions to ask yourself before chartering a bareboat in the BVI. Are you experienced enough? Do you have the right crew? Have you planned your provisioning? These are the critical questions that will determine whether your charter is a dream or a disaster.

Top questions to ask yourself before chartering a bareboat in the BVI. These are the critical questions that will determine whether your charter is a dream or a disaster.

1. Am I Experienced Enough?

Bareboat chartering in the BVI requires real sailing experience. You should be comfortable: - Handling the boat in 20+ knot winds - Anchoring and picking up mooring balls - Navigating using charts and GPS - Docking in a marina - Handling emergencies

Most charter companies will require you to complete a sailing resume and may require a check-out sail with a company skipper.

2. Do I Have the Right Crew?

Your crew can make or break your charter. Consider: - Do they have sailing experience? - Are they physically capable of handling the boat? - Will they work well together in close quarters? - Do they have compatible expectations for the trip?

3. Have I Planned for the Costs?

As detailed in our charter costs article, the base charter fee is just the beginning. Have you budgeted for provisioning, fuel, mooring fees, and unexpected expenses?

4. Do I Have the Right Insurance?

Make sure you have adequate sailing insurance. Most charter companies require either their damage waiver or proof of your own insurance.

5. Have I Done My Research?

Do you know the waters you'll be sailing in?
Do you have up-to-date charts?
Do you know the local regulations?
Do you have a cruising guide?

6. What's My Plan B?

What will you do if the weather is bad? If someone gets sick? If the boat has a mechanical problem? Having a plan B for common scenarios will reduce stress and improve decision-making.