When planning a bareboat charter vacation in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), there are some additional gear items that guests may want to consider bringing to enhance their experience and make the most of their time on the water. Here’s a list of some items that you might want to consider:
- Personal floatation devices (PFDs) – While the charter company may provide life jackets, you may want to bring your own PFDs for added comfort and safety.
- Sun protection – Bring plenty of sunscreens, hats, sunglasses, and long-sleeved shirts to protect yourself from the sun.
- Water shoes – It’s a good idea to bring shoes that can get wet and protect your feet from sharp rocks and coral.
- Snorkeling gear – While the charter company may provide snorkeling gear, you may want to bring your own if you have a preference.
- Fishing gear – If you plan on fishing, bring your own fishing gear or check with the charter company if they provide it or have it available for rent.
- Water bottles – Bring reusable water bottles to stay hydrated throughout the day.
- Waterproof bags/dry bags– Keep your belongings dry, especially electronic devices and documents.
- Flashlight/headlamp – Bring a flashlight or headlamp for night navigation and to light your way in the dark. Don’t overlook the benefits of having a red light as well.
- Music Player – Some boats have sound systems, but you may want to bring your own music player and speakers. Also, cheap MP3 player dedicated to an offshore saltwater environment (versus your phone) isn’t a bad idea.
- First-aid kit– It’s always a good idea to bring a basic first-aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medications you may need.
Keep in mind that every charter company has different policies on what they provide, so it’s important to check with the charter company and ask what they provide and what you should bring.
In addition to the items already mentioned, here are some other less common items that you may want to consider bringing on a bareboat charter vacation in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and why they may be good ideas:
- Waterproof phone case: A waterproof phone case can protect your phone from water damage and allow you to take pictures and videos while snorkeling or swimming.
- Portable charger: A portable charger will ensure that your electronic devices stay charged throughout the day.
- Waterproof portable speakers: A waterproof portable speaker will let you enjoy music while on the water, whether on the boat or swimming.
- Personal locator beacon (PLB): A PLB can help you signal for help in case of emergency.
- Multitool: A multitool can come in handy for a variety of tasks, from opening cans to fixing gear. Keep in mind this will require a checked bag to bring your own.
- Solar shower: A solar shower can be a convenient way to rinse off after swimming or snorkeling, especially if the charter company doesn’t provide hot water on the boat.
- Hammock: A portable hammock can be a great way to relax and enjoy the scenery while anchored in a secluded bay.
- Kayak or Paddleboard: If the charter company does not have those available, you may want to bring your own. Or, if they do have them available, their daily rental fee, plus the fact it is highly used may make it a cheaper and more desirable way to bring your own, especially if you already own one. However, it typically equals its own checked bag, so you have that inconvenience and cost as well.
- Line: On a vessell, they are called lines if you don’t know the name (like Main Sheet). Rope on a boat is material to craft lines. Lines are then used mainly to trim and lift sails. These special lines are known as sheets and halyards. Paracord and other lines always seem to be in need of a boat, not to mention their utility to repair and secure things. Lines can be used to tow or throw (like for a Man Over Board). It is relatively cheap, easy to pack and a little bit will go a long way. In fact, there isn’t one trip in memory that I’ve gone to the BVIs and didn’t need paracord or other lines of some kind.
Remember that every charter company has different policies on what they provide, so it’s important to check with the charter company and ask what they provide and what you should bring. Additionally, the list of items you may bring will also depend on the length of the charter, the number of people on board, and your personal preferences. For example, for a 3-day charter, I’d probably rent their kayak. For a 14-day charter, I’ll probably bring my own blow-up paddle board.
Consolidated Extra Gear List and Costs
Here is a consolidated list of items that you may want to consider bringing to enhance your experience and make the most of your time on the water, along with rough cost ranges per item:
- Personal floatation devices (PFDs) – $20 – $200
- Sun protection – $10 – $50
- Water shoes – $20 – $70
- Snorkeling gear – $50 – $200
- Fishing gear – $50 – $200
- Water bottles – $10 – $30
- Waterproof bags/dry bags – $20 – $70
- Flashlight/headlamp – $10 – $40
- Music Player – varies
- First-aid kit – $15 – $50
- Waterproof phone case – $15 – $50
- Portable charger – $20 – $50
- Waterproof portable speakers – $30 – $100
- Personal locator beacon (PLB) – $100 – $300
- Multitool – $20 – $70
- Solar shower – $20 – $50
- Hammock – $30 – $100
- Kayak or Paddleboard – $300 – $1000
- Line – $8 – $100
The cost range for all these items may vary greatly depending on the brand, quality, and size of the item, but you can expect the total cost range to be around $500 to $3000, or more, depending on what you choose to bring. Keep in mind that these are rough estimates, and the final cost will depend on the specific details of your trip, personal preferences, and what the charter company provides.
More Articles On What To Expect In The British Virgin Islands
These articles aim to help control customer expectations when chartering on the British Virgin Islands. The pretty pictures of light blue water and tan attractive people don't always tell the full story. Here are some of the other things to expect. These are written from first-hand accounts. We've tried to identify the major things that have led to people having a negative experience. These articles are not meant to dissuade you from enjoying the British Virgin Islands. On the contrary. Instead, they are intended to arm you with the right information to maximize your excellent vacation time! They are organized by title, not by priority.
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Attitude
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Chores
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Dishes
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Food
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Gratuity
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Heads
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Heat
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Hygiene
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Jellyfish
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Mini Moke!
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Safety Considerations
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The Mornings
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Top 5 Hazards In The Ocean In The British Virgin Islands
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Top Questions To Ask Yourself Before Chartering A Bareboat In the BVI
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Trash
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Water Usage
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What if our hired skipper is the Man Over Board?
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You Are On The Ocean!
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