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How to Plan Your Charter

There are so many decisions to make when planning your perfect charter vacation.  It is our hope the following information will be very useful to you.  Just take it a step at a time to avoid becoming overwhelmed by the details.  We want this to be the most stress free, relaxing (yet energizing) trip you have ever had!  Of course, we are always available to assist or advise you in any way you need.  We are here for you so please don't hesitate to call or email us at anytime.

If you are looking for something specific, click on the links below to jump ahead to that section.
One Step at a Time

Bareboat, Captain ONLY, or Crewed Charter

Planning Your Charter

What's Right For You?

BAREBOAT

A bareboat charter is a rental agreement where the renter acts as the captain, taking full responsibility for the vessel's operation, navigation, and providing all food, fuel, and other consumables.

 

Bareboat chartering gives you the freedom to choose your own destinations and set the pace for your vacation.  It also gives you the opportunity to shop for yourself, or through the help of a provisioning company, and choose exactly what you prefer to have onboard for your charter. Bareboat chartering also gives you the ability to go ashore more often instead of adhering to a dining schedule onboard your yacht.  It is the most cost effective way to charter, but is not always an option for guests lacking sailing experience.

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CAPTAIN ONLY

A captain only charter is a rental agreement that provides a private yacht experience with a hired professional captain to handle all aspects of navigation and sailing, while the guests are responsible for provisioning, cooking, cleaning, and other onboard duties.

This is a great option if you aren't quite comfortable or experienced enough to qualify for a bareboat charter. We'll happily pair you with a certified Captain from our pool of reputable options.

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Even with a hired Captain onboard, your reservation is still considered a bareboat charter. This means that, just like a regular bareboat charter, you will remain responsible for provisioning the boat, which includes providing all meals for the Captain. You can choose to handle provisioning on your own or with the help of a provisioning company.

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FULLY CREWED

A fully crewed yacht charter is a premium rental arrangement where a private yacht is provided for the exclusive use of your group, along with a professional crew to operate the vessel and attend to your every need.

The crew typically includes a professional Captain and Chef. This package is nearly all-inclusive, covering:

  • All meals and drinks

  • Fees, moorings, and fuel

  • A variety of yacht toys to enjoy while on charter

The only additional cost is the crew gratuity, which is typically 15% to 20%.

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THE CREW'S ROLE

With a fully crewed agreement your experienced and dedicated crew is responsible for ensuring a seamless, luxurious, and personalized experience. Their duties include:

  • Operating and navigating the yacht

  • Cooking and serving all meals

  • Cleaning and maintaining the vessel

  • Providing hospitality services, such as setting up activities and arranging transportation to shore

In short, a fully crewed charter offers the ultimate private and exclusive vacation where you are completely taken care of.

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Still not sure which option best fits your needs? Reach out to reservations@virginislandsyachtcharters.com. We can help you plan the perfect charter that is very specific to you and your charter needs.

GENERAL

Do I Qualify or Should I Hire a Captain?

While we do not require a formal license or certification, we do ask that you complete a sailing resume for approval. Once your resume has been approved, we can confirm your booking. We are happy to place a temporary hold on a boat for you in the meantime.

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​If you prefer to have a Captain onboard with you for the entire charter, we are happy to facilitate that request. Please note the following:

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  • Captain's Rate: $300 per day.

  • Provisioning: You are required to provide for all of the Captain's meals.

  • Gratuity: It is customary to tip the Captain. Please budget for a standard gratuity of 20% of the charter rate.

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If you choose this option, then please ensure you choose a yacht with adequate space for the Captain. We do not ask our Captains to use the forepeak cabin. If there is no separate Skipper's Quarters, you will need to factor in reserving an additional cabin within the main accommodations, including a cabin with its own bathroom.

When Is the Best Time to Sail the Virgin Islands?

The Virgin Islands offer fantastic sailing year-round, so the best time for your group depends entirely on your preferences.

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High Season (December - April)

  • This is our Mid/High season, and the most popular time to charter.

  • Christmas and New Year's weeks are the busiest of the year, offering a special and highly sought-after experience.
     

Quiet/Shoulder Season (February, April, May)

  • These months are typically the quietest, allowing you to avoid crowds at popular anchorages. They are great months for chartering with increased tranquility.
     

Hurricane Season & Low Season (June 1 - November 30)

  • While this is officially the hurricane season, the chance of a hurricane affecting your vacation is low. June and July remain quite busy.

  • If you are looking for maximum seclusion—pristine beaches and empty anchorages—Early November and late July are the best times to go.
     

 

Important Considerations

  • Local Events: Be aware of local events (such as regattas, poker runs, or flotillas) that could impact crowds, even during the off-season.

  • Travel Insurance: We strongly recommend purchasing Travel Insurance to protect your vacation investment, especially when chartering during hurricane season.

  • Office Closures: When planning your charter dates, please note that we close at noon on Sundays, as well as on Christmas Day and New Year's Day. You are  welcome to plan for a "sleepaboard" during these times.

How Do I Know What Boat to Choose?

Selecting the perfect yacht is easy when you follow a few key steps:

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  1. Decide on Where You Want to Charter: Start by choosing between an itinerary that includes the BVI or doing a USVI-only charter, or even the Spanish Virgin Islands.  Remember, since the BVI Government policy changes that took effect June 1, 2025, charters that begin in the USVI can no longer cross over into the British Virgin Islands.  However, if your charter begins in the BVI you do have the option of including the USVI into your itinerary.  We also have a relocation option, so be sure to ask about that if that interests you.
     

  2. Match Boat to Experience: Once you’ve decided your location, then check that location’s fleet and determine the type and size of boat that aligns with your sailing experience.
     

  3. Determine Cabin Needs: Decide how many staterooms you require based on your group size. Important: If you plan to hire a Captain, remember to reserve one cabin for them.
     

  4. Find Your Favorites: Review the photos on our website and select a few yachts that appeal to you.
     

  5. Check Availability: Determine your travel dates, then use the "Request a Quote" button at the top of any page, and we will check availability for your preferred selections.
     

We understand that different features matter to each charter guest, so ensure you choose a yacht that is right for you and your crew.

How Do I Decide Which Location to Charter From?

Both the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) and the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are world-class charter destinations, but they offer distinct experiences. The choice between the two often comes down to your preference for sailing difficulty, atmosphere, and logistical ease.

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  • Choose the BVI if you prefer:

    • Easy, relaxed sailing with short distances between anchorages.

    • Iconic spots such as The Baths (Virgin Gorda), Soggy Dollar Bar (Jost Van Dyke), Norman Island (The Caves), Willy T floating bar.

    • The largest selection of well-established charter stops and limited need for dropping anchor.
       

  • Choose the USVI if you prefer:

    • Ease and convenience of travel (especially for US citizens).

    • No passport needed for US Citizens and no Customs or Immigrations to deal with while on charter.

    • Quiet seclusion and you enjoy more meals onboard.

    • Pristine, protected anchorages and long stretches of white sandy beaches (St. John National Park).

    • While there are plenty of mooring balls within the National Park, you may find yourself using your anchor more often in the USVI in other popular anchorages, like Magen's Bay, Lovango, or Water Island.

What is Included with the Yacht?

Every yacht is equipped with essential gear and amenities to ensure a comfortable charter:

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Standard Fleet Features

We are proud to offer premium features at no extra cost, including:

  • Full A/C and Generator or Full Solar Power

  • Electric Heads

  • Dinghy (at no additional expense)

  • Watermakers on all of our yachts—a feature you won't find in any other fleet!
     

Galley & Amenities

  • A fully equipped galley, including a microwave, blender, ice maker, and toaster

  • An outdoor BBQ grill or plancha and 100 quart ice chest.

  • Snorkel gear is available to borrow at no extra charge. (Kid sizes are not available, so recommend you bring those from home for the little ones!)
     

Linens & Check-In Kit

  • Each stateroom includes bed linens, bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths (Note: Beach towels are not provided).

  • Upon check-in, you will receive a kit bag containing binoculars, cruising guides, and a chart. These items must be returned to the office upon your return.

 

Important Reminders (Bareboat Provisioning)

  • Remember to bring: Personal items like phone chargers, aux cables, and any other electronics you may need.

  • Bareboat/Caption Only Responsibility: If you booked a bareboat or caption only charter, then remember there is no pre-provisioning. Please plan all your meals and supplies accordingly. See more details in the "Provisioning For A Bareboat Charter" section.

How Far in Advance Should I Book?

We recommend booking your charter as far in advance as possible, especially if your dates are not flexible or you have a specific yacht in mind.
 

  • High Season: December through April is our busiest time and generally books up well in advance. We recommend booking at least 9 months in advance.

  • Christmas and New Year's: Often require booking a full year ahead.

  • Low Season & Savings: Since all of our yachts include full A/C and a generator, consider chartering in the low or off-season for better availability and potential savings due to lower rates. We recommend at least 6 months in advance for low/off season bookings.

What Does the Booking Process Look Like?

Once you have decided on your dates and we have confirmed yacht availability, the process is simple:
 

  1. We will email you the Charter Agreement and the Terms & Conditions as well as an initial deposit invoice. 

  2. Please review and sign the documents and submit payment to confirm your booking.

Can I Place a Hold on the Yacht While I Check Airfare?

Absolutely!  We can keep the boat on hold for up to a week.  After that time, if we do not hear from you, we will automatically release the hold.

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Most major airlines serve the Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas with fewer connections and/or direct flights. If you are flying into Tortola and the Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (Beef Island), check for direct flights on American Airlines from Miami.  You can also opt to fly into San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU) and take a smaller, regional carrier into BVI.​

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Can I Sleep Aboard the Night Before My Charter?

For $75 per person, a minimum of $150, you can board your yacht the night before your charter starts. Please coordinate with VIYC if this is something you are interested in adding to your charter.  We highly recommend taking advantage of this option.

What is the Payment Schedule?

In order to secure the booking we will need a deposit of 50% of the charter fee.  The deposit is due once you receive your charter documents from us. Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to the start of your charter.  

What Should I Expect Once I've Booked?

Now that you have officially booked your charter you will naturally start to think about planning out your itinerary, you will have questions about the process, local things of interest,  and you will want to begin making decisions concerning provisioning, what to bring and not bring, etc.  We will cover all of that and help guide you through step by step in order to make it simple and as stress-free as possible.

What If I Need to Cancel?

We do understand things can happen at the last minute that may require you to cancel your charter, which is why we recommend purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment.  There are many reputable insurance carriers who offer "Cancel for Any Reason" coverage.

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CANCELLATION POLICY

  • If a charter is cancelled more than 120 prior to embarkation (including sleepaboard day), a full refund will be issued, less $600.

  • If the charter is cancelled between 120 to 60 days prior to embarkation (including sleepaboard day), 30% of the total charter fee will be forfeited.

  • If the charter is cancelled 60 days or less prior to embarkation (including sleep aboard), total funds paid to date will be forfeited.

 

WEATHER RELATED CANCELLATION

It is extremely rare that your charter will be affected by any weather-related issues, however, we highly recommend protecting your investment by purchasing Travel Insurance if you plan to charter during storm season.  VIYC is not responsible for any costs incurred in procuring other accommodations, rescheduled flight fees, or loss of charter or charter days.

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There are lots of options for travel insurance protections.  Click below for a few we recommend.

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Ready to Book

READY TO BOOK?

Customs Information

DO I NEED A PASPORT OR VISA?

For USVI Charters:

United States citizens do not need a passport to travel in and out of the US Virgin Islands.  For all other countries, please research travel requirements for your country.

For BVI Charters:

All persons, including US Citizens, require a passport when entering the British Virgin Islands.  Your passport must be valid for another 6 months upon entering the territory.  Visitors from some countries may also require a VISA for entry.  If in doubt check with BVI Tourism Board. 

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Don't have a passport or passport expired?   Whether you're renewing a passport or applying for the first time, you can use this Passport Tool to fill out the form and print. Then simply follow the instructions for submitting. It's that easy!

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What is the Currency in the BVI?

The currency is US dollars.  You will find most of the bars and restaurants will accept credit cards and traveler's checks.  Due to the high bank charges in the BVI most establishments will charge a 3% to 5% fee on all card transactions.  Always have some cash with you to pay for extras like trash haul-off, ice, or to use in some of the smaller bars and restaurants which may be cash only.

Is the Customs Process Difficult?

The Customs and Immigration process will vary, depending on how you arrive in the BVI Territory and we are happy to help you navigate that process. But, no matter what, the process is easy!

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Arriving By Public Ferry from St Thomas:
 

NOTICE: As of 1st January, 2025 the PAPER Immigration and Customs form will no longer be used for entry

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NEW ONLINE IMMIGRATION and CUSTOMS FORM
You may complete this form starting 36 hours prior to arrival into the British Virgin Islands.
It may also be filled out after purchasing your ferry ticket at the ferry terminal.
 

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  1. Create New or Search for Existing Immigration and Customs Form.

  2. Choose your Language.

  3. Choose Resident or Visitor (Visitor and Resident forms vary)

  4. Choose arriving by Sea (unless arriving by air).

  5. Add the Vessel Name/Ferry Company | Vessel Registration Number* | Country of Embarkation: US Virgin Islands  
    Port of Embarkation: Charlotte Amalie or Red Hook or Cruz Bay etc. 
    Select and/or fill in all remaining required fields. 
    *NOTE: Vessel Registration Number is the abbreviation of the ferry company name, i.e Smiths Ferry Services = SFS. then the time of your embarkation i.e. 4:00pm. = 400.  The complete "registration number" = EXAMPLE: SFS400

  6. Personal Information & Contact Information: Fill in all required field

  7. Travel Information: Select and/or fill in all required field
    Note: The "Upload photo of Bio" field, please take a photo with your phone of your passport photo page.

  8. Destination Information: Select and/or fill in all required field

  9. Customs Information: Select and/or fill in all required field

  10. SUBMIT - You will receive an email at the address you supplied. Immigration & Customs will also received your information and able to refer to it when you enter/clear into the BVI upon arrival.

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NOTE: The ferry companies alternate days of operation but all departure times remain as scheduled. When arriving at the ferry dock to purchase your tickets, you will be notified which ferry company is scheduled for that day and time. You can also purchase your tickets online at the respective ferry companies websites.

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Road Town Fast Ferry (RTFF) | Native Son Ferry (NS) | Smith's Ferry Service (SFS)

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Another good link for viewing Ferry Schedules:

https://virginislandsthisweek.com/st-thomas/st-thomas-land-activities/ferry-schedules/

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Arriving By Water Taxi:

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Private Water Taxi Service

~The Last Mile

The Last Mile is a 40' Custom Built Gold Coast Yachts Wave Piercing Catamaran. 

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What they provide:

  • Last Mile Water Taxi staff will meet you at St Thomas airport baggage claim 

  • Our dedicated, private taxi service will usher you to your private (or shared) water taxi in Crown Bay Marina or Red Hook location and take you immediately on your way to St John or the BVI. 

  • For those entering the BVI, the captain and crew will process your BVI paperwork while you wait and enjoy a refreshing drink 

  • Once cleared into the BVI, the captain will deliver you to your final destination- > TRUE DOOR TO DOOR SERVICE!

  • Round trip bookings are eligible for a 10% discount (depending on passenger count) and ALL children under two are free of charge.

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TORTOLA - $175 per person/per way

  • For private service (no other guests in your group), there is a six-person minimum charge during the weekdays and eight-person minimum charge during peak days (Friday-Sunday).

  • For those looking for a ride share, we will do our best to combine with other groups seeking the same route and traveling on the same flight schedule or time, and in this case you will just pay the per person rate.  In cases where there are not enough guests to meet the minimum, you will be able to cancel without penalty.

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Island Time, British Virgin Islands - Experience swift and plush travel in state-of-the-art powerboats, ensuring you arrive in style and on time; exactly what you need after a long day of travel.

 

Seamless transfer from the USVI to BVI and back.  Upon your arrival at the St Thomas airport, your pre-arranged land taxi will pick you up once you have collected your checked bags. The drive from the airport is roughly 30 minutes to American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook where your boat and captain will be waiting.

 

Land taxi transfers are arranged as a courtesy, and we ask that you pay the drivers directly in cash. The taxi rates are set by the Virgin Islands Taxicab Commission and inclusive of your luggage. 

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~Island Time

Additional Costs

Deductible Reduction Fee

The Deductible Reduction Fee is a mandatory fee of $50 per day. This allows our charter guests to have a smaller security deposit upon check-in rather than the full deductible of the boat. The security deposit due upon check-in is $2500-$3500 depending upon the yacht chartered.   

 

In very rare circumstances, the charterer becomes fully liable for loss or damage caused by negligence or damage occurring within a no-go area, losing a dinghy, etc.  

Overnight Moorings and Marinas

Most of the bays have overnight moorings and most of our guests prefer the safety and comfort of an overnight mooring instead of anchoring.  In the USVI within the National Park, the fees are $26 and can be paid online via the recreation.gov mobile app or cash at the pay station.

 

The fees are a bit higher in the BVI and most balls are reserved through Boaty Ball.   Be sure to get a receipt once you have paid for your mooring, whenever possible.  If you would like to get your land legs back or just spend a night at a local marina, you can expect to pay anywhere from $1.50 - $2.50 per foot for the night.  Some marinas will even include free water and ice. 

Fuel & Water

Your charter will begin with full fuel and water tanks.
 

  • Refueling Responsibility: At the end of the charter, you are responsible for the cost of re-fueling the vessel.

  • Fuel Dock Access: Fuel docks are conveniently located within the marina at both our BVI and USVI bases.
     

Guests will be provided with detailed "return to base" instructions during their check-in and boat briefing.

Can We Rent Watersports Equipment?

Water toys can definitely add to your experience while on charter.  We have a number of items available for rent including Stand Up Paddles, single kayaks, float mats, Sunchills.  We provide snorkel gear and swim noodles free of charge.​

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Please note:  For liability reasons, Virgin Islands Yacht Charters does not allow third-party rental equipment to be onboard our boats.  If you are looking for rental equipment that we do not have available, we'll be happy to try and source that for you with another reputable company.

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ADDITIONAL COSTS

What About Diving Equipment or Dive Rendezvous?

There are truly amazing dive opportunities right around Virgin Islands and setting up a rendezvous dive is usually the best plan.  Please contact us if diving is part of your plans and we will hook you up with great companies depending on your dive location.

Fishing License

New Info Coming Soon!

Cell Service and WiFi

Be sure to call your service provider prior to your charter and add and International Package or Passport Program to your cell service. Then, you will be able to HotSpot your cell phone. This is can sometimes be the most affordable and easiest option, especially in the USVI.  

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For our BVI based yachts, we'll be using ALGLink for Wifi options and we will update this section as soon as possible with more details.

 

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BoatyBall

BoatyBall

BoatyBall.com was created to provide boaters with a more secure way to pay, stay, and play.  Every BoatyBall mooring has been professionally installed and is in an active maintenance program so you can relax and enjoy your stay.  BoatyBall.com has mooring balls in prime locations throughout the British Virgin Islands.  BoatyBall.com has moorings that can be reserved through the app and other moorings that are in a first come first serve program.

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BoatyBall.com makes it easy for boaters to pay.  After setting up your account you can easily reserve and pay for a mooring ball in a matter of seconds.  BoatyBall mooring fees are $55 and well worth the money and ease of stress.  The ability to reserve a mooring ball allows boaters to spend more quality time on the water enjoying everything the Virgin Islands has to offer. 

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BoatyBall.com allows boaters to relax and play.  Knowing you have a reserved mooring waiting for you on arrival to your favorite bay allows boaters to spend more time enjoying all the beauty of the islands.  That means more time with the family enjoying snorkeling, diving, fishing, National Parks, or just sailing the ocean blue.  

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Click here for a printable version of the BoatyBall Reference Guide.  You should be able to find all of your boat information from our website, but please feel free to contact us if you have any questions. We will also have this Reference Guide in your boat binder that you will receive upon check-in. 

 

*Info obtained from https://boatyball.com 

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SHOPPING LIST

Know Before You Go

Shopping

Step One: Choosing Your Shopping Method

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Decide if you are going to shop for yourself or with the help of a provisioning company. We want only the best for our owners and guests and have a few recommendations for local provisioning companies.

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BVI Self Shopping Options:

  • Bobby’s Supermarket: An easy 5 minute walk from Village Cay Marina (Don't let the outwardly appearance fool you.  Bobby's is a nice grocery store, with lots of Kirkland's Brand, bulk type food items available, along with lots of regular grocery store items to choose from.

  • RiteWay Supermarket: Will provide you with a free shuttle to-and-from their store if you prefer a larger selection.
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Both Bobby's and RiteWay offer provisioning services as well.

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USVI Self Shopping Options: 

  • Food Center: A full-service grocery store, just an easy 5-minute cab ride away.

  • Moe’s: A smaller, higher-end grocery store in Red Hook, specializing in gourmet and specialty items.

  • Cost U Less:  Some charter guests opt for a trip mid-island for more bulk style shopping and it can be a savings, especially for our larger vessels with lots of guests onboard.

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Step Two: Yacht and Personal Essentials Checklist
 

When making plans and in thinking about what you will need for the week, start with the basics.  Think about all the things you use on a regular basis in your own home.  Paper towels, toilet paper, all-purpose cleaning wipes, dish soap, scrubby sponge, kitchen trash bags and smaller trash bags for the wastepaper baskets in the heads. 

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*Some additional things you will want to have:

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Ziploc baggies, plenty of them, and in a variety of sizes.  There are so many uses for these, and you’ll be surprised at how many use.  For saving leftovers, keeping your money dry, organizing your chargers and adapters, etc.

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Clothespins for hanging items on the railing to dry and keep them in place. 

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Personal toiletries including shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, and hand soap for each stateroom.

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You will definitely want bug spray onboard, especially if you are susceptible to bites. 

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Sunscreen is a must in the Caribbean sun, so buy plenty, but make certain it is the lotion type and is reef safe.  NEVER buy spray on sunscreen or Coppertone products as they will yellow the deck of the boat and make it very slippery.  Also, avoid sunscreen with self-tanner or bronzer as those will damage the boat as well. There is a ban on sunscreens containing the Toxic O's.  Learn more here.

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Fabuloso is a must have product on any boat with marine heads and is readily available everywhere in the islands.  Just pour a little bit into the head to keep it smelling clean and fresh.  It really works!

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A small box of matches is also a good idea just in case your lighter for the grill, cooktop and oven stops working.

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Step Three: Planning Meals and Drinks
 

  • Meal Planning: Look at your itinerary and determine which meals you will have ashore. Plan for onboard dinners, and remember that breakfast is often a wonderful time to reflect and plan the day.

  • Staple Foods: Plan for plenty of snacks, fruits, and simple lunch options like sandwiches or wraps. Remember to purchase salt, pepper, spices, and all necessary condiments.

  • Drinks: Stock up on beer, wine, alcohol, and your favorite mixers. Your yacht will have a cooler to keep drinks chilled. Try to avoid glass bottles whenever possible.

  • Ice: Don't forget ice! 
     

Remember: You will have many opportunities to purchase additional items and re-provision along the way, so do not overdo it. You won't want to leave the boat with tons of uneaten food.

What to Pack

PACKING FOR A BAREBOAT CHARTER

K.I.S.S. - Keep It Simple Sailor!

Can We Use a Hairdryer Onboard?

Unfortunately, you cannot use a hairdryer of any other stylers aboard any of our yachts.  Life in the islands is very casual and laid back.  Once you have wound down to "island time", you probably won't want to blow dry your hair anyway.  Let the tradewinds do it for you and embrace it!  You always have the option to go into one of the marinas and use the onshore facilities for that special occasion.

The old saying, "less is more", truly applies when packing for your yacht vacation.

Our best advice: Pack half as much as you think you'll need and bring twice as much money!

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Essential Packing Guidelines

  • Luggage: Bring only one soft-sided duffle bag per person. Space is very limited on a sailing vessel, and bulky, hard-sided luggage is not suitable.

  • Daytime Wear: You will mostly be in swimsuits, cover-ups, or T-shirts. This attire is perfectly acceptable during the day at virtually every place you will play or dine.

  • Evening Wear: One or two "going out" outfits are all you need. Simple collared shirts for men and sundresses for ladies are perfect.

  • Material: Avoid denim, as it takes too long to dry. (You may want a pair of jeans only if you are traveling from the beautiful Caribbean weather back to a colder climate.)
     

Footwear & Accessories

  • Basic Shoes: A simple pair of flip-flops will get you through the entire week.

  • Hiking: If you plan to hike the trails on St. John, pack one pair of comfortable walking shoes.

  • Marinas: If you plan to use marina showers, bring shower shoes and a small collapsible tote for carrying your toiletries.

  • Towels: Do not pack large, bulky beach towels. We recommend compact alternatives like a Turkish towel or a sandless beach towel (such as Tesalate), as both take up minimal luggage space.
     

Sun Protection & Comfort

  • Rash Guard: A long-sleeve rash guard is a great idea for extra sun coverage and protection from cooler water while snorkeling.

  • Layers: A light jacket or long-sleeve T-shirt is recommended for cooler nights.

  • Souvenirs: Remember that you will want to buy souvenirs, so leave extra room in your bag for gifts and purchases!

Getting to the Virgin Islands

Arrival and Check-In

TRAVEL & ARRIVAL

Transportation Information

St. Thomas (USVI)

  • The Cyril E. King Airport (STT) is served by most major airlines, offering numerous connections and/or direct flights.
     

Tortola (BVI)

  • The Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island is the main gateway.

  • Direct Flight Option: Check for direct flights on American Airlines from Miami.

  • Connecting Option: You can also fly into San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU) and take a smaller, regional carrier into the BVI.

Car Rental-British Virgin Islands

New Town Car Rental 284-495-4076 https://www.newtowncarrentalbvi.com/
Airport Pick-Up and Drop-Off
Ferry Pick-Up and Drop-Off

General Pick-Up and Drop-Off

Car Seats for Infant/Toddler

 

Island Time 284-346-0356  https://islandtimeltd.com/

 

Said Car Rental  284-542-5232 (Find them on Facebook)

 

Remember, we drive on the left.

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Car Rental-St Thomas, USVI

Agile Car Rental 340-626-9224 agilecarrental.com

 

Dexter Rental Car 340-643-3534  dexterrentalcar.com

 

Paradise Rental Car™   340-643-2692 www.pdiseinc.com

 

Discount Car Rental 340-776-4858 https://www.discountcar.vi/ 

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Renting a car instead of hiring a taxi can actually be quite the savings, especially if you plan to do your own provisioning.  

 

Remember, we drive on the left.

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Arriving BVI Via Water Taxi/Ferry

Whether arriving via water taxi or ferry, you will clear Customs and Immigration at either the Road Town Ferry Terminal or the West End (Soper's Hole) Ferry Dock. After which, you can take a first come first serve taxi, unless you have pre-arranged transportation such as a private taxi or rental car.

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Our marina is approximately a 7-minute walk from the Road Town Ferry Terminal, so walking is also an option!

  • YouTube
Take a Walk with Kristi Query from the Road Town Ferry to Village Cay Marina

Arriving by Air in BVI

After landing at EIS, collect luggage, and clear BVI Customs and Immigration. (Remember: A passport is required for entry into the BVI). Take a land taxi from the airport taxi stand on Beef Island. The airport is connected to Tortola by a short bridge. Instruct your taxi driver to take you to Village Cay Marina in Road Town. The marina is in the center of Road Town, near the banking center off Waterfront Drive. 

Private Taxi Recommendation for BVI Arrivals

Campbell's Taxi Service

Robert Campbell

(284) 541-2104

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IMPORTANT:  When arranging PRIVATE TAXI SERVICE in the BVI, you will need a VOUCHER to show at the airport.  If you do not have a voucher, they could choose to put you on a first come/first serve available taxi instead, so be sure  to have your voucher with you.  

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Private Taxi Recommendation for St Thomas, USVI

We HIGHLY recommend pre-arranging taxi service when arriving at the St Thomas airport.  Shared taxis can be expensive, uncomfortable, and it will take you twice as long to get to Compass Point. 

 

Elite Transportation  (340)-474-2495
A&P Taxi Service  (340)-642-4966
Best Taxi  (340)-777-2378
Big Love’s Taxi  (340) 201-7299
Mr. Nice Guy Taxi  (786) 296-8767
Prestige Taxi  (340) 643-7002

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Once you are at the marina and wanting to head out to shop for provisions or go to dinner, call East End Taxi as they serve the East End and Red Hook areas of the island. 

East End Taxi (340) 775-6974

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What Time Can We Board?

Officially your charter starts at 12 noon on the first day and ends at 12 noon on the last day.  Sleep aboards begin anytime after 3 pm.  We try to be very flexible with those times and will work with you to better accommodate your needs, assuming the boat is ready.  We can't guarantee that will always be the case, but we will do our very best to help with ease of travel. 

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Office Hours & Late Arrivals

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Our office hours are:

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  • Monday – Saturday: 8:30 AM until 4:30 PM

  • Sunday: 9:00 AM until 12:00 noon
     

If you are arriving after hours, a packet with directions to your boat and other helpful information for your sleepaboard night will be left outside our office door. For BVI charters, you will need to pick up your packet to obtain the gate card.  You will not be able to access the dock without it.

What Time Can We Expect Our Briefings?

We strive for flexibility to make your departure as convenient as possible. Typically, boat briefings begin around 9:00 AM, and we aim to have all our guests off the dock no later than 12:00 noon.

What Happens If We Arrive After Hours?

If you expect to arrive after hours, please communicate this to us in advance so we can plan for your arrival. We will leave an arrival packet for you outside our office door, which will include directions to your yacht and a map of the marina.

Are There Restaurants Nearby?

Restaurants
VILLAGE CAY MARINA, ROAD TOWN, TORTOLA, BVI

Village Cay Marina is located in the heart of Road Town with tons of great options for dining, shopping, ATMs, car rentals, hotels, and more.

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Village Cay Marina On-Site Restaurant http://www.villagecaybvi.com/restaurant/

On Site Wellness Deli-Connected to the restaurant, the deli has great options for those who don't want to wait. (We eat here alot!)

D' Best Cup-Just beyond the deli, you'll find a great little coffee shop and breakfast/lunch buffet-style offerings.  Great food, Wifi, and it's always nice and cool!

Burgers and Crepes-Just across the parking lot from our office, you'll see Burgers and Crepes.  This is definitely a "to-go" kind of place, but the burgers are great and its a 3 minute walk back to your boat.

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Capriccio di Mare-We LOVE this restaurant and eat here often. You'll find it across from the Road Town Ferry Terminal and about a 7 minute walk from Village Cay.  Fantastic food, cool easy vibe. Don't want to eat in, grab one of their pizzas to-go. You'll be glad you did.  https://www.capricciobvi.com/

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Pusser's Road Town Pub-Easy dine-in or takeout off Main Street in Road Town.  Click here to see the menu or order online: https://grub.pussers.com/

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There are lots of options in and near the marina!  

COMPASS POINT MARINA, ST THOMAS, USVI

Within our marina we have one restaurant, Dive Bar, and they cook up amazing burgers, brats, and chicken sandwiches on their grill.  Dive Bar is a popular hang out for the many day charter businesses in Compass Point as well as a local favorite.  Dive Bar is open from 3pm until 11pm daily and is the best place to get on island time.

 

For a delicious breakfast or a nice cup of coffee, or even a Bloody Mary or Mimosa, you'll want to visit An Hour Late, located near our office. You can also enjoy lunch there and even purchase some sandwiches for your first lunch out on the water.  Open from 7am-2pm.

 

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Red Hook is a five minute cab ride away where you will find a wide variety of restaurants, bars, and often times live music.  There's never a shortage of fun in Red Hook!​​

Weather and Mechanical

Weather, Mechanical, and Onboard Issues

What Happens If Weather Becomes an Issue?

It is extremely rare for a charter to be significantly affected by weather. However, if you plan to charter during storm season, we highly recommend protecting your investment with travel insurance.

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VIYC is not responsible for any costs incurred due to weather, including:

  • Loss of charter or charter days

  • Procuring alternate accommodations

  • Rescheduled flight fees

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Always be prepared by protecting your investment with Travel Protection Insurance Coverage.

What Happens in the Case of Mechanical Issues?

Keep in mind that we have a very capable maintenance team that takes extremely good care of our yachts. If you are having issues while on the water, the first thing you'll want to do is to contact us.  We can't help you if we don't know you are having problems.  Most issues can be solved over the phone or through text.  We want everything to work properly for you and will make arrangements for someone to come to your yacht if we can't troubleshoot over the phone. 

 

If the vessel is at any time out of commission for more than 4 hours, during regular business hours, we will credit charterer in the form of credits against future charters or refunds for lost sailing time, providing the charterer notifies VIYC of any problem encountered with the vessel in a timely manner and gives VIYC the opportunity to make necessary repairs. VIYC is not be liable for any lost sailing time, chase boat expenses or labor time if the breakdown or problem was caused by operator error or carelessness on behalf of the charterer or his crew.

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