See full version: Dollars and Cents: How much does Bareboat Chartering Cost
I was surprised to find that bareboat chartering is a very economical way to vacation IF you’re willing to vacation with a boatload of your (soon to be) closest friends. Your accommodations always have unlimited access to the worlds largest infinity pool!
Above all: always be courteous and friendly while negotiating!
None of our 26 people spent only 7 days in Europe so the flight cost is more of an approximation than the other trips.
If you or someone in your group is an experienced skipper then you can try a bareboat charter and sail the boat yourself. Bareboat means that the yacht only possesses the bare essentials and has no crew. Variations exist however; a skipper can be added, water toys are included, snorkeling and diving equipment perhaps, so the charter is not completely bare. For the ultimate in luxury and pampering consider a private yacht with a full crew including a cook; meals prepared for you at your request, choose your daily excursions and so much more. Some yachts have jacuzzis and spas, gymnasiums and even helicopters! For the price of a cruise you and your friends and family can sail in comfort with first class service and have everything be about you and just you. more
Are unique sailing vessels that can range in size from 45 feet to 60 feet. Most catamarans are designed to carry up to 8 passengers comfortably. Prices average $1,800 per person for one week, based on 6 passengers.
The Virgin Islands are considered one of the finest sailing grounds in the world. They offer sunny weather, dependable trade winds, beautiful scenery, protected anchorages and short passages between islands. Chartering a sailboat, catamaran or yacht is unquestionably a fantastic way to explore the islands. Imagine your honeymoon; cruising into quiet anchorages, eating dinner on the water at sunset or running down a sandy white bay on an unpopulated island. Picture your family vacation; kids enjoying the beach and the whole experience of it all and adults enjoying everything from water sports and romantic sunsets to special time with the kids and the relaxing environment. Sounds wonderful doesn’t it? Here is more.
A charter vacation in the Virgin Islands combines the atmosphere of a Caribbean cruise and the quality and service of an exclusive resort into an experience that is better than both!
A typical 7-day itinerary for the USVIs features charter stops in St. Thomas, St. John and the territory’s surrounding rocks and cays. St. Croix, located 40 miles to the south, could be a bit ambitious to reach given the distance, but there are ways to include the nicknamed ‘Twin City’ island’ into an itinerary (see Sidebar).
Magens Bay, St. Thomas. Photo courtesy of The Moorings more
Spend the day exploring St. John’s north shore beaches. “The crown jewel of the Virgin Islands National Park, Trunk Bay, is an unbelievably photogenic paradise. Featuring 650 feet of underwater trails, this is the perfect place to snorkel,” recommends Pedersen. Then, go to Francis Bay to overnight. “Maho Bay Beach is a great place to spot turtles and rays in the seagrass and shallow waters. If you want to try the local atmosphere, get lunch at Maho Crossroads – a pop-up village with food and bar,” adds Lockyer. here
The US Virgin Islands offer tropical weather almost all-year-round, except for the months of July to October, which is hurricane season. Since the islands belong to the hurricane belt, yacht charters are very scarce during these months. That means yachting season in the islands start in November and end in June or July. The best time for a yacht charter in the Virgin Islands is the early months of summer in the Caribbean, which are the months of March to July, with nonexistent rainfall and the sunniest skies you can ever imagine.
And of course, if you truly want to experience the quintessential yacht charter adventure in the US Virgin Islands, a one-week liveaboard is the best way to do that. Here is a sample itinerary for your one-week liveaboard: more
Located on the east coast of St. Thomas, this sheltered oasis on Great St. James Island is home to sea turtles and beautiful marine life. A great spot for snorkeling and diving, those who don't wish to enjoy the waters can head inland and enjoy the range of seafood restaurants serving freshly-caught lobster. here