While crewed sail boat charters and bareboat charter vacations normally last 5 to 7 nights, not everyone has the time for a multi-night term luxury yacht charter. In this economy, saving up for a special bareboat charter or luxury yacht charter holiday might mean postponing until 2010.
Now for the good news – sailboat charters can be as short as one day and are the perfect compliment to a land-based Caribbean island vacation.
Let’s take a look at a single-day luxury yacht charter escape in the British Virgin Islands (also known as the BVI or BVI’s).
There are four major inhabited islands in the BVI, as well as dozens of (nearly 60) smaller islands, cays, and rocks scattered throughout the archipelago. Of course, the fun way to see these sights is by boat on a luxury sailing charter.
You can rent a small Caribbean yacht charter sailboat or a fast powerboat for the day in Road Town, Nanny Cay, West End, or several other locations. Some experience driving a powerboat or basic chart-reading skills are important to ensure you have a pleasurable day.
A great trip could start from Road Town, Tortola and head south across the Sir Francis Drake Channel to Peter Island. You can tie up to the dock in Sprat Bay, or anchor off the beach in Deadman’s Bay and swim ashore (remember to wear your water socks). Visitors are welcome in the public areas, the boutique, and the beach grill.
From Peter Island, it’s a short boat ride to Norman Island. This is author Robert Louis Stevenson’s legendary Treasure Island, and the source of countless tales of pirates and buried chests of gold. Today, the island is uninhabited except for a small restaurant on the beach in the Bight. Anchored in the bay is the old ship, William Thornton, affectionately known by bareboat charter lovers and the locals as the “Willy T,” a trading vessel converted to a bar and restaurant. It’s a great stop for a little “pirate” ambiance. Be warned – on holiday weekends, the Willy T is not appropriate for kids as it takes on a bawdy “adults only” atmosphere.
Just outside the bay are the Caves. These are more like grottoes and are a true snorkeler’s delight. You can tie up your boat to one of the National Park moorings and swim in. Don’t be surprised if a school of tropical fish swim alongside you, looking for a handout. The locals ask that you resist the temptation to feed the little critters, however. Human food is not healthy for the fish and may do them great harm in the long run.
After snorkeling at the Caves, it is a short boat ride to The Indians. These rock outcroppings are the size of houses and full of nesting seabirds in the summer. The waters around the rocks are teeming with fish of every shape and color. One local describes a swim here as a magical experience: “Floating among the fish, corals and sea fans will make you feel like Peter Pan flying through an enchanted forest.”
If the sun is still high in the sky, and you still feel fresh for more adventure, zip over to Salt Island. You can tie up to the dock and walk around the abandoned houses to the salt pond where workers harvest and sell sea salt. If you still have any get-up-and-go in your tank, hop back on your boat and cruise around the corner to the wreck of the HMS Rhone, the BVI’s first underwater park. Snorkel over the wreck and try to imagine what it looked like before it sank in 1867!
By now, you realize you are on “island time.” There’s little reason to hurry back to Tortola, unless you have an early dinner reservation at your hotel or resort. Assuming you are in the island groove, we suggest a cruise east to Cooper Island. Accessible only by boat, this island has a few rental homes and a tiny resort that’s looks like a vacation postcard from the water – palm trees and long, white sand beach. By now, you must be hungry from a morning/afternoon of exploring. Drop in a local restaurant for a late lunch. With a full belly and a big smile, it’s just a short sail or cruise back to Tortola.
There are many other itineraries for a day trip by boat. Your hotel concierge can recommend the best local boat rental operators and give you some ideas as to where to go and what to see there. You can go fast on a powerboat or slower on a sailboat – the choice is yours. Either way, a day boat trip around the British Virgin Islands will be the highlight of your land-based island holiday!
This entry was posted in Caribbean Destinations and tagged British Virgin Islands yacht charter, Willy T., barrier reef in the BVI, William Thornton, British Virgin Islands, Treasure Island, yacht charter Caribbean, bareboat, Robert Louis Stevenson, sailing yacht charters, skin dive, grottoes, sailboat charter, snorkel, HMS Rhone, Snorkeling, caribbean reefs, The Indians, sailboat, Sir Francis Drake Channel, Underwater Park, bareboat charter, Peter Island, caribbean yacht charter, Norman Island, BVI, The Caves
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Thinking about a St Barts yacht charter this December on a comfortable, head-turning megayacht? If you are, we have great news.
Two Amels Limited Editions 180 superyachts have just announced plans to head to the Caribbean this winter, and both will remain in the area through Spring 2017.
Amels motor yachts ELIXIR and 4YOU, Limited Editions 180 models are available this December. Specifically, 2016 through April, 2017 for British Virgin Island yacht charter reservations. Furthermore, they avail south in the area of St. Martin and St Barts, as well.
Amels yacht 4YOU, a 2012 build, features a stunning contemporary Laura Sessa interior. She sleeps 10 to 12 in 6 guest cabins. Newer yacht ELIXIR offers accommodations for 10 guests in 5 cabins. She also boasts a Laura Sessa interior. In addition, she is a bit more eclectic than 4YOU.
The Limited Editions AMELS 180 series by naval architect Tim Heywood is ever-evolving. Specifically, it is one of the most refined and smooth-functioning yachts in the 55-meter range. The Master suite has folding balcony. There are also two more balconies attached to the main desk salon.
The roomy Sun Deck is 25 meters long. It has a luxury space of 155 square meters. This is quite possibly the largest sun deck you encounter on any 55 meter charter vessel.
The yachts’ rates begin at €275,000 per week. Further, they are up to €310,000 per week for holiday dates.
This entry was posted in News Yacht of the Week Caribbean and tagged St. Martin, Caribbean, yacht charter Caribbean, Elixir, Amels, Amels 180, Superyacht, Laura Sessa interior, holiday yacht charter, Tim Heywood, BVI, Spring yacht charter, British Virgin Islands yacht charter, St. Barths, British Virgin Islands, 4You, St. Barts yacht charter
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The manager of 100 foot superyacht INSATIABLE reached out to us today. Seems the owner of this super-popular Virgin Islands yacht charter vessel wants to shore up a gap in his reservation calendar and has offered us an incentive to secure a booking during the last two weeks of January, 2017.
Per the yacht’s manager, the owner of Broward yacht INSATIABLE has graciously offered us $1000 for any 7-night yacht charter Virgin Islands reservation we can deliver, to close his calendar for January.
This is given in the spirit of Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters and her Team’s belief in Generosity and Giftivism. A gift to start your year off right. If you charter yacht INSATIABLE through 1-800 Yacht Charters, for either the third or fourth week of January, 2017, in the British and/or US Virgin islands, we’ll pass our $1000 bonus on to you – in the form of an instant rebate.
This is an exclusive offer – only available from 1-800 Yacht Charters – with our compliments.
Built by Broward Marine, the 100 foot yacht INSATIABLE offers affordable luxury for up to 6 guests in 3 staterooms. She recently received a brand new paint job, and underwent a refit, with many interior upgrades. Her special features make her the ultimate Virgin Islands luxury yacht charter option for small families or three couples. For instance, 32′ Intrepid center console towed tender, with twin 225 horsepower Mercury engines. It is great for fishing or exploration. In addition, a second tender, a 14′ Novurania with 50 mph that is excellent for towing a wake board or water-skiing. Next, a wave runner and 2 single-person kayaks. Moreover, the yacht has lots of snorkel gear. Lastly, she has three double guest cabins.
Caribbean Rate: $29,500 USD per week + running expenses (items such as food, fuel, bar, dockage, etc.)
You’ll receive an instant rebate of $1000 off the rate of $29500, and pay only $28,500 – a savings of 3%
BOOKED: December 23-January 2 (BVI)
BOOKED: January 7-14 (BVI)
OPEN: January 16 – 31 (BVI)
You can only get the special $1000 offer by making your reservation with us! In conclusion, hurry and take advantage of this great offer. Compliments of 1-800 Yacht Charters. Fill out our online inquiry form at https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/ right now.
This entry was posted in Caribbean Special Offers and tagged British Virgin Islands, discount, Giftivism and Generosity, special rate, yacht charter Caribbean, specials, private luxury yacht charter, Insatiable, motoryacht charter, Novurania, Broward, generosity, virgin islands yacht charter, caribbean yacht charter, BVI
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Thinking of sheltering in place? First, in a remote destination? Second, in private? Third, on a luxury yacht charter vessel? Great thought, but STOP. Before you get your hopes up, we have a report. Getting on a yacht may be a BIG problem right now. This is a result of more islands closing their borders to yachts. It is particularly difficult for all.
Traditionally, spring is the most popular season for Caribbean yacht charters. We have fully-crewed superyachts in position. They are ready to accept guests. For example, from the Bahamas to Bonaire.
Unfortunately, the unexpected outbreak of a global viral pandemic has affected the industry. It brings the idea of a charter in the Caribbean to a screeching halt.
This started as travel advisories and then curfews. It morphed into full closures of most island nations in the Caribbean. This affects both air and sea access.
In some cases, charter guests already onboard may stay onboard. However, as of March 30, most charter vessels are restricted. Therefore, they cannot accept new guests in almost every inhabited island in the Caribbean. For instance, the British Virgin Islands and St. Marten.
Restrictions exist. For instance,
In conclusion, this is not a complete list of all restrictions in the Caribbean. Border and marina/port closures change rapidly. Moreover, air traffic suspensions change, too. In the meantime, 1-800 Yacht Charters will keep this information updated as much as possible. We encourage our blog readers to check official country websites and local news sources for the latest travel advisories and closures/restrictions. For specific luxury yacht charter questions, please email us at info@1800yachtcharters.com
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Caribbean News and tagged Coronavirus, St. Martin, Dominica, Aruba, restrictions, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, ABC's, curfews, USVI, stay informed, Guadeloupe, Trinidad, advisories, St. Maarten, virus updates, Nevis, contact us, Anguilla, Martinique, pandemic, closures, Grenadines, Grenada, global pandemic, St. Kitts, Barbuda, Dominican Republic, Montserrat, United States Virgin Islands, DR, Bahamas, US Virgin Islands, marinas, Marie Galante and the Saints, BVI, Barbados, Antigua, Curacao, Covid-19, British Virgin Islands, airports, Bonaire
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Scrub Island Resort Spa and Marina (tks to Wikipedia)
Hurricane Irma struck the British Virgin Islands in early September, 2017. She left destruction. For instance, a trail of battered yachts, debris-filled beaches, and widespread destruction.
Fast forward 2-plus years. The island chain is once again as popular as ever as a world-class yacht charter destination! The islands are back to normal. For example, the debris is gone, the marinas are rebuilt, and the white-sand beaches are once again glistening in the rays of the warm Caribbean sun.
Great news! There is a new reason to choose the BVI this spring for your Caribbean superyacht experience. DUTY FREE FUEL.
The British Virgin Islands (BVIs) government amended its custom regulations in December 2019. They now offer duty free fuel to yachts.
Jana Sheeder, President of 1-800 Yacht Charters, explains:
“As long as your luxury charter yacht remains in the BVI for a minimum three days, your crew can take advantage of these cost savings. Depending upon the size of the superyacht you charter, the savings can be significant.”
Andrew Fahie, the Premier of the BVI also commented on the new rule: “This will be a step in the right direction towards encouraging megayachts to make the BVI their home port,” says Andrew Fahie, the premier of the BVIs.
Other areas of the Caribbean, for instance, St Martin and St Barts, draw more megayacht visits. The BVIs seem prepared to give the other islands a run for their money.
Multiple marinas for deep-draft superyachts, especially sailing yachts, now exist.
The BVI has year-round warm temperatures and as a general rule. Not only that, but calmer waters occur here than in other areas of the Caribbean.
Flight times from the USA to the British Virgin Islands are shorter. Not only is there an international airport in Tortola suitable for both commercial and private jets. but there is also regular ferry service between the BVI and the nearby U.S. Virgin Islands.
If easy flight access, beautiful anchorages, and money-saving opportunities matter to you, consider the British Virgins for your next superyacht charter vacation this spring.
In conclusion, it is time to plan your yacht charter for the Spring. Why not enjoy The Superyacht Experience in a destination with duty free fuel? The savings that you enjoy on the fuel can be used to purchase a duty free piece of jewelry for your loved one, maybe? (wink) Book your yacht charter now by contacting 1-800 Yacht Charters at https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/ #thesuperyachtexperience #yachtcharter #1800yachtcharters
UPDATED! Passengers! Too many can make your yacht charter illegal
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter News Educational and tagged marina, BVI, duty free fuel, British Virgin Islands, Where is duty free fuel offered?, wellness, why choose, spa, BVI advantage for yacht charterers, wellness yacht charters, Hurricane Irma, yacht charter, Scrub Island, yacht charter Caribbean, Caribbean yacht charters, Scrub Island Resort Spa and Marina
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Q: “Our family is considering a Virgin Islands yacht charter vacation this winter. We are interested in “Green” travel opportunities and seeing destinations that focus on environmental sustainability. How can we analyze a destination’s commitment to sustainable tourism?”
A: The yachting industry continues to make great strides in it’s commitment to sustainability: from green initiatives to reduce plastic water bottle waste, to mega yacht charter vessels offering carbon offsets.
But the industry’s efforts are only half of the equation. The destinations and their commitment to their residents’ well-being and the protection of the environment are crucial for long term sustainability.
This entry was posted in Educational Destinations and tagged BVI, USVI, yacht charter virgin islands, GSTC, Global Sustainable Travel Council, rules at tourism bureaus, carbon offsets, plastic water bottle waste
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Moonlight Madness, anyone? What luxury sailing charter is complete without a little silliness and merriment with friends?
Although full moon parties take place in different corners of the world, any Virgin Island yacht charter enthusiast will tell you the parties that take place in the British Virgin Islands (aka, the BVI) are some of the most renowned – celebrating both lunar madness and traditional island culture.
Enjoy live entertainment while you dance the night away, try a Bomba Punch (rum punch) or sip on a Bomba “mushroom tea.”
If you are planning a Caribbean getaway on the water, the lunacy on Tortola, BVI takes place on the following days:
August 5, 2009
September 4, 2009
October 4, 2009
November 2, 2009
December 2, 2009
December 31, 2009 (What a perfect way to ring in the New Year!)
This entry was posted in Caribbean Destinations Special Events and tagged caribbean yacht charter, BVI, full moon yacht charter, British Virgin Islands, Bomba's Shack, Tortola, Full Moon party, Apple Bay, Capoon's Bay, yacht charter Caribbean
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Organizers of the Caribbean’s only Superyacht rendezvous and regatta gathered. They added a new racing division. It includes catamarans in a four-day Spring event, March 14 -17, 2012. The race takes place in the British Virgin Islands (BVI).
Boat International and Yacht Club Costa Smeralda are the organizers of the 2012 Caribbean Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous. They announced the addition of a catamaran category. This is the second edition of this unique event.
The racing will now be divided into three classes: performance, cruising and catamaran, with the entire fleet competing for the overall winner of Silver Cup, the Boat International Media Trophy, made by Garrard of London.
Organizers hope to bring together owners of motor yachts and luxury sailing charter vessels for four days of racing, fun activities and glittering social events in the idyllic surroundings of Virgin Gorda and her neighboring islands.
Participants of the 2012 Caribbean Superyacht Regatta & Rendezvous will be among the first to experience the brand new Clubhouse at YCCS Virgin Gorda Marina, and enjoy the fabulous facilities of Oil Nut Bay, making this event a truly unique occasion not be missed.
Participation is open to sail and motor yachts over 80ft, and catamarans longer than 60ft. Sail yacht Marie, Salperton, P2, and sail yacht Twizzle have already expressed their intention to participate.
Gather the family, rent a private yacht, and come explore the Caribbean. For details and pricing options, contact our destination specialists HERE.
This entry was posted in Caribbean News and tagged YCCS Virgin Gorda Marina, yacht charter Caribbean, luxury sailing charter, sailing yacht charters, Boat International, special events, Cost Smeralda, BVI, Yacht Club Costa Smeralda, British Virgin Islands, Caribbean Superyacht Regatta and Rendezvous, Virgin Gorda
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Catamaran Sailboat Yacht Charter Boat Dreaming On
April 2012:
We’re just back from a week on board sail catamaran DREAMING ON, sailing the BVIs in the capable hands of our wonderful crew, Geoff and Iza. We were also vacationing with another couple…and we all agreed that the whole experience exceeded our expectations by far, to the extent that we have already booked again for next year!
This is all down to Geoff and Iza who are a very special and generous couple – it was like sailing with good friends – the chemistry was perfect and we just hit it off.
They welcomed us on board their beautiful home and anticipated our every need. Iza is an amazing cook – the food (presentation, quality and variety) is better than you get in most good restaurants and all prepared in a galley kitchen – the sushi in particular was unbelievable! And Geoff…well, in our opinion he makes a better Painkiller than the Soggy Dollar (as well as being a great Captain).
They had arranged an itinerary for us (but it was flexible) and we went to different, islands and/or bays every day. For instance, a sail to Anegada, followed by a fabulous lobster dinner at the Reef Hotel – highly recommend this!
They took us to all their favorite spots in the BVIs and we couldn’t get enough of the clear blue waters and white sandy beaches – plenty of snorkeling, kayaking and paddle boarding to be had. In fact, we didn’t really have enough time just to hang out in one place for a day or go tubing or water-skiing, which is why we are returning next year. Now we know all the best spots and where we’d like to go back to and spend more time.
(Catamaran DREAMING ON) is comfortable and has plenty of space, both out the front on the ‘trampolines’ and the shady area at the back by the cockpit where we enjoyed breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Overall, for anyone out there considering a luxury yacht charter, I would highly recommend, without hesitation, DREAMING ON, and Geoff and Iza – it will be one of the (if not THE) best vacations of your life! We certainly can’t wait to get back on board next year…..
Name: Lindsey S.
This entry was posted in Yacht Charter Caribbean Good Times Testimonials Yacht of the Week and tagged British Virgin Islands, BVI yacht charter, yacht charter reviews, Dreaming On, catamaran charter, testimonial, catamaran sailboat yacht charter, yacht charter review, yacht charter Caribbean, sail cat, caribbean yacht charter, BVI, British Virgin Islands yacht charter
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“I’m looking forward to my first St. Martin yacht charter vacation, and my travel companions and I are having a Caribbean themed party to get super psyched about our trip. Any suggestions for top 5 cocktails (traditional / island) to put us in the proper frame of mind?”
Angel A., Miami, FL
Now that’s the spirit, Angel! What a fantastic idea to get pumped about your Caribbean escape.
We’re not too embarrassed to admit enjoying a libation or two (or three) during our own yachting excursions in the islands. Local specialties can be found throughout the Caribbean. but we’ve narrowed down the choices to our favorites (in no particular order).
As you sip these drinks, keep in mind you can heighten your experience by throwing on a pair of flip-flops, hiding behind a pair of Maui Jim sunglasses, and swaying to a little “Havana Daydreamin” with Jimmy Buffet.
Smooth sailing, Angel…
MOJITO – Cuba yacht charter
Some things are quintessential Cuban – hand-made cigars, guayabera linen shirts, and minty Mojitos. The history of Cuba’s signature drink dates back to the 16th century, when Sir Francis Drake and his comrades drank a mixture of crushed mint leaves, lime and unrefined rum. Locals say Hemingway drank them at Le Bodeguita del Medio in Havana, and James Bond enjoyed one in 2002’s Die Another Day.
PAINKILLER – British Virgin Islands yacht charter
Made with Pusser’s Rum, The Painkiller cocktail originated at the Soggy Dollar Bar on Jost Van Dyke island in the BVIs. The drink was once made with a secret rum recipe by Daphne Henderson, the owner of the Soggy Dollar. Charles Tobias, the founder of the Pusser’s rum distillery, persuaded Henderson to share her recipe. We’re glad she did, as Painkiller cocktails are now readily available throughout the Caribbean.
TI PUNCH – Martinique yacht charter
More an aperitif than cocktail, this simple mix of white rum, cane sugar and lime is usually served straight and is popular in all of the French Caribbean islands – Martinique, Guadeloupe, and the French side of St. Martin. Easy to make, it’s usually served “to taste” – drinkers are presented with a glass of rum, a lime, and some syrup to make it up as they wish.
We know what you’re thinking – we promised five killer cocktails but only named three. You caught us!
Submit our contact form at https://www.1800yachtcharters.com/book-now-contact-us/ requesting the other 2 great drinks. We’ll send you the names AND the recipes to make all 5 of our favorite island-themed Caribbean yacht charter cocktails. Look forward to hearing from you and sharing some cocktails!
What’s your favorite tropical cocktail to drink while on your yacht charter? Leave a comment below!
This entry was posted in Frequently Asked Questions Educational Good Times and tagged James Bond, mojito, Die Another Day, Painkiller cocktail, 1800yachtcharters, Ti Punch, 007, Martinique yacht charter, Ask The Pro's, apertif, cocktails, British Virgin Islands yacht charter, recipes, Cuba yacht charter, Pusser's Rum, Hemingway, Soggy Dollar Bar, Havana, yacht charter Caribbean, BVI
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