Top Tips for Discovering the Best Bareboat Sailing Destinations

From choosing daily activities to deciding how long your sailing vacation should be, there is a lot to consider when chartering a bareboat in the Virgin Islands. When you spend a week on a liveaboard cruise with Go Sail VI, we help you choose some of the top sailing locations in the Virgin Islands that you can enjoy again when you charter a bareboat. However, here are a few other things to consider when bareboating in the BVI or USVI.

Choose the Right Length for Your Sailing Vacation 

How long should your sailing vacation in the Virgin Islands be? It depends on your budget. 

We generally recommend spending at least a week when chartering a bareboat in the Virgin Islands. Our sailing courses last 6-7 days, which is enough time to experience some of the best sailing destinations on the USVI and BVI. Oftentimes, people like to repeat this same length of trip for their first bareboat charter to get the hang of sailing on their own. 

If you have extra time and the budget for it, we’d recommend extending your sailing vacation, as there are hundreds of beaches, dive sites, and hiking trails to enjoy.

Decide When to Sail

When choosing the best bareboat sailing destinations, it’s important to factor in when you plan to sail. While most of the Virgin Islands offer relatively calm waters and weather much of the year, it can get challenging during hurricane season. 

Plan ahead if you choose December to April. You should get the best sailing conditions, but it is also the busiest time of year. 

Peak hurricane season is from August through October. Sailing is more affordable due to the potential weather issues, but more experienced sailors may enjoy the quieter docks and lower rates.

Reserve Permits for National Parks

Some of the top bareboat sailing locations in the USVI are in the national parks. You need mooring permits if you plan to visit, and it’s best to reserve them ahead of time. 

We take care of the permitting if you take our sailing courses, but you’ll want to reserve permits ahead of time when you bareboat sail. 

Consider Your Sailing Crew

It should go without saying, but communication is key when sailing with your spouse, family, or friends. Talk to your group ahead of time to plan out what your capable crew wants out of the sailing trip. 

Some areas, like the US Virgin Islands, are ideal for novice sailors and families. Others, like the Spanish Virgin Islands, are more rustic and won’t have the same amenities—these are best for more serious sailors.

Bring a Passport

US citizens don’t need a passport to discover the best sailing destinations in the USVI or SVI, but you will need one if you sail to the British Virgin Islands. 

Carry the proper documentation to give you the most flexibility if you are chartering a bareboat to different regions of the Virgin Islands.

Traveler’s Insurance

there is always an element of danger when sailing the open waters. You never know when you may need medical attention, and buying traveler’s insurance can save you a lot of money on your trip. 

Charter a Bareboat to the Best Destinations in the Virgin Islands

Ready to charter a bareboat and explore the top sailing spots in the Virgin Islands? After you take ASA courses with Go Sail VI, you can charter a bareboat and enjoy the freedom of setting sail on a private yacht with your family and friends. Happy sailing!