FAQ: Sailboat Chartering
The Virgin Islands are one of the Caribbean’s crown jewels, with beautiful beaches, turquoise water and perfect sailing conditions. Visitors from around the world learn how to sail in the USVI and the BVl and continue to develop new skills in one of the most beautiful locations in the world. Once sailors have enough experience, they can charter a bareboat and sail on their own!
This is a unique experience that allows you to feel the freedom of sailing with your closest family and friends.
At Go Sail Virgin Islands, our ASA sailing instructors are here to help you prepare for your time on the water. These frequently asked questions can help you learn everything you need to know before sailing in the Virgin Islands.
What is bareboat chartering?
Bareboat chartering is when you rent a sailboat on your own, without other captains and crew on board. Instead of having a captain or instructor on board, experienced sailors venture out on their own and are responsible for navigating the boat. Go Sail VI charter company’s check out skippers will walk you through a safety check and even help you off the dock, so you can get started sailing on your own safely. Before bareboat chartering, we recommend getting your International Proficiency Certificate (IPC).
Why should I bareboat charter instead of hiring a captain?
Experienced sailors love the freedom of chartering a bareboat in the Virgin Islands. While our ASA sailing instructors are a lot of fun to sail with and know some of the best places to stop on a sailing trip in the Virgin Islands, some visitors prefer to set sail on their own, where they can sail, island hop, and relax at their own pace and on their own terms.
What crew do I need on a bareboat charter?
Captains will want to head out with a first mate and an able-bodied crew when they charter a bareboat in the Virgin Islands. You will need to make sure you have enough people to comfortably operate your boat, which depends on the size and type of vessel you sail. At least two people are required for smaller boats, while large boats may need more hands on deck.
What should I order for provisions delivery on a bareboat charter?
When planning your Virgin Islands sailing vacation, you’ll want to remember to order provisions. You can order ahead with companies like VI Provisioning, which deliver goods right to your boat. You’ll want to order food, extra water, coffee, alcohol, and any toiletries you may forget to pack.
How much does it cost to charter a sailboat yacht?
The cost of chartering a sailboat varies, depending on how long you plan to sail, when you visit, and what boat you rent. A smaller monohull will usually cost less than a large catamaran, and a week-long cruise less than sailing for a month. If you’re serious about sailing and want to inquire about pricing, fill out our bareboat charter form.
How do I pay for my bareboat charter?
Most charter companies allow you to pay online or via direct deposit. When you use a credit card, you have additional protection and may avoid international fees, depending on your card. Paying with direct deposit has fewer protections, but you can save up to 3% on credit card processing fees. At Go Sail VI, our online payment system is safe and easy to use!
What are the extra fees beyond the listed price on a bareboat charter?
When you book a charter in the British Virgin Islands, you need to pay for a cruising permit and national park fees. We also require a daily damage waiver. Some companies offer cancellation insurance, with varying fees. Preparation fees are also charged by some sailing operations, which cover the costs of cleaning and maintaining the boat. At Go Sail Virgin Islands, we want our sailing students and bareboat charter guests to know what to expect before sailing. If you have any questions about fees, email us.
What is the booking deposit for a bareboat charter?
When you charter a bareboat with Go Sail VI, we require a 50% deposit to secure your reservation. Other companies may charge similar fees, but it varies by location and sailing company.
What time of year is budget-friendly for bareboat chartering?
The best time of year to charter a bareboat for less is off-peak season, specifically June and July as well as November. Rates are typically lower during these months.
Explore the Virgin Islands on a Sailboat
Ready to set sail in the Virgin Islands on your own? If you’ve completed ASA sailing courses and logged enough nautical miles, you’re on your way to exploring the Virgin Islands as your own captain! Contact Go Sail VI to learn more about chartering a bareboat in the Virgin Islands.