What Qualifications Do I Need to Charter a Yacht in the Virgin Islands?

Imagine cruising around the Caribbean Sea with a few of your closest friends—sunshine, a constant breeze , and the crystal clear open water all around you. Chartering a yacht is a great way to connect with nature and make the most of your vacation. But before you can call yourself captain and set sail in paradise, there are a few things you’ll need to know. Here’s a quick look at the qualifications for chartering a yacht in the Virgin Islands. 

Do I Need an IPC for Chartering a Yacht? Do I need ASA 101/103/104/114 Bareboat Certifications?

One of the most common yacht charter qualifications is an International Proficiency Certificate. The IPC is an internationally recognized sailing certification that you can qualify for after taking a few ASA courses. While not technically required by law, some yacht charter companies may request that you carry proof of the certification or can otherwise prove your competency on the open waters. 

What Are the Yacht Charter Qualifications for the Virgin Islands?

Believe it or not, there aren’t strict requirements when chartering a yacht in the Virgin Islands. That said, each company varies in what they expect from prospective customers. Here is a list of common yacht charter qualifications from some of the most popular charter companies. Most charter companies are looking for years of experience or ASA 101/103/104/114 Bareboat Certifications.

• Your passport or another form of ID (if you are a US citizen traveling in the US Virgin Islands, your driver’s license will do!)
• Many companies will tell you an IPC is not strictly required, but it is recommended. 
• Previous experience charting and operating a yacht is necessary with most yacht charters in the Virgin Islands. This includes experience of how and where to anchor and experience navigating ocean waters and harbors. These are skills you will gain by taking ASA 101/103/104/114 Bareboat Certifications. ASA courses. 
• You will likely need to email a resume showing experience sailing a comparable yacht. This is often required for both the captain and the first mate.
• If your resume doesn’t show the preferred experience, you may need that IPC or a trial sail with a trained captain.

• You must apply for a mooring permit to sail in national parks. 

Set Sail in the Virgin Islands

Now that you know the yacht charter qualifications in the Virgin Islands, you can begin planning your adventure on the Caribbean Sea. Because it’s a level 1 sailing destination, the Virgin Islands is a great place to bareboat charter for the first time. While no formal certification is required, they are encouraged, and Go Sail Virgin Islands offers a 10% discount to ASA members chartering a bareboat in the Virgin Islands. Always know your abilities, and if you have any doubts, take the appropriate ASA 101/103/104/114 Bareboat Certifications ASA certification courses from Go Sail Virgin Islands before chartering a yacht in the Virgin Islands.