7 Day BVI Yacht Charter Itinerary: Norman Island, Peter Island, Spanish Town, Mountain Point, North Sound, Anegada, Jost Van Dyke 
6 Must-See Natural Wonders of the the British Virgin Islands 
5 Best Secluded Anchorages in the BVI: Sailing Charters BVI 
Top 10 All-Inclusive BVI Motor Yachts from $23,400 for 2024/2025 
Top 10 Affordable All-Inclusive Catamaran Rentals BVI $15k-$30k/Week 
5 Best Crewed Catamaran Charters BVI with USVI/BVI Cruising Permit 
Why Use a Yacht Charter Broker? BVI Luxury Yacht Charters 
Why Charter Guests Love These 5 Luxury Catamarans – BVI Catamaran Charter Reviews 
Top 10 Verified & Recommended BVI Motor Yacht Charters 
TOP 10 Broker Verified & Recommended BVI Catamarans 
Top 10 Reasons to Charter in The BVI 
How To Get To The British Virgin Islands – A Comprehensive Guide 
6 Best Things to Do on a British Virgin Islands Yacht Charter 
What yacht charter are you looking for?
BVI Yacht Charter
We help plan your perfect yacht charter vacation in the British Virgin Islands
Types of Crewed Yachts in the BVI
What yacht type is best for a British Virgin Islands crewed yacht charter vacation? We recommend either chartering a catamaran or a motor yacht. Why? The water in the British Virgin Islands is very shallow, which greatly limits accessibility for deep-drafted yachts.
“We have seen a growing demand for luxury motor yachts among high-end charter guests.”
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BVI Catamaran Charters
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Read MoreWhy Should I Choose a Crewed Catamaran for my BVI Yacht Charter?
The British Virgin Islands has long been known as one of the best catamaran destinations in the world. Why? Because the water is perfectly clear, the sailing conditions are ideal, with protected waters and steady trade winds, and the island vibe is amazing!
The water in the BVI is also very shallow, limiting access for deeper-drafted vessels. – The shallow draft of catamarans is a huge advantage in the BVI!
Catamarans have evolved significantly and are now bigger and more luxurious than ever, making them a popular option even in high-end charters.
With their larger size, superior stability, and luxurious amenities, guests can enjoy more comfort while on their BVI yacht charters. AND they are still the most affordable option!
A fully crewed catamaran is a great alternative to motor yachts, especially above the 60ft+ range.
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BVI Motor Yacht Charters
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Read MoreWhy Should I Choose a Crewed Motor Yacht for my BVI Yacht charter?
Even though the British Virgin Islands has traditionally been known as a catamaran destination, we have seen a growing demand for larger luxury motor yachts among high-end charter guests.
There are now over 200 large (100+ feet meters) motor yachts operating in the BVI in the high season.
Motor yachts offer more privacy and prestige, more water toys, and comfort as they can accommodate a larger number of guests and crew. (Note that jet skis are not allowed in the BVI).
The lack of deep-water harbors significantly limits docking for deep-drafted vessels. This is why most larger motor yachts come across from Yacht Haven Grand in the USVI.
When chartering a yacht from the USVI, it is important to work with a broker who knows what yachts have permits to travel between the USVI and the BVI.
The British Virgin Islands
Yacht Charters typically start from Nanny Cay Marina on Tortola Island. (Most larger motor yachts come across from the US Virgin Islands.)
From here, we suggest you do an anti-clockwise route first, heading down to the smaller islands of Norman, Peter, and Cooper Island. Then head up to Virgin Gorda, famous for The Baths National Park. And finish by going over the top of Tortola to Jost Van Dyke Island, famous for the legendary beach bars Soggy Dollar Bar, Foxy’s, and Ivans.
If you have more time, or you have chartered a faster motor yacht, you can also head up to Anegada Island, a prime spot for diving on the Anegada barrier reef, one of the largest in the Caribbean.
Our Team
Our Charter Brokers bring extensive firsthand experience, having served as crew members, captains, or chefs on yachts in the past. This knowledge equips them with the insight needed to assist you in making the perfect decision for your British Virgin Island yacht charter.
Marcelle Hailwax
Charter Broker
Nadja Asmus
Charter Broker
Alex Hailwax
Charter Broker
Martina Asmus
Owner, Charter Broker, Active CYBA Member, IYBA, ECPY
John Boullin
Charter Broker
Sarah Klische
Charter Broker
Louis Lamprell
Charter Broker
William Mc Nally
Charter Broker
Mo Pristas
CharterGuru
Yanna Pristas
Senior Charter Broker, Associate CYBA Member
Chris de Kock
Charter Broker
Daniel Asmus
Owner, Charter Broker, Active CYBA Member, IYBA, ECPY
We Inspect the Yachts
Choosing the best BVI yacht charter goes beyond size and style—it’s about attention to detail.
Our team is adept at scrutinizing every aspect of a yacht to ensure it meets our high standards. This includes evaluating things like fuel consumption, generator noise, and electronic systems.
We also assess the flexibility of the menu, the dynamics among the crew, and how family-friendly the yacht is, checking for features like bunk beds and water toys for children.
We don’t overlook the smaller touches either; complimentary toiletries and the quality of bedding are also on our checklist.
To gain these super insights, we attend multiple yacht shows each year, thoroughly inspect the yachts, and meet the crew in person.
Chartering a Yacht from the US Virgin Islands to the British Virgin Islands
If this is your first time visiting the Virgin Islands, we recommend chartering in only one of the island groups.
There is simply that much to discover, and adding both the BVI and the USVI to one itinerary can become quite overwhelming.
Think of it like this: Do you want to spend your time exploring the islands or sailing between them?
Furthermore, sticking to one island group will significantly simplify your yacht selection, as you do not have to worry about the hassles of crossing country borders in your yacht.
Charter yachts need special permits to cruise between both island groups, and not every yacht has the right paperwork.
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Read MoreAnd now, let’s flip the coin: If you’re feeling adventurous and have chartered in the Virgin Islands before, we encourage you to get in touch with us.
We can provide you with detailed information about the yachts that have the necessary paperwork to sail between the British Virgin Islands and the United States Virgin Islands.
It is important to consider that, depending on the weather, it can take up to 4 hours to sail between St. Thomas and Tortola.
In addition, the yacht, crew, and guests have to undergo immigration procedures upon arrival, which can also take some time.
“Be sure to pick a broker who knows what paperwork is needed to go to the British Virgin Islands and can check that the paperwork is actually done. This is the biggest issue we are seeing.” Mo Pristas, Charter Guru with DMA Yachting.
Best Destinations for a Yacht Vacation in the British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a prime sailing destination, typically starting from Tortola, the largest island, where many charters are based.
From there, you can explore east to Virgin Gorda, famous for The Baths National Park, a natural wonder of seaside boulders and pools.
North Sound, close by, offers luxurious resorts and watersports.
The Sir Francis Drake Channel acts as a marine highway with calm waters, leading to lively spots like Norman Island and Jost Van Dyke, home to the famous beach bars of White Bay.
To the south of the channel, smaller islands like Cooper Island, Salt Island, and Peter Island are charming, quieter destinations with excellent snorkeling and cozy beach bars.
Our clients also like to visit The Indians near Norman Island, offering vibrant coral reefs for amazing snorkeling adventures.
OUR FAVORITE SPOTS
The most common 8-day charter itinerary in the British Virgin Islands looks like this:
- Nanny Cay
- Sunset Loop (Peter Island)
- Virgin Gorda
- Anegada Island
- Cane Garden Bay
- White Bay on Jost Van Dyke
- West End and Back
With our customizable BVI sailing itinerary, you can tailor your journey to include any destination you desire, ensuring a truly personalized experience in the British Virgin Islands.
Virgin Gorda
Virgin Gorda is the third largest island in the British Virgin Islands, with just over 4,000 people.
It’s known for its beautiful white sands, the rock pools known as The Baths National Park, and world-class luxury resorts and clubs for BVI yacht charters.
There are also some great hiking trails on Virgin Gorda with sweeping views of the island’s coastline-making it an ideal destination for visitors with bareboat catamarans.
After soaking up the sunshine and saltwater activities in Virgin Gorda, consider visiting the Copper Mine National Park. These 19th-century abandoned ruins are found between Copper Mine Bay and Crooks Bay on the island’s southeastern point. The structures were built by Cornish miners and housed around 130 families before the mine was closed in 1862.
Jost Van Dyke
Jost Van Dyke, one of the smallest leeward islands, is renowned for its exceptional scuba diving, thanks to its vibrant marine life, making it a top destination for snorkeling and water sports enthusiasts.
But what really makes Jost Van Dyke stand out as a charter destination is its super great vibe and positive energy around White Bay and Great Harbour.
Don’t miss a visit to the Great Harbour Bars of Foxy’s and Ivan’s for a drink, the peaceful energy of Diamond Cay, and the crashing waves of Bubbly Pool.
Swim from your boat to the famous Soggy Dollar bar for a painkiller. Hang out in the hammock in Hendo’s Hideout, get a roti or seafood, and relax on the beach. Weekends are more party-like, with day trips from USVI filling the beach bars.
Tortola Island
Tortola is the largest island in the British Virgin Islands. It’s home to some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Caribbean- especially in Cane Garden Bay. Tortola Island also has many historical sites and points of interest.
Don’t miss a visit to Smuggler’s Cove, a perfect shallow reef ideal for scuba beginners and untouched by civilization.
To get a taste of authentic Caribbean living from your BVI charter vacation, venture into Torrola’s Road Town.
The freedom of your own private yacht lets you explore the colorful streets and enjoy laid-back evenings tasting rum-infused cocktails from the beach bars.
A visit to the Callwood Rum Distillery is a must, as is a stroll around the Craft’s Alive Village for souvenir shopping.
Norman Island
Norman Island is another privately owned island, this 600-acre paradise on earth provides sandy coves and an extensive network of caves waiting to be explored. This island is a premium snorkeling destination for all water enthusiasts and BVI yacht charters.
The history of Norman Island is tied to pirates and legends tell that Norman Island was a place where they hid their treasures. Some say that Treasure Island, the famed novel by Robert Louis Stevenson, is based on the history of Norman Island.
The island has several bays and dive sites worth getting acquainted with, including Benures Bay and The Bight. You can also partake in an evening of drinking at the legendary floating bar of Willy T.
Anegada Island
This tiny island is arguably one of the most pristine places in the world, and it makes sense why it has become synonymous with white sand beaches.
Loblolly Beach, Bay Beach, and Cow Wreck Beach are not to be missed in BVI yacht charters.
Anegada Sea is also home to the largest barrier coral reef in the Caribbean. You’ll find turtles, nurse sharks, stingrays, and even manta rays!
The island has a modest road network and little traffic, and it is best discovered on a boat. However, those who choose to explore on land will find easy hiking trails that offer a unique view of the topography.
How Much Does a BVI Yacht Charter Cost?
In the past few years, we’ve observed a rise in prices. Finding a decent yacht under 20k in the British Virgin Islands is now a challenge, with most luxury charter deals starting at 30k.
Our yacht selection is huge and ranges in price from $15,000 to over $700,000 per week. Knowing your budget is a good way to narrow down your search for a private yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands.
To give you an idea of what you get for your money, you can take a look at our popular A3 Catamaran Charter, chartering for €29,000 per week, the high-end Ohana Catamaran Charter chartering for €80,000, and set at the same price; the much-loved Tail Light Motor Yacht Charter.
Price Category by Yacht Type:
- Smaller sailboats: you can find low-cost crewed charters between 10k-20k
- Smaller Catamarans: You are still able to charter a small catamaran for 12,5k. You can especially find many good deals during the off-season.
- Larger Luxury Catamarans: Priced between 70k and 100k, these prime catamarans are equal to motor yachts in terms of space and luxury.
- Motor yachts: You can find a small motor yacht with 3-4 cabins for 20k-50k
- High-end motor yachts: these are the epitome of luxury and often include amenities not found on other yachts, such as spa rooms, gyms, larger jacuzzis, and the whole collection of water toys, the price range is hard to pinpoint here, but starts somewhere around 60k and rises to over 700k.
Search by price in our extensive British Virgin Island yacht catalog or chat with one of our charter brokers for advice on setting your budget and expectations.
Also Read: Why Guests Love These 5 Luxury Catamarans
APA vs. All-Inclusive Yacht Charters
When planning a private yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands, there are two main options to consider: APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) yacht charters and All-Inclusive yacht charters.
When choosing between an APA yacht charter and an all-inclusive yacht charter, clients should consider their desired level of customization, budget flexibility, and overall vacation experience.
➧ APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance) Yacht Charters
An APA yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands is popular for clients seeking a customized, high-end experience. In this charter arrangement, the client pays a base fee for the yacht rental and crew.
On top of this base fee, an advance provisioning allowance (APA) is added, typically around 20-30% of the yacht’s base rental cost.
This APA is intended to cover expenses such as food, beverages, fuel, marina fees, and any other costs that might arise during the charter.
➧ All-Inclusive Yacht Charters
In contrast, an all-inclusive yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands offers a hassle-free experience with a set price that covers all expenses related to the yacht, crew, food, beverages, and activities.
Clients can relax and enjoy their vacation without worrying about additional costs or budgeting for unexpected expenses.
Nevertheless, the issues are the same as in a luxury All-inclusive resort – you can’t have a hot tub full of Moet…
“A typical charter in the British Virgin Islands is a large luxury crewed, all-inclusive catamaran. The catamaran offers all-inclusive charter services, with local spirits and food included. Please note that there are limitations on the selection – for example, if you’re looking for high-end tequila or premium cuts of meat every day, this may pose a challenge.” Charter Guru Mo Pristas
BVI has a 0% TAX on Yacht Charters
In the British Virgin Islands, there is no Value Added Tax (VAT)/ Sales Tax on yacht charters. This makes yacht charters significantly more affordable compared to charter destinations where VAT is applicable.
It is important to note that VAT is the norm in countries where chartering is popular, with some destinations, such as Greece, seeing VAT of up to 25%. Our charter brokers offer a hassle-free process.
Our Blog
Discover the Latest in Yachting with Us
We’re committed to staying on top of the latest trends in BVI yacht charters, from the launching of exciting new yachts to the best destinations and activities. Our blog serves as a resource to keep you informed and inspire new ideas for your adventures at sea.
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Read MoreHow do I get to my BVI Yacht Charter?
- British Virgin Islands: Lettsome International Airport – on Beef Island
- United States Virgin Islands: Cyril E. King Airport – in St. Thomas
These are the two international airports in the Virgin Islands.
Regardless of whether you are going to charter in the BVI or ISVI, you will find better flight connections to St. Thomas.
The airport in the BVI is small, and there are fewer flights on smaller planes.
On the other hand, the airport in St. Thomas has regular connections from many major US Cities such as Miami, Fort Lauderdale, New York, Atlanta, and more.
My Charter Starts in the BVI, but I am Flying into the USVI?
Most people arrive on the 16.15 flight in St. Thomas, and the last ferry to the BVI has already left, so you need to spend the night.
The next day, you can either take the public ferry, which makes multiple trips daily between St. Thomas and Tortola, or we can arrange a private taxi transfer directly to your yacht.
Once you have arrived at your yacht you will meet your crew and get settled in. Your charter begins at 12 p.m./noon.
When is the Best Time for a Yacht Charter in the British Virgin Islands?
The main charter season in the British Virgin Islands spans from December to March, with a peak around Christmas/New Year.
Make sure to book your BVI yacht charter well in advance. Ideally, you would inquire about your coming charter 12 months in advance.
WHY? The best charter yachts are often fully booked long in advance, and it’s not unusual to see popular dates booked 2 summers ahead for a BVI yacht charter. Inquiring less than 6 months ahead often means that your first choice is unavailable for charter.
JC
Jordan C.
Apr 23, 2024
Great communication
Communication was the key to our successful trip. Chris at DMA Yachting kept us informed about what to expect, upcoming payments, etc. He was on top of the one hiccup we had and really turned a negative into a positive. Would definitely us them again.
EI
Ecstatic in NJ
Mar 15, 2024
We had an amazing vacation to the BVI
We had an amazing vacation to the BVI. Chris from DMA walked me through the process step by step the entire way. He listened to what I was looking for, answered all my questions, anticipated follow-up questions, and was proactive throughout. I will certainly be using Chris and DMA again.
LF
Lisa Fisher
Jan 9, 2024
William was excellent at assisting at the last minute to locate the charter. He was super responsive and professional. The Oceana was the perfect fit for our family, not only the right size. Captain Umbi is an amazingly kind and warm person. He took us to amazing locations and hikes and did everything to make sure we were well taken care of. Lindsey was awesome. She worked tirelessly cooking so many delicious dishes and accommodated everyone’s dietary restrictions, from vegans, to gluten free. Everything was perfect. The only way to really experience the BVI.
CU
Customer
Apr 1, 2024
Above and Beyond!!!
Above and Beyond!!!! From finding the right boat and crew to ensuring we had everything we needed to make the trip a success. Martina was extremely responsive and was able to take our trip goals and ensure a good fit. The Sun Daze charter in BVIs was truly first class and Kiki and Pieter were amazing. Thanks to everyone!!!
What do Our Clients Say?
Our clients speak of unparalleled service, exquisite yachts, and a seamless booking process, highlighting the excellence of their charter experiences in the British Virgin Islands.
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