Catamarans

BVI Catamaran 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 British Virgin Islands 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. You can either opt for a BVI sailing vacation with one of the many beautiful sailing catamarans on offer. Or, if you wish for something more like a motor yacht, power catamarans are gaining a lot of popularity.

Man wakeboarding on vibrant blue waters in front of a large luxury yacht named 'Cartouche.' The yacht is docked in calm seas, with clear skies in the background. The image features the text 'BVI Luxury Yacht Charters' overlaid at the bottom, highlighting the excitement and luxury of yacht charters in the British Virgin Islands.

Where to Start Your BVI Catamaran Charter?

Most charters start from Tortola, the largest and most populated island in the British Virgin Islands. With distances between anchorages being under 20 NM, you can easily be in Jost Van Dyke, Peter Island, or Virgin Gorda Island before the end of the day.

You will also find some catamaran charters based in the USVI, but be aware that many catamarans are presented as ‘British Virgin Islands/US Virgin Islands’, but many don’t have a BVI license “yet”. After signing, you might be surprised that the boat can only do USVI.

We have on-the-ground experts in the British Virgin Islands who can advise and verify the paperwork of the yachts that are available to cruise in the British Virgin Islands waters.

Check out Charter Expert Nadja Asmus’ “Top 5 Catamaran Charters with the Right Paperwork to Charter in both USVI & BVI.”

Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola, BVI

Yacht Haven Grand, St. Thomas, USVI

The Evolution of BVI Catamaran Charters

The original charter concept in the British Virgin Islands started with Catamarans which were all initially owner-operated.

But as yacht charters became more popular in the Caribbean and the demand for larger and more luxurious vessels grew, the industry changed.

In the last 2 decades alone, Catamarans have evolved significantly, growing from around 40 feet in the year 2000 to over 70 feet in the 2020s.

This increase in size means they now offer more living space and water toys options, making them ideal for large groups on luxury vacations in the BVI.

The Advantage of a Shallow Draft

A crewed catamaran is the best way to navigate the wealth of islands and anchorages around the British Virgin Islands because of its shallow draft.

Take advantage of the shallow draft of your vessel to go where motor yachts can’t, like the world-famous Soggy Dollar Bar or the small group of islands known as the Indians (white sand beaches).

With a catamaran charter, you can anchor really close to the beach and easily swim or paddleboard to the bar.

See More with a Crewed Catamaran Charter

When it comes to luxury and comfort, a crewed yacht charter is unbeatable. As you cruise over the 50 islands surrounding the stunning Caribbean waters, you’ll experience a level of service and relaxation that a bareboat charter simply cannot match. This is especially true for large groups, where the expertise of a professional crew can make all the difference.

With a captain at the helm, you’ll explore the best-hidden spots, enjoy secluded coves, and discover diving areas such as The Wreck of the Rhone (stunning coral reefs)- one of the most interesting diving spots in the BVI during your sailing vacation.

A scuba diver swims over the bow of the ship wreck HMS Rhone. The RMS Rhone is a sunken UK Royal Mail ship that wrecked in a hurricane in 1867 killing 123 people. It is now a hotspot for divers who come to explore the well-preserved wreckage, teeming with marine life.

A close up underwater view of the vibrantly colored coral reef in the British Virgin Islands. Bright oranges and mild greens are visible.

Our Recommended Catamaran Charters
in the British Virgin Islands 2024

Our senior charter broker, Yanna Pristas, has selected these Top 10 BVI Catamaran Charters as a proposition of the first choice when choosing a crewed catamaran charter in the British Virgin Islands. Note that many of these are booked way ahead; inquiring early is essential.

12 reviews

Scuba Onboard

DEEP BLUE

From $30,700/week

4 cabins

58 ft

Leopard

8 guests

Refit: 2024

View

38 reviews

HEAVENLY

From $35,750/week

4 cabins

62 ft

Lagoon

8 guests

Built: 2016

View

IPHARRA

From $68,000/week

5 cabins

102 ft

Sunreef Yachts

10 guests

Refit: 2017

50 Litres/Hr

View

BUNDALONG

From $80,000/week

4 cabins

80 ft

Sunreef Yachts

8 guests

Refit: 2023

View

10 reviews

Jacuzzi

RELENTLESS II 80

From $94,000/week

4 cabins

80 ft

Sunreef Yachts

8 guests

Built: 2022

View

MIRA SOL

From $23,000/week

3 cabins

56 ft

Lagoon

6 guests

Refit: 2023

View

ONE PLANET

From $82,000/week

4 cabins

77 ft

Sunreef Yachts

8 guests

Built: 2023

View

38 reviews

Scuba Onboard

AUGUST MAVERICK

From $34,000/week

3 cabins

92 ft

Stephens

12 guests

Refit: 2018

6 US Gall/Hr

View

Scuba Onboard

TRU NORTH

From $49,500/week

4 cabins

67 ft

Fountaine Pajot

8 guests

Built: 2021

View

18 reviews

Scuba Onboard

XANDROS

From $59,000/week

4 cabins

65 ft

Lagoon

8 guests

Built: 2021

View

Top Tips for Luxury BVI Catamaran Charter

If you plan your next BVI yacht charter with a catamaran, there are direct flights to Beef Island airport or Ferry from St Thomas.

Most travelers prefer to fly to St Thomas and take a water taxi (we assist and help arrange). Why – there is a multitude of reasons starting with the price of flights – which are generally cheaper to USVI including a water taxi and ending with BVI airport having 2.5/5 reviews with most reviewers complaining about lack of AC and immigration procedures (sometimes too relaxed, other times unpleasantly meticulous). Island Time is a feature, not a bug.

Start your charter at Nanny Cay Marina on Tortola Island—the central point of any BVI charter. This well-equipped marina has a nice restaurant and the famous beach bar Peg Legs (have a Dark&Stormy) in the British Virgin Islands.

A new development of more power catamarans – mainly from Nanny Cay (marina)– offers many new catamarans in the 60+ and 70+ range, like JUSTIFIED HORIZONS and AEOLUS for your Luxury charters in the British Virgin Islands.

One of the most successful catamaran charters in the British Virgin Islands right now is OHANA, an 80-foot Sunreef with a fully equipped dive center and professional dive instructors on staff. Catamaran Ohana also has a luxury Villa in one of the best locations in the USVI—talk to one of our brokers for a combined SAIL+STAY with your own private yacht and villa in the Virgin Islands!!

Some luxury catamaran charters include a Jacuzzi on the bow or flybridge, but the law forbids Jet Skis in the British Virgin Islands. Instead focus on underwater and wind-driven sports – the British Virgin Islands is a top destination for these sports!

Make sure you are not planning your sailing vacation in the BVI during hurricane season, which usually hits in September.

Where to Go on a BVI Catamaran Charter

Most BVI catamaran charters depart from Nanny Cay, island hopping along Treasure Island, Norman Island, Peter Island, and Cooper Island on their way to Virgin Gorda. Depending on the weather, Anegada is often included. This catamaran charter route will cover the key attractions of the British Virgin Islands.

When on the way back, return via the Nort side of Tortola, hitting Cane Garden Bay and continuing to Jost Van Dyke – coming back through Sopers Hole.

If you finish your catamaran charter on Tortola, you can depart at the Hodges Creek marina and catch your flight from Beef Island Airport.

If you are approaching from USVI – crossing Jost Van Dyke or Tortola, you must pass customs first. However, the bigger crewed catamarans often move to Exumas for the summer.

Check out our recommended 7-Day BVI Sailing Itinerary!

Jost Van Dyke

Jost Van Dyke, the smallest leeward islands, is a must-see for yacht charters looking to experience some of the best scuba diving in the world.

The waters around the Jost Van Dyke land are flourishing with marine life- creating an incredible opportunity for snorkeling and other water sports.

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.

Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda, the third largest island in the British Virgin Islands, is one of the most iconic of the Caribbean Islands.

It’s known for its beautiful white sandy beaches, the natural rock formations and 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.

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 or by hiking.

Necker Island

If you’re looking for a getaway as close to paradise as possible, look no further than Necker Island for your British Virgin Islands Yacht Charter.

Necker Island is one of the world’s most exclusive and expensive destinations. Owned by Sir Richard Branson since 1978, it has been used as a private island for selective guests and celebrities such as Oprah Winfrey and David Bowie. And if you’re wondering whether you can enjoy some of this luxury, the answer is yes.

Guests can enjoy snorkeling and scuba diving in the clear waters surrounding the island or relax on one of the private beaches during their BVI Yacht Charter.

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.

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.

A visit to the Callwood Rum Distillery is a must, as is a stroll around the Craft’s Alive Village for souvenir shopping.

The Indians

Take your crewed catamaran to the Indians off Norman Island, BVI. Tie up to a public mooring ball and jump in for amazing snorkeling around the Indians (Called Indians as the rocks look like a mohawk). It is shallow on the one side and deeper on the other and has a small swim-through for advanced free divers.

Night dives are excellent there; residence turtles, sharks, and other fish are active at night.

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