BVI Yacht Charter Guide
Everything you need to choose and book a charter yacht in the British Virgin Islands — from picking a yacht type to booking with a local charter company.
Choosing a yacht type
- Sailing catamaran charters
Sailing catamarans are the most popular charter yachts in the British Virgin Islands. Two hulls mean a stable, level ride, generous deck space, a big cockpit for dining and a shallow draft for tucking into anchorages like The Bight, White Bay and Cane Garden Bay.
- Sailing monohull charters
For sailors who want to feel the boat heel and point high into the trade winds, a monohull is hard to beat. The Sir Francis Drake Channel offers steady winds and short hops between islands, perfect for monohull sailing.
- Power catamaran charters
Power catamarans combine the space and stability of a sailing cat with the speed of a motor yacht. They make easy work of longer runs to Anegada or a fast hop across to Virgin Gorda, leaving more time at anchor.
- Power monohull charters
Motor yachts and power monohulls offer comfort and speed for exploring the BVI in style, from day trips to week-long crewed charters with a captain and chef.
How booking works
Most BVI yachts are managed by local charter companies. BVI Charter Search gathers their listings into one searchable grid so you can compare yacht type, size and weekly rate. When you find a yacht you like, the “View & book” button takes you to the charter company's own page, where you check availability, book and pay directly. Watch the special offers page for current deals.
Not sure which yacht suits your trip? See our yacht match guide for honeymoons, groups, families and more.
Frequently asked questions
Which type of yacht is best for a BVI charter?
Sailing catamarans are the most popular: stable, spacious and easy to anchor. Monohulls suit sailors who want a classic sailing feel, power catamarans and monohulls cover more ground faster, and bareboat yachts let experienced sailors skipper themselves.
When is the best time to charter a yacht in the BVI?
December to April brings steady trade winds, dry weather and the highest rates. May, June and November offer better value. Hurricane season runs June to November, so consider travel insurance.
How far ahead should I book?
For Christmas, New Year and Easter, many yachts book up six to twelve months ahead. Outside peak season a few months is usually enough.
What is the difference between bareboat and crewed?
On a bareboat charter you skipper the yacht yourself and need sailing experience. On a crewed charter a captain (and often a chef) runs the yacht for you. Many charter companies also offer a skipper for part of the week.
How do I get to the BVI?
Most visitors fly to Beef Island (Tortola) via Puerto Rico, Antigua or St. Maarten, or fly to St. Thomas and take a ferry. Most charter bases are on Tortola, a short taxi ride from the airport or ferry dock.
What is not included in the weekly rate?
Usually provisioning, fuel, mooring balls, BVI cruising permits and national park fees, plus any crew gratuity. Ask the charter company for a full list before you book.
What currency is used in the BVI?
The US dollar is the official currency, and every rate on this site is shown per week in USD.
Can I book through BVI Charter Search?
No. We're a directory, not a booking engine. Each yacht links to the local charter company that manages it, and you book and pay with that charter company directly.