Boat Charter in British Virgin Islands

Why rent a boat on holiday in British Virgin Islands?

Best Time to Visit the BVI

The British Virgin Islands enjoy warm weather year-round, but there are optimal times for a charter:

Peak Season (December – April)

This is the dry season and considered the best time for a BVI sailing escape . Expect daily highs around 80°F (27°C) with low humidity and very little rain – perfect for beach hopping and starry nights. The winds are steady but gentle, ideal for smooth sailing. During these months the islands buzz with activity: holiday travelers in December, regatta events like the BVI Spring Regatta in late March , and many families around spring break. It’s wise to book well ahead for peak season charters, as boats and crews are in high demand. Prices are highest now, but the weather and festivities are unparalleled.

(Insider tip: If you plan to visit during Christmas/New Year’s or Spring Break, secure your charter many months in advance. These weeks sell out first for luxury boats.)

Shoulder Months (November and May)

Considered the shoulder of peak season, late November and May can be fantastic times to visit. You’ll likely find fewer crowds and slightly lower rates while still enjoying great weather . In late November, the rainy season has just ended but the holiday rush hasn’t begun – a sweet spot for tranquil conditions. Similarly, May is post-Easter so many tourists have left, yet conditions remain largely dry and sunny. Temperatures in shoulder months are mid-80s°F (around 29°C) and water is warm. 

(Insider tip: Visiting in early November or May means open moorings at popular spots like White Bay or The Baths, letting you enjoy them with a more intimate feel. Plus, some charter companies or crews offer last-minute discounts or added amenities in these months.)

Off-Season (June – October)

These are the wettest months and the official hurricane season in the Caribbean (with most storms historically between August and October) . Travel is still very possible – many crews relocate or take off during peak hurricane months, but others remain and offer charters at significantly reduced prices. June and July can actually be lovely: warm days (upper 80s°F/30°C), calmer seas, and only occasional showers. In fact, July has a fun event called “Christmas in July” where boaters (especially from Puerto Rico) flock to the BVI for a week of parties. However, late summer into fall carries risk of tropical storms – travel insurance is a must, and itineraries might need to be flexible. If you don’t mind the heat and some humidity, you’ll enjoy empty anchorages and a very relaxed vibe. 

(Insider tip: Some restaurants and resorts close in off-season, but your crew will ensure you’re well-fed on board. The plus side is you might have places like Anegada’s beaches entirely to yourself. Just stay aware of weather forecasts.)

Bottom line: December through April is picture-perfect for a luxury charter in the BVI . If you seek a balance of good weather and quieter islands, try late November or May. And if you’re an adventure-seeker looking for deals, the summer can work – just plan smartly around the weather.

Entry Requirements and Travel Details

Entering the British Virgin Islands is straightforward, but it pays to know a few key details:

Passport & Visa

A valid passport is required for all visitors entering the BVI, including U.S. citizens. Ensure your passport has validity beyond your travel dates (6 months recommended). Visas are generally not required for tourist stays under 30 days for US, Canadian, EU, UK, and many other nationalities – the BVI grants a entry stamp on arrival. However, travelers from some countries may require a BVI visa or a UK visa (since the BVI is a British Overseas Territory). It’s best to check the latest visa requirements with a BVI tourist office or your embassy well before traveling.

Arrival by Air or Sea

If you’re flying in, you’ll land at Beef Island’s Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Tortola. Many guests from North America route via San Juan, Puerto Rico, or St. Thomas, USVI. From the airport, Boatcrowd can arrange a private car or you can take a taxi to the marina (Road Town is about 30-40 minutes drive). If you’re coming via St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands), you can take a ferry or arrange a private water transfer directly to Tortola or other islands (like a direct drop at Jost or Virgin Gorda if convenient). Remember, if you transit through the USVI, you’ll go through US customs/immigration there, then BVI entry on arrival by ferry/boat.

Customs & Immigration

Upon arrival in the BVI, you will fill out a short immigration form and clear customs. If your charter starts in Tortola, the crew or a Boatcrowd representative often assists with this process. For charters starting elsewhere (e.g., if a rendezvous in Virgin Gorda or a custom start), the captain will handle clearing the boat in with your passports. If you plan to visit the USVI during your BVI charter (some do a day trip to St. John, for example), your crew will manage the check-out/in procedures, but bring along proof of vaccination or test if any USVI rules apply, and don’t forget passports.

BVI Fees

The territory imposes certain fees: a Cruising Tax (usually around $6 per person per day), and an Environmental & Tourism Levy (approximately $10 per person, one-time) paid on arrival. Often these are included in your charter package or handled by the broker/crew, but it’s good to have some cash for such fees. Upon departure, if flying out of Beef Island, there is a departure tax (around $20 per person at the airport, typically included in your ticket; $20 if departing by ferry). These nominal fees contribute to maintaining the beautiful parks and amenities.

Health & Safety

Currently (as of 2025), there are no specific health requirements like vaccines or tests to enter the BVI related to Covid-19 – the islands have relaxed earlier restrictions. It’s wise to be up to date on routine vaccinations when traveling internationally. The BVI are generally very safe, with low crime especially in tourist areas. Petty theft can happen, so normal precautions (don’t leave valuables unattended on the beach or dinghy) apply. On your crewed boat, the crew will ensure the vessel is secure. If you plan to dive, bringing proof of dive certification is helpful (or you can do resort courses via dive operators). Travel insurance that covers medical evacuation and trip interruption is recommended for any international trip – it can give peace of mind, especially during hurricane season.

Connectivity & Currency

English is the official language of the BVI, so communication is easy. The local currency is the US Dollar (USD), which simplifies things for American travelers. Credit cards are widely accepted at marinas, restaurants, and shops in the main islands (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost, etc.). Carry some cash for smaller beach bars or vendor stalls, and for tips. ATMs are available in Road Town and Spanish Town (VG), but not on tiny islands, so withdraw in advance. Cell phone coverage is decent around populated islands (you’ll catch signals from either BVI or USVI towers). Discuss with your provider about an international roaming plan. Your boat’s Wi-Fi will allow basic connectivity for emails and messaging when in range, though don’t expect to be streaming HD movies in remote anchorages.

(Insider tip: When island hopping, you might pick up U.S. cell signals in some areas (like near Jost Van Dyke from St. John towers). Be cautious to avoid unintended roaming charges. Many travelers keep phones on airplane mode and use Wi-Fi. Better yet, disconnect and savor the digital detox – your out-of-office message is on, and the only “urgent” matter is whether to snorkel or paddleboard next!)

Onboard Experience with Crew

One of the biggest perks of a luxury crewed boat charter is the crew itself. Understanding their role and how to interact will enhance your trip:

Professional Captain

Your captain is not just an expert sailor but also your guide and often a walking encyclopedia of local knowledge. They handle navigation, route planning, and the boats’s operation ensuring safety and comfort. Discuss your interests with the captain early – are you keen on secluded beaches? High-energy watersports? Fine dining ashore? They will tailor the journey accordingly. Trust their recommendations; captains know the “secret spots” and the day-to-day nuances (like which bay will be calmest if a swell is coming, or which night a certain beach bar has live music). Feel free to ask questions or even to learn some sailing basics – many captains love to share and might even let you take the helm under guidance if you’re interested.

Personal Chef (and Crew)

Alongside the captain, a private chef (often doubling as first mate or hostess on catamarans with 2 crew) will cater to your culinary desires. Before your charter, Boatcrowd will likely gather your food and beverage preferences – from favorite wines to dietary restrictions. The chef will create menus accordingly, sourcing fresh local ingredients (yes, expect plenty of tropical fruits and fresh seafood!). On a given day, you might have a breakfast of coconut French toast with pineapple syrup, a light lunch of grilled fish tacos and mango salsa, and a gourmet dinner of lobster Thermidor – all customized to your taste. 

Gourmet meals and an open bar are part of the all-inclusive service, so indulge! The chef can also adjust meal times to your schedule (want a sunrise breakfast before a long sail, or a late brunch after a party night – no problem). Tip: communicate daily if you have any cravings or if yesterday’s lobster was too much, etc. They truly aim to please. Larger catamarans (say 60ft+) might come with a third crew member (stewardess) who assists with service and housekeeping, ensuring your cabin is tidy, drinks are refilled, and you always have fresh towels.

All-Inclusive Pampering

With crewed charters, almost everything is included – from your meals, snacks, standard beverages, to water toys and onboard amenities . Your crew will even mix up signature cocktails and remember how you take your morning coffee. They handle all the boat logistics: refueling, provisioning, dealing with customs clearances, etc., usually while you’re out having fun. Daily housekeeping is provided; you’ll find your bed made and common areas always clean (though it’s courteous to hang up your own wet swimsuits and keep your personal space reasonably neat). Most crew will do turndown service, and some surprise touches like sunset canapés or a special cake if there’s a birthday/anniversary on board. It truly feels like a private floating hotel with ultra-attentive staff.

Interaction and Privacy

Crewed boats are intimate environments, and the crew are experts at reading the social dynamic. They will be around when needed but also give you space as desired. If you’re a chatty group that loves hearing local stories, you’ll find the crew joining in with tales and laughter during dinners. If you’re a couple seeking solitude, they’ll be more discreet, almost invisible except when serving. Don’t hesitate to communicate – if you want a private dinner with just your family on deck one night, or conversely, if you’d like the crew to join an evening card game, just say so. They often become part of the family by week’s end, striking that perfect balance of warm hospitality and professional distance as appropriate.

Gratuity

While not “required,” it is customary to tip the crew at the end of a charter for excellent service – usually 15-20% of the charter fee is a guideline in the Caribbean, given in cash or as preferred. The crew works hard to make everything seamless, often behind the scenes (imagine them quietly cleaning up after you retire for the night, or the captain doing engine checks at dawn). A gratuity is a gracious way to thank them. Often the captain will split any tip among the team. Again, it’s at your discretion based on satisfaction, but planning for this in your budget is wise.

(Insider tip: Start a group chat or use a whiteboard on board for requests – e.g., if you want a sunrise yoga session on deck, or need extra towels, etc. The crew is there to facilitate even the little things. And if you particularly enjoy a dish the chef makes, let them know – they might share the recipe or even show you how it’s prepared in the galley one day.)

Dining and Indulgences (Onboard and Ashore)

One of the highlights of a crewed charter is the gastronomic adventure. You’ll enjoy the best of both worlds: gourmet dining on your boat and the chance to sample local island cuisine when you feel like venturing out.

Gourmet Meals Onboard

Every day on the boat is a culinary delight. Your personal chef crafts three bountiful meals a day, tailored to your preferences. Expect fresh tropical fruit platters, creative salads, and seafood caught that very day (many captains are happy to help you fish off the boat – imagine eating a tuna you reeled in yourself, transformed into sashimi by the chef!). The chef will also incorporate local flavors – perhaps johnny cakes (local fried bread) for breakfast, or callaloo soup as a starter, and of course key lime pie or coconut tarts for dessert. 

Menus are discussed in advance, but remain flexible if, say, you suddenly crave a particular dish. All the while, the boat’s open bar is at your disposal: sip chilled rosé or a crisp champagne at sunset, enjoy Caribbean rum cocktails whenever the mood strikes, or stick to green juices and mocktails if wellness is your aim. The level of customization is extraordinary – from keto or vegan menus to a birthday cake and decorations if you’re celebrating. All food allergies and dietary needs are meticulously noted by the crew, so you can relax and enjoy with no worries.

Dining Ashore

While it’s tempting to eat every meal in the comfort of your boat, the BVI boasts some not-to-be-missed restaurants and beach bars. Your itinerary will likely include a few evenings where dining ashore adds to the experience. For instance, on Virgin Gorda, a dinner at CocoMaya (an elegant beachfront restaurant) offers Asian-Caribbean fusion tapas in a swanky atmosphere – imagine couches on the sand, fire pits, and creative cocktails (the crew can arrange a reservation). On Anegada, as mentioned, the lobster shacks on the beach are a must for the freshest lobster under the stars. Jost Van Dyke’s Foxy’s or Corsairs serve up hearty BBQ or seafood with a side of live music and local character. 

Norman Island’s Pirate’s Bight is great for a casual lunch between snorkels. And many islands have quaint shore-side pubs where you can savor conch fritters, roti, or fish & chips (a nod to the British heritage) with a Painkiller in hand. These outings let you experience local culture and vibe. The crew handles all dinghy transport; they’ll often dine separately (unless you invite them) or return to the boat while you’re eating, then come fetch you – so you have privacy ashore too.

Drinks and Nightlife 

Onboard, your bar is stocked as per your preference sheet – whether that’s a case of your favorite vintage Bordeaux or the ingredients for the perfect gin martini. Crews on luxury charters often include a talented bartender or the chef doubles as mixologist, shaking and stirring to your delight. Ashore, the nightlife is low-key but enjoyable. Sip the original Painkiller at Soggy Dollar, try a Bushwacker (rum & chocolate cocktail) at One Love, sample microbrews at Cooper Island’s brewery, or taste the famed Pusser’s Rum at their various outposts (and maybe buy a bottle of Pusser’s to take home – it’s a BVI souvenir staple). For wine connoisseurs, many upscale restaurants have decent cellars given the remote location, and the boat can be provisioned with anything exceptional you request. It’s a vacation – indulgence is encouraged! But for those mindful of health, the chef can equally do detox juices, fresh coconut water, and light, spa-like cuisine. Just say the word.

(Insider tip: If you have a special occasion, let the crew know. They often go above and beyond – think private beach dinners with tiki torches, or a surprise picnic on a deserted island. And do try a bit of everything locally – Johnny cakes at a tiny bakery, the locally made rum, or the famous Anegada lobster. These tastes will create lasting memories attached to each island.)

Activities and Water Toys

A crewed boat charter in the BVI can be as active or as relaxed as you desire. Beyond island exploring and beach lounging, here are some activities to take advantage of:

Snorkeling & Diving

The BVI is a snorkeler’s dream. Your boat carries snorkel gear for all guests – masks, fins, snorkels – so whenever you anchor by a reef, you can jump in and explore. Don’t miss snorkeling at The Indians (colorful coral gardens), around the Caves at Norman, the mangroves at Hurricane Hole (if you take a trip to St. John USVI), or the reefs off Anegada. Each spot offers different marine life: expect to see friendly sergeant-major fish, parrotfish, maybe a shy octopus or a graceful ray. For certified SCUBA divers, many crewed boats can arrange rendezvous dives : a local dive company will pick you up from the boat and take you to sites like the RMS Rhone wreck or others. Some larger catamarans even have dive instructors as crew and gear onboard – if that’s important, Boatcrowd can match you with such a boat. Not a certified diver but curious? The crew can set up a resort course or guided intro dive so you don’t miss out on the underwater wonders.

Watersports Galore

Most luxury boats are equipped with an array of water toys. Common toys include stand-up paddleboards (great for a calm morning paddle in a quiet bay), kayaks (to explore shorelines and hidden coves), tubing or kneeboarding gear for adrenaline-pumping rides behind the dinghy, and increasingly, high-end boats carry trendy toys like Seabobs (underwater scooters) or even e-foil surfboards. You can usually also find floating mats or inflatable platforms – set them out and you have a private floating sunbed or splash pad for kids. 

Some boats offer fishing gear – drop a line while sailing or ask the crew to troll a line during crossings (you might catch a mahi or tuna!). Note: the BVI requires a fishing license for guests if fishing (which can be obtained in advance or by the crew on your behalf). If you fancy windsurfing or kiteboarding, inquire ahead – certain areas like North Sound or Anegada are kiting meccas and gear or instructors can be arranged. Basically, you’ll never be bored – unless you want to be, in which case a hammock and a book it is!

Onshore Adventures

Don’t underestimate the fun on land. Each island has unique activities. You can hike the scenic trail at Sage Mountain National Park on Tortola (a moderate hike through rainforest with panoramic lookouts). On Virgin Gorda, a short hike up to the summit of Gorda Peak yields incredible views and the chance to spot endemic lizards. Jost Van Dyke’s east end has the Bubbly Pool (a short nature walk to a natural wave-fed pool). If you’re a history buff, explore the Copper Mine ruins on Virgin Gorda or the old sugar mill at Mount Healthy, Tortola. 

Many guests enjoy a casual island tour by car – your crew can hire a driver/vehicle to take you around Tortola or Virgin Gorda: see local villages, visit casual art galleries, sample roadside rotis or pate (savory pastries) and get a sense of daily life beyond the tourist spots. For a cultural fix, if timing aligns, partake in events like the BVI Emancipation Festival (late July/early August) which brings music, food, and parades – a true local celebration.

Relaxation & Wellness

Of course, this is a holiday, and relaxation is an activity too! Most catamarans have broad bow nets perfect for napping with the waves lapping below. The crew can arrange onboard massages – picture a massage therapist coming to give you a massage on the flybridge with a sea breeze. Or do yoga at sunrise on the bow (some crews include a yoga instructor or can bring one aboard in certain anchorages). Reading a novel in the shade of the aft deck, sunbathing with ocean-cooled mists, or simply unplugging from the world are all encouraged. The lack of a fixed schedule is liberating – if you feel like sleeping in, do it; if a spontaneous swim at midnight calls to you, the water’s warm and your crew can safely accommodate night swims (the bioluminescence in the water can be magical on moonless nights).

(Insider tip: Ask your captain about feeding the fish or tarpon – many anchorages like Saba Rock have scheduled feeding where huge fish gather, which is a simple yet thrilling sight, especially for kids. And for a memorable group activity, have a “boat Olympics” – use the water toys for friendly competition: paddleboard races, dinghy-tow tubing contests, etc. The crew often loves to referee and join the fun, making your trip truly interactive and playful.)

Your BVI boat charter navigation through paradise begins now. Your dream boat stands ready while the water remains warm and the wind blows favourably. Boatcrowd’s boat rental experts will help you start designing your customized BVI boat charter today. Your luxurious island-hopping paradise awaits booking while you sail the British Virgin Islands in style to create an unforgettable maritime adventure. Bon voyage!