Catamaran Charter St Barts – The Ultimate Luxury Yacht Adventure
Why Choose a Luxury Catamaran Charter in St Barts?
St. Barts (Saint Barthélemy) is synonymous with luxury and breathtaking Caribbean beauty – and there’s no better way to experience it than by private catamaran. A luxury catamaran charter in St Barts offers the perfect blend of comfort and adventure, especially for families and discerning travelers. Catamarans are a popular choice in the Caribbean for their extra space, stability, and smooth sailing. With their wide, open decks and spacious interiors, modern catamarans provide ample room to relax, play, and entertain, all while cruising between picturesque islands. The twin-hull design also means a steadier ride (great for first-time charterers or kids) and a shallow draft – allowing your captain to anchor closer to pristine beaches and secret coves that larger vessels can’t reach. In short, a St. Barts catamaran charter delivers all the indulgences of a luxury catamaran vacation plus a family-friendly, stable platform for exploration and relaxation on the water.
Another reason travelers choose a catamaran charter St Barts is the sheer variety of experiences it unlocks, even on shorter trips. St. Barts sits in the heart of the Leeward Islands, meaning a host of dreamy destinations are within easy reach on 3-, 5-, or 7-day itineraries. Even with just a long weekend (3 nights), you can explore multiple idyllic anchorages around St. Barts – from the glamorous harbor of Gustavia to secluded bays only accessible by boat – all at a leisurely pace without venturing too far. Give yourself 5 days, and you could broaden your horizons to include a taste of neighboring St. Martin’s French-Dutch charm, as the island lies only about 15 nautical miles from St. Barts (a few hours’ sail). And on a full 7-day luxury catamaran charter St Barts adventure, why not hop over to Anguilla’s serene shores as well? With a week at your disposal, it’s common to craft a multi-island itinerary – St. Barts, St. Martin, and Anguilla – giving you a rich sampling of the Caribbean’s finest locales in one journey. Whether you’re after a quick getaway or an extended island-hopping odyssey, a catamaran charter grants you the freedom to chart an unforgettable course through this tropical paradise. (Tip: Boatcrowd’s global fleet offers a range of catamarans to suit every group size and style. From intimate 40-foot sailing catamarans to 70-foot crewed luxury catamarans, you can find the perfect vessel for your St. Barts adventure – start planning now to secure the yacht of your dreams.)
Best Season for Catamaran Charter in St Barts
Winter: The period from November through April is broadly the high season for yachting in St. Barts, and it’s not hard to see why. During these winter months, the island enjoys idyllic weather – think warm days around 80°F (27°C), low humidity, gentle seas, and steady trade winds perfect for smooth sailing. It’s a welcome escape for those from colder climates, and the atmosphere in St. Barts is nothing short of electric. The peak hits in late December and New Year’s, when Gustavia’s harbor fills with gleaming superyachts and the island sparkles with galas, beach parties, and fireworks. In fact, New Year’s Eve in St. Barts has been likened to a yachting-world Davos summit – a who’s who of the wealthy and famous converging to celebrate in style. By March and April, the excitement continues with prestigious sailing events like the St. Barths Bucket Regatta drawing sailing enthusiasts from around the globe. In short, a winter catamaran charter in St Barts promises perfect cruising weather, a bustling social scene, and the chance to rub shoulders with the elite – all amid the island’s natural beauty at its peak.
Summer: The summer season (roughly June through September) is considered off-peak in St. Barts for catamaran charters, but it comes with its own special appeals. These months fall within the Caribbean hurricane season, so you can expect hotter temperatures, higher humidity, and an increased chance of rain or tropical storms. As a result, the tourist crowds thin out and the island’s pace slows to a relaxed, laid-back groove. Many local businesses take a late-summer break (some boutiques and restaurants temporarily close in August/September), but those that remain open cater to a trickle of visitors who essentially have the island to themselves. For adventurous souls willing to trade the winter buzz for solitude, a summer catamaran rental St Barts can be blissful: picture having tranquil beaches and sheltered bays virtually all to yourself, like a private island experience. Charter rates are often more attractive in the off-season too, offering better value for indulging in luxury. Do keep in mind the weather variability – you’ll want to plan with a bit of flexibility in case a storm system rolls through. The good news is that modern yachts are well-equipped with advanced weather communications and stabilizers, and captains can adjust the itinerary to avoid any brewing storms. For many, a summer St. Barts charter is a chance to see a quieter, more intimate side of the island’s beauty – with golden sunsets, warm seas, and total tranquility at every anchorage. (Side note: For the perfect balance, consider late spring (April–June) or early fall (October–early November) when you get a mix of good weather and fewer crowds – truly the best of both worlds.)
One Week Catamaran Charter St Barts – Most Popular Sailing Holiday Itinerary
Imagine a week-long voyage that combines the glamour of St. Barts, the cultural fusion of St. Martin, and the untouched tranquility of Anguilla – all in one epic itinerary. Beginning and ending in Gustavia, St. Barts’ charming capital, this sample 7-day catamaran charter St Barts itinerary is crafted to delight both first-time charterers and seasoned catamaran guests. From snorkeling with turtles in secluded coves to dining in chic seaside towns, each day brings a new adventure. Below, we outline a most popular sailing holiday itinerary for one magical week. (Of course, Boatcrowd’s experts can tailor every detail – so feel free to inquire now and customize the route to your preferences.)
Day 1: Gustavia to Colombier Bay (St. Barts)
Your journey begins in Gustavia, the main port of St. Barts, where you board your private catamaran around midday. After meeting your friendly crew and settling into your luxurious floating villa, set sail along St. Barts’ scenic western coast. It’s a short and gentle cruise (under an hour) to your first anchorage: Colombier Bay, an unspoiled cove at the island’s northwestern tip. Colombier (often called “Rockefeller’s Beach” after its former private owner) is only reachable by boat or a hiking trail, ensuring a serene atmosphere. Upon arrival, you’re greeted by turquoise waters and a crescent of powdery sand backed by green hills – the perfect Caribbean postcard. Spend the afternoon exactly as you please: snorkeling along the rocky shallows (you might spot starfish, friendly sea turtles, and colorful reef fish gliding below), or taking a quick tender ride ashore to stroll the deserted beach. The stability of your catamaran will be evident as you move about – even novice sailors in your family will feel comfortable on deck while at anchor. As sunset approaches, indulge in your first gourmet meal on board. With a private chef at your disposal, perhaps dine on freshly caught mahi-mahi with a chilled rosé, all while watching the sky blaze orange and pink over Colombier’s cliffs. That evening, you’ll sleep at anchor in Colombier Bay, lulled by gentle waves and the soft Caribbean breeze – a blissful start to your week at sea.
Day 2: St. Barts to St. Martin – Tintamarre Island and Grand Case
Wake up to the aroma of breakfast and a stunning view of Colombier’s blue bay. This morning offers a bit of free time – you might enjoy a quick swim or paddleboard session in the calm waters before weighing anchor. By mid-morning, you’ll set a course northwest for St. Martin, the next island on your itinerary (and actually two countries in one: French “Saint-Martin” to the north and Dutch “Sint Maarten” to the south). The voyage from St. Barts to St. Martin is a comfortable few hours. As you approach Tintamarre Island off St. Martin’s northeastern coast, the crew drops anchor for an idyllic lunchtime stop. Tintamarre is a small, uninhabited island (part of a marine reserve) known for its long, deserted beach and shallow reefs just offshore. Dive in for a refreshing snorkel – the clear waters here are home to reef fish and sometimes even sea turtles. Or explore Tintamarre’s beach and perhaps hunt for a bit of the natural clay mud that visitors famously slather on as a skin refresher. After lunch on the aft deck (perhaps a French-Creole inspired meal prepared by your chef), it’s a short hop over to the mainland of St. Martin, arriving on the French side by late afternoon.
This evening’s destination is Grand Case, a picturesque bay on St. Martin’s northwestern shore. Grand Case is often called the “gourmet capital” of the island, and you’ll soon see why. Anchor just off its beach, enjoying a view of pastel-colored Creole houses and lush hills. As dusk falls, you have a tough decision (the best kind): head ashore to dine at one of Grand Case’s renowned restaurants or savor another private dinner aboard with the lights of the village twinkling around you. St. Martin’s French side is famed for its cuisine – from fine dining establishments to casual beachside lolos grilling fresh lobster – so you can’t go wrong either way. Perhaps tonight you’ll taste dishes like codfish fritters, foie gras, or tropical spiced ribs, paired with a good French wine. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll down Grand Case’s main boulevard (if you went ashore) or simply relax on the yacht’s trampoline under a canopy of stars. The gentle rocking at anchor and the distant sound of soft zouk music from the shore will soothe you to sleep, as you look forward to another day in paradise.
Day 3: St. Martin (French & Dutch Sides) to Anguilla
This morning, awaken to the sun peeking over the green hills of St. Martin. You’ve now experienced a taste of French-Caribbean flair; next, it’s off to the British-influenced tranquility of Anguilla. But first, a little more of St. Martin’s charm: enjoy a quick breakfast of croissants and local guava jam (the French know how to do breakfast right) and perhaps a swim or beachcombing session. If it’s market day, your crew can ferry you to shore at Marigot (St. Martin’s French capital, just a short sail south) to peruse the open-air market brimming with spices, tropical fruits, and island crafts. By late morning, it’s time to lift anchor and sail west toward Anguilla, the next island gem on this itinerary.
The sail from St. Martin to Anguilla is pleasantly short – roughly 1 to 2 hours across gentle seas. As Anguilla’s low-lying outline comes into view, you’ll notice the contrast from mountainous St. Martin; Anguilla is flat, ringed by shimmering white beaches and turquoise shallows. You’ll enter at Road Bay, the main port of entry and one of the island’s loveliest anchorages. Road Bay is a wide, sheltered bay with a long stretch of sugar-white sand (the village of Sandy Ground lines the shore) and a few colorful beach bars and eateries dotting the sand. After your captain helps take care of customs formalities, it’s time to soak up Anguilla’s easy-going vibe. The motto here is “laid-back and unpretentious,” and you’ll feel it immediately. Spend the afternoon as active or relaxed as you wish. You could don a mask and fins for snorkeling straight from the catamaran – the water is clear and calm, and you might see little reef fish around the bay. Or head ashore to feel the powdery sand between your toes and grab a cold drink at a beach shack. A local favorite is Johnno’s Beach Bar, famous for its fresh seafood and live jazz music on the weekends – if you’re lucky to be here on a Sunday afternoon, you might catch some soulful tunes. For a deeper island experience, consider hiring a taxi or rental jeep for a quick island tour: Anguilla’s charm lies in its tiny villages (don’t blink or you’ll miss The Valley, the capital!), salt ponds with herons and egrets, and dozens of postcard-perfect beaches down every side road. By sunset, you’ll be back on board (if you went exploring), just in time to watch the sky turn gold over Road Bay. This is the kind of anchorage where the horizon seems endless and the evening light is pure magic. Enjoy dinner on deck – perhaps a casual grill tonight, in the laid-back Anguillan spirit – or venture ashore for a barefoot dinner at a beach restaurant. Either way, the night is mellow and magnificent. With minimal development around, the stars shine bright. You’ll drift off to sleep to the sound of gentle waves, utterly at peace after a day of Anguilla’s warm welcome.
Day 4: Anguilla’s Hidden Cays and Crocus Bay
Awake in tranquil Road Bay and savor a coffee with a view of one of the northern Caribbean’s nicest anchorages. Today is dedicated to exploring Anguilla’s natural playground – its reef-fringed islets and secluded bays that few tourists ever see. After a hearty breakfast, your captain charts a course for the Prickly Pear Cays, a pair of uninhabited islands a few miles offshore. As you cruise northward, keep an eye out for dolphins that occasionally frolic in the wake. By mid-morning, you arrive at Prickly Pear, greeted by a vision of dazzling white sand and unreal clear water. Here, coral reefs teem with tropical fish and colorful sea fans, making it a fantastic spot for snorkeling. Jump in and discover an underwater garden – you might glide above swaying purple sea fans, spot parrotfish nibbling at algae, and if you’re lucky, see an eagle ray gliding by. On shore, one of the cays even has a rustic beach bar that springs to life during the day, so you can sip a fresh coconut or rum punch on a deserted island – a true castaway fantasy. If time and weather allow, the crew can also take you by tender to nearby Sandy Island – literally a tiny spit of sand with a few palm trees and a thatched-roof bar. It’s the ultimate Robinson Crusoe photo op, and the snorkeling is excellent here as well.
By afternoon, continue your leisurely sail around Anguilla’s northern coast to reach Crocus Bay. This peaceful bay, framed by cliffs and dotted with caves, offers another slice of paradise for the evening. Crocus Bay’s beach is pristine and typically uncrowded; feel free to swim to shore or take the dinghy for a stroll on the soft sand. Just south of here is Little Bay, a marine reserve where moorings are available by day – if you arrive early, a quick detour to Little Bay can reward you with yet more incredible snorkeling and a chance to feed the resident fish (they’re so friendly, they’ll eat from your hands!). Back in Crocus Bay at sunset, the scene is sublime. The limestone cliffs glow in the fading light, and pelicans dive for their dinner in the placid bay. Your crew might arrange a special sundowner treat: how about cocktails and hors d’oeuvres served aboard a floating mat or set up as a picnic on the beach? As you sip a mango mojito and reflect on the day’s adventures, you’ll feel a world away from everyday life. Dinner tonight could be on board – a gourmet barbecue of local crayfish (a type of spiny lobster) perhaps – or, if you’re in the mood to mingle, there’s an upscale restaurant tucked at one end of the bay (reachable by tender) where you can dine under the stars. The night in Crocus Bay is wonderfully quiet and dark – perfect for stargazing. With minimal light pollution, you can see the Milky Way strewn across the sky. It’s just you, your loved ones, and the hush of waves in this secret corner of the Caribbean.
Day 5: Anguilla to St. Martin’s Dutch Side (Simpson Bay & Maho)
This morning, enjoy a last swim in Anguilla’s calm turquoise waters – perhaps a refreshing dip right off the catamaran before breakfast. Then it anchors up as you bid farewell to laid-back Anguilla and set sail back towards the bustle of St. Martin. By now you’ve experienced St. Martin’s quiet side; today, get ready for its lively alter ego. A pleasant downwind sail brings you to Simpson Bay, on the Dutch side of St. Maarten, by around midday. Simpson Bay is a large, lagoon-like bay that serves as the island’s yachting hub, and it’s famous for its long crescent beach and vibrant atmosphere. After days of tranquil coves, the sights of civilization are actually exciting – you’ll see planes taking off and landing in the distance, boats of all sizes zipping about, and a waterfront lined with beach clubs and restaurants. You can choose to anchor outside the bay or pass through the drawbridge into the Simpson Bay Lagoon (one of the largest inland lagoons in the Caribbean) to dock at a marina. Either way, the afternoon is yours to enjoy the many attractions of Dutch St. Maarten.
A must-do here is a visit to Maho Beach, located at the western end of Simpson Bay near the airport. Your captain can arrange a short dinghy ride or taxi to Maho, where you’ll experience the famous thrill of jumbo jets soaring just overhead as they land – the beach is literally at the runway’s edge, offering an adrenaline-pumping (and very Instagram-worthy) vantage point. Grab a burger or drink at the beach bar and join the crowd in cheering as each plane comes in astonishingly low. It’s an only-in-St. Maarten experience! If planes aren’t your thing, fear not – Simpson Bay offers plenty more. You could try your luck at a casino, as the Dutch side is known for its gaming and nightlife, or wander the nearby streets for duty-free shopping (from jewelry to electronics, St. Maarten’s stores often have good deals). Water sports are also on tap: maybe take a jetski for a spin or go parasailing over the bay. By evening, the choices for entertainment abound. Simpson Bay boasts everything from casual beach BBQ joints to upscale fusion restaurants and nightclubs. Perhaps start with sunset cocktails at a chic lounge, then enjoy a farewell dinner ashore. Being your last night outside of St. Barts, some guests like to make it a fun one – you could hit the Casino Royale for some James Bond-esque excitement or dance to live music at a beachfront bar. The beauty of a charter is you set the pace: it can be a lively night out on the town or a quiet dinner and movie night in the comfort of your yacht’s salon. Either way, you’ll feel the contrast of St. Maarten’s energetic spirit against the previous days of solitude – a well-rounded Caribbean experience. Return to the catamaran whenever you’re ready (everything in Simpson Bay is a short walk or dinghy ride away) and enjoy the comfort of your suite. As you drift to sleep, you might still hear distant music or laughter from shore, mingling with the gentle lap of water against the hull – the sounds of an island alive with la joie de vivre.
Day 6: St. Martin to St. Barts – Île Fourchue and Back to Gustavia
After an exciting night, Day 6 offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation as you make your way back to where it all began: St. Barts. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast on board in Simpson Bay – perhaps fresh tropical fruits and Dutch pastries picked up in town – while your luxury catamaran prepares to get underway. By mid-morning, you’ll cruise out of Simpson Bay, waving goodbye to St. Martin. En route to St. Barts, your captain will make a stop at Île Fourchue, a hidden gem of an islet roughly halfway between St. Martin and St. Barts. Île Fourchue (also known as Fork Island) is an uninhabited, crescent-shaped island that lies within the St. Barts marine reserve. Arriving there feels like discovering a secret – the bay is horseshoe-shaped with rocky peaks surrounding it, and the only residents are a few wild goats on shore. The protected anchorage is calm and crystal-clear, making it an ideal lunch spot. Dive into the inviting water for one more stellar snorkeling session. Fourchue’s reefs are healthy and vibrant; you’ll likely spot swaying fan corals, schools of sergeant majors and blue tangs flitting about, and perhaps a graceful ray or even a sleepy nurse shark resting on the sand (don’t worry, they’re harmless). If you’re feeling active, a short hike up the hills of Île Fourchue offers a 360° panorama of the surrounding sea – you can see St. Barts and St. Martin in the distance, with your catamaran bobbing in the azure bay below. Back on board, enjoy a laid-back deck lunch – after the indulgences of St. Maarten, a fresh salad and grilled fish with a cold Planteur’s punch might hit the spot, or whatever your personal chef recommends.
By early-to-mid afternoon, it’s time for the final leg: the sail back to Gustavia, St. Barts. As the red roofs of Gustavia and the island’s green hills come into view, you’ll feel a mix of excitement and a tinge of nostalgia – it’s amazing how attached one can get to these islands in just a few days. You’ll glide into Gustavia’s harbor in the late afternoon, where you began a week ago. Take in the scene: gleaming yachts at anchor, luxury villas on the hillsides, and the iconic lighthouse marking the port entrance. For your last evening, you have the best of St. Barts at your fingertips. Many guests love to cap off the charter with a special night out in Gustavia. You could reserve a table at one of the island’s top restaurants – perhaps the elegant Bonito with its panoramic harbor views or a beach-chic spot like Shellona on Shell Beach – to toast the week’s adventures in style. If it’s Sunday, the famous Nikki Beach club might be hosting its lively afternoon party, or maybe you’re in town during one of St. Barts’ seasonal festivals or live music nights – there’s often something happening. On the other hand, if you crave a quieter celebration, your crew can arrange a private beach bonfire at Shell Beach or a farewell dinner on deck under the stars. The luxury of a Boatcrowd charter is that you choose the finale that suits your mood. As you unwind on your final night aboard, the gentle glow of Gustavia’s lights and the distant sound of music from the town provide a beautiful backdrop. It’s your last sleep in the plush comfort of your catamaran’s cabin – tomorrow you’ll trade gently rocking waves for terra firma, but not just yet. Savor every moment of this night anchored in Gustavia’s embrace.
Day 7: Disembarkation in Gustavia
Morning in Gustavia brings a mix of happiness and a touch of bittersweet – happy for the memories made, wistful that your luxury catamaran adventure is drawing to a close. Take in the scene as the island slowly comes to life: fishermen unloading the morning’s catch, café owners setting out baguettes and croissants, and joggers making their way up to Fort Karl for a view. Enjoy your final breakfast on board – perhaps on the sun-kissed aft deck – and soak up those last St. Barts vibes. If you’re an early riser, you might pop into town for a quick espresso run or a final stroll around the harbor, greeting friendly locals and browsing a boutique or two for that perfect souvenir. There might even be time for one last swim at Shell Beach or a short drive to Anse de Grande Saline for a quick walk on its pristine sands – a farewell kiss from St. Barts’ nature. By late morning, your crew will expertly maneuver the catamaran to the dock in Gustavia. It’s time to gather your belongings (how did our bags multiply with so many souvenirs and duty-free treasures?) and sadly say goodbye to your captain and crew, who by now feel like part of the family. Departure is typically around noon. Hugs and heartfelt thank-yous are exchanged – your crew ensured every moment was exceptional, from guiding you to the best snorkeling spots to serving delicious meals and remembering whether you take one sugar or two in your coffee.
As you step back onto the quay, you’ll feel the solid ground with sea legs that have adjusted to a week afloat. Take a last look at your beautiful catamaran gently tugging at its lines – it’s been your home, your vehicle of discovery, and your private oasis all in one. In the span of seven days, you’ve sailed approximately 120 nautical miles, visited three distinct islands (each with its own culture and charm), and created countless memories. From the glamour and gourmet of St. Barts and St. Martin to the utter tranquility of Anguilla’s hidden beaches, this itinerary showcased the best of the northeastern Caribbean. And perhaps most importantly, you shared the experience with your loved ones – enjoying every sunset, every underwater marvel, every island beat together. As a chauffeur takes you to the airport or your next destination, you’re already dreaming of your return. After all, the beauty of chartering is that no two experiences are ever the same – there are always new coves to discover, new dishes to try, and new stories to tell. St. Barts and her sister islands will be waiting to welcome you back whenever you’re ready for another sail.
Start Planning Your Catamaran Charter
A private catamaran charter in St. Barts isn’t just a vacation – it’s a bespoke journey crafted around your dreams. Whether you’re envisioning a festive winter holiday amid the yacht-set or a serene summer escape with the family, the team at Boatcrowd is ready to make it happen seamlessly. From selecting the perfect catamaran and crew to personalizing the itinerary and onboard amenities, Boatcrowd’s charter experts handle every detail to ensure your St. Bart's catamaran adventure exceeds all expectations. Our persuasive, client-focused approach means we listen to what matters most to you – be it gourmet dining, water sports, or secluded beach time – and tailor your charter accordingly, validated by our extensive local knowledge and global yacht network. Inquire now to start planning with Boatcrowd, and let us turn your St. Barts catamaran charter vision into reality. The turquoise waters, luxury catamarans, and hidden treasures of St. Barts and beyond are calling – answer that call, and embark on the ultimate luxury catamaran adventure with Boatcrowd today.
