Yacht Charter in Antigua and Barbuda

Yacht Charter Antigua and Barbuda

Yacht charter Antigua and Barbuda delivers a twin-island experience where nautical heritage, 365 beaches, and some of the Caribbean’s best-protected harbours converge under a near-constant tropical sun. Antigua’s English Harbour – home to the restored Georgian dockyard where Nelson once based his fleet – is the yachting capital of the eastern Caribbean, while the annual Antigua Sailing Week draws racing crews and spectators from around the globe each spring. Barbuda, 27 nautical miles to the north, offers a stark contrast: 17 miles of unbroken pink sand at Low Bay, a frigate bird sanctuary in Codrington Lagoon, and virtually no development in sight. The charter fleet here numbers over 50 vessels, from motor yachts of 68′–98′ and superyachts above 100′ to luxury catamarans from 55′. Peak season spans December to April, with trade winds of 15–20 knots and daytime temperatures around 28 °C; November and May bring shoulder-season calm and reduced rates.

Daily rates start from $8,000 on a mid-size motor yacht and from $10,200 on latest-model yachts above 89′, plus APA of typically 25–35%. Antigua and Barbuda’s defining edge is that rare combination of deep sailing tradition and untouched wilderness, separated by a half-day’s cruise.

Explore Antigua and Barbuda

Explore English Harbour, Barbuda’s pink-sand beaches, and the island’s top anchorages in the full Antigua and Barbuda destination guide.

Cruise between Antigua’s harbours and Barbuda’s wilderness with our ready-made Antigua and Barbuda charter itineraries.

Browse over 50 yachts available for charter across Antigua and Barbuda, including luxury catamarans from 55′, motor yachts of 68′–98′, and superyachts above 100′. Weekly rates start from approximately $56,000 on a modern motor yacht and from $71,400 on the latest vessels above 89′. Filter by yacht type, guest capacity, length, or daily rate to compare the fleet. English Harbour and Falmouth Harbour offer excellent provisioning and marina facilities for embarkation. Boatcrowd’s charter specialists can help pair the right vessel with an itinerary spanning Antigua’s historic harbours and Barbuda’s unspoilt pink-sand shores.

Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book an Antigua charter?

For peak-season departures (December–April) and Antigua Sailing Week (late April), booking 6–12 months ahead is strongly recommended. English Harbour fills rapidly during the yachting season. Shoulder-season windows in November and May can often be arranged with 2–3 months’ notice, particularly when yachts reposition between the Caribbean and the Mediterranean.

Can I combine Antigua with neighbouring islands?

Antigua is well-positioned for multi-island cruising in the eastern Caribbean. Barbuda lies 27 nautical miles north – a comfortable half-day sail. St Kitts sits roughly 50 nautical miles to the north-west, and Guadeloupe about 40 nautical miles south. A 10–14-day charter from Antigua can cover several neighbouring islands, offering a rich mix of French, British, and Creole Caribbean cultures.

What is included in the charter price?

The base charter fee covers the yacht, professional crew, and all onboard amenities – water toys, snorkelling gear, tenders, paddleboards, and linens. Food, beverages, fuel, and marina fees are managed through the APA (typically 25–35% of the charter fee). Crew gratuity of 10–20% is customary and paid separately at the end of the voyage.

Is Antigua and Barbuda suitable for families with young children?

The islands are an excellent family charter choice. Antigua’s 365 beaches include many calm, shallow bays perfect for young swimmers, and Nelson’s Dockyard offers an engaging historical excursion. Barbuda’s Low Bay is impossibly gentle – knee-deep turquoise stretching for hundreds of metres, perfect for toddlers and first-time snorkellers. Catamarans provide stable platforms and wide decks well-suited to families with small children, and the crew can tailor meals and shore excursions to younger guests.