
Taking a yacht charter vacation in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) offers an idyllic escape filled with stunning scenery, clear blue waters, and vibrant marine life. The cost of such a vacation can vary widely depending on several factors, including the type of yacht, the time of year, the length of the charter, and additional services or amenities you choose. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect to pay:
1. Type of Yacht Charter
- Bareboat Charter:
- Cost: $5,000 – $40,000 per week for a 40-50 foot catamaran (sailing or power). Skipper: $250 + per day, plus meals. Expenses: You must cover all expenses, fuel, food, beverages, moorings, etc.
- A bareboat charter means you rent the yacht without a crew. You’ll need sailing experience or hire a qualified skipper. These are popular for those who want a more hands-on experience and can range from basic sailboats to more luxurious catamarans. You are responsible for provisions, cooking, and cleaning the vessel.
- Captain Only Charter:
- Cost: $10,000- 18,000 for the boat and Captain. Expenses: You must cover all expenses, fuel, food, beverages, moorings, etc.
- This option is where a captain is provided, but no additional crew, such as a chef or stewardess. This type of charter is a more budget-friendly alternative to a fully crewed yacht charter while still offering the benefit of expert navigation and local knowledge. You are responsible for provisions, cooking, and cleaning the vessel.
- Crewed Charter:
- Cost: $15,000 – $40,000 per week for a 46-55 foot catamaran; $50,000 – $100,000+ per week for luxury catamarans 60ft +
- This option includes a captain and a chef. Depending on size will come with an additional crew member like a stewardess or deckhand. Prices vary depending on the yacht’s size, age, and amenities. Crewed charters are ideal for those looking to relax and be pampered during their vacation. These options in the Caribbean are all-inclusive. These options in the Mediterranean are plus Advanced Provision Allowance and VAT.
- Superyacht Charter:
- Cost: $100,000 – $500,000 plus Expenses per week.
- Superyachts are the epitome of luxury and come with a full crew, including chefs, stewards, and deckhands. These yachts are often equipped with top-of-the-line amenities like pools, Jacuzzis, water toys, and tenders. These options are plus expenses.
2. Time of Year
- High Season (December – April):
- Cost: Higher rates; typically 10-20% more than the low season. Rates run higher during Christmas and New Years, with some weeks like Thanksgiving and Spring Break being an increased rate as well. The rest of the weeks are normal unless there are specials. Specials vary per yacht.
- This is the most popular time to charter in the BVI, particularly around the holidays (Christmas and New Year’s). The weather is perfect, and there’s a vibrant social scene.
- Low Season (May – November):
- Normal rates; potential savings of 10-30% with Specials. (Everything is closed August – October 31st)
- The low season sees fewer tourists and more competitive pricing. However, this period coincides with hurricane season, so there’s a risk of inclement weather. Many charters offer flexible booking policies during this time.
3. Additional Costs
- Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA): ( for charters that are not all-inclusive)
- Cost: Typically 25-40% of the base charter rate.
- This covers expenses such as fuel, food, beverages, dockage, and any special requests. Any unused APA is refunded at the end of the charter, while any overages are settled before disembarkation.
- Gratuity:
- Cost: 10-25% of the charter fee. The Caribbean is 15-25% and the Mediterranean is 10-15%
- It’s customary to tip the crew at the end of your charter if you’re satisfied with the service. The tip is shared among the crew members.
- Taxes and Fees:
- Cost: Variable; typically 7-22% of the charter fee. This depends on the country in which you charter. The BVI all-inclusive charters have this included in the fee unless otherwise specified.
- Depending on where you start your charter, you may be subject to local taxes and cruising permits.
4. Charter Duration
- Weekly Charters:
- Cost: The standard charter length is 8 days and 7 nights, with rates provided on a weekly basis.
- Most charters are booked for one week, but shorter or longer charters can be arranged at a prorated rate and per the vessel’s approval.
- Shorter Charters:
- Higher daily rates.
- Some operators offer shorter charters, usually at a premium daily rate.
5. Inclusions and Exclusions
- Inclusions: Many yacht charters include basic water toys (snorkel gear, paddleboards, kayaks), linens, and towels. Crewed charters include customized meals, non-alcoholic beverages, and a selection of alcoholic drinks.
- Exclusions: Airfare, transfers, premium beverages, anything you choose to eat or drink on land, diving, and specialty activities are usually not included in the base charter rate.
6. Booking Strategies
- Early Booking:
- Benefit: Lock in your preferred yacht and dates. Some operators offer early booking discounts or additional perks like free water toys or complimentary excursions.
- Last-Minute Deals:
- Benefit: Potential savings if a yacht is still available close to the departure date. Be prepared to be flexible with dates and yacht options.
- Group Discounts:
- Benefit: Sharing the cost of a larger yacht among multiple couples or families can reduce the per-person cost significantly.
Example Cost Breakdown
Let’s say you’re interested in an 8-day, 7-night crewed catamaran charter for 6 people during the high season. Here’s a rough estimate:
- All-Inclusive Charter Fee: $21,000
- Gratuity (15%): $3,150
Total Estimated Cost: $24,150 or approximately $4,025 per person.
See an example here, Sailing Catamaran Infinity
See a higher-end example here, Sailing Catamaran Ohana
The cost of a yacht charter vacation in the BVI in 2024 can vary significantly based on the type of yacht, the time of year, and additional services. Whether you’re looking for a budget-friendly bareboat charter or a luxurious superyacht experience, there’s an option to fit a range of budgets. Careful planning and understanding the different cost components can help you make the most of your BVI yacht charter vacation.
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