Should I Book a BVI Crewed Yacht or Bareboat Charter?

BVI Crewed Yacht or Bareboat Yacht – Which Is Best For Your Sailing Vacation?

Planning a yacht charter in the beautiful British Virgin Islands but unsure whether to book a BVI crewed yacht or a BVI bareboat yacht? You’re not alone. The BVI offers a range of charter types, from fully crewed luxury yachts to self-skippered bareboats, each offering a unique way to explore this Caribbean paradise. Whether you crave the luxury and ease of having a captain and chef onboard or prefer the thrill of navigating your own course, this guide will help you decide which charter style best fits your vacation dreams.

Luxury BVI crewed yacht with guests enjoying sunset dining on deck

Why Choose a BVI Crewed Yacht Charter with Virgin Island Sailing®

✔️ All-Inclusive Luxury – Sail aboard a private sailing catamaran, power catamaran, or motor yacht with everything included from meals to drinks to itinerary planning.

✔️ Custom Gourmet Cuisine – Your chef prepares delicious, personalized menus based on your preferences, allergies, and dietary needs, including gluten-free, vegan, or picky-eater-friendly options.

✔️ Open Bar & Premium Drinks – Enjoy a full selection of beer, wine, cocktails, and non-alcoholic beverages tailored to your preferences.

✔️ Toys & Adventure Included – Most crewed yachts are stocked with paddleboards, kayaks, snorkel gear, fishing equipment, wakeboards, and more.

✔️ Wider Yacht Selection – With access to more yachts and trusted partners, we help match you to the perfect crewed yacht for your budget, style, and travel dates, while saving you time and taking care of every detail.

✔️ Tailored Itinerary – Cruise the BVI at your pace with a customized itinerary, explore hidden coves, bustling beach bars, or tranquil bays.

Why Choose a BVI Bareboat Yacht Charter with Virgin Island Sailing®

✔️ Cost-Effective Travel – Bareboat charters are typically more budget-friendly than crewed options, making them a great choice for independent adventurers.

✔️ Perfect for Confident Beginners (and Experienced Boaters) – The calm waters, steady trade winds, and easy line-of-sight navigation make the BVI an ideal destination for first-time bareboat charterers. It’s equally well-suited for skilled sailors and power boaters looking to captain their own adventure aboard a sailing catamaran, monohull, or power catamarans.

✔️ Freedom & Independence – Take the helm and explore the British Virgin Islands on your own schedule, with complete control over your route, anchorages, and activities.

✔️ Free Cruising Guide Book – Receive a complimentary guidebook packed with local insights and sailing tips to help you explore the Virgin Islands with confidence.

✔️ Booking Protection Guarantee – If your reserved yacht becomes unavailable, we’ll rebook you with a trusted partner and cover up to 20% of any price difference if needed.

BVI bareboat yacht anchored in a quiet bay

Explore Your BVI Charter Options

FeatureBareboat Yacht ChartersCrewed Yacht Charters
Available Yacht TypesBareboat Sailing Catamarans
Bareboat Power Catamarans
Bareboat Monohulls
Crewed Sailing Catamarans
Crewed Power Catamarans
Crewed Motor Yachts
Crewed Superyachts
CaptainOptional (Hire a skipper for $200 – $300/day) Included in Charter

Plan Your BVI Adventure Like a Pro

Weather & Seasons | Sample Itinerary | Travel Info

US Virgin Islands | Bahamas | Belize | St. Martin | Grenadines | Greece | Croatia | Tahiti

Let’s start planning your
BVI sailing vacation!