Bareboat Insider
Chart Your Own Course: The Allure of Bareboat Yacht Charters
If you’re considering a yacht charter for your next vacation, a bareboat charter might be the perfect option for you. Unlike crewed charters, bareboat charters put you in the captain’s seat, giving you a unique and independent sailing experience.
One of the key aspects of a bareboat charter is the responsibility that comes with being the skipper of the yacht. As the captain, you’ll have control over navigation, safety, and the overall operation of the vessel. This means you should have the necessary sailing experience or qualifications to handle the yacht effectively.
The freedom and flexibility of a bareboat charter are unparalleled. You have the freedom to plan your own itinerary, choose where to anchor, and decide how long to stay at each location. This level of personalization allows for a more adventurous and tailored experience, making it an ideal choice for those who want to chart their own course.
Another unique aspect of a bareboat charter is the provision and self-catering responsibilities. Unlike crewed charters, where the crew takes care of provisions and cooking, in a bareboat charter, you are responsible for provisioning the yacht with food and supplies. This adds a different dimension to the experience, requiring planning and organization to ensure you have everything you need for the duration of the charter.
Navigational skills are crucial for bareboat charters, as you’ll need to have adequate knowledge of sailing and understanding of charts, navigation markers, and handling the yacht in different weather conditions. It’s an opportunity for those with sailing expertise to fully utilize their skills and for those looking to enhance their navigational abilities.
In terms of cost, bareboat charters can be more cost-effective compared to crewed charters, as you’re not hiring additional staff or crew. However, it’s important to factor in your own competence in handling the yacht and the associated responsibilities.
It’s essential to keep in mind that bareboat charters are best suited for those with sailing experience or appropriate certifications. If you’re new to sailing, some charter companies may require you to hire a skipper or undergo a brief training session before embarking on a bareboat charter.
A bareboat charter offers a unique and independent sailing experience, providing you with the opportunity to be the captain of your own adventure. Whether you’re an experienced sailor or looking to enhance your sailing skills, a bareboat charter can offer an unforgettable and personalized yachting experience.
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BVI Bareboat Yacht Charter
VI Sailing Team
“Team as always was great.
Our 10th time using your service.
Great in assisting us to find the right boat for our family.”
Charter Company & Yacht
“Eric was great. Complete and thorough.
The yacht was perfect. No issues.
Navigare was great.”
– Andy Willis
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BVI Bareboat Yacht Charter
VI Sailing Team
“I appreciated the discount provided to us as return customers.
Very easy working with your broker to book the yacht.”
Charter Company & Yacht
“In spite of a few malfunctions, the response from base was good and issues eventually resolved.
We had a wonderful time overall and the boat was lovely.”
– Leslie Chasser
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BVI Bareboat Yacht Charter
VI Sailing Team
“Working with our broker and concierge was very easy. First time booking with a charter broker.
Vacation planner was thorough.”
Charter Company & Yacht
“The person who reviewed the boat was very good.
Loved it. BYI’s are gorgeous.
We did a 63NM transit around Tortola.”
– Carolyn Allen
crewed insider
Bahamas Taxes Now Included!
Rates for the yachts below are ALL-INCLUSIVE of Bahamian taxes.
No more extra math; the 10% VAT and 4% Bahamian tax are bundled right into the charter rate. The rates also include the Full Board meal plan!
Dream Beauty Crewed Charters
Experience the epitome of luxury sailing charters with Dream Beauty, a Lagoon 620 sailing catamaran that accommodates 10 guests in 5 cabins.
Wide side decks and integrated hatchways, providing a stress-free exterior experience. The flybridge transforms into a new living space, welcoming the entire family to enjoy panoramic views. With ample space, including a lounge area and sunbathing terrace, every moment on board is a celebration of luxury.
The central galley provides a panoramic view of the outside and the saloon/dining room and passengers can engage with the chef while enjoying the scenic surroundings.
And the excitement doesn’t end there… indulge in a range of water toys and activities, including Snorkeling Gear, an eFoil Jet Surfboard, Seabobs, 1-Person Kayaks, Paddle Boards, Pedal Boards, Surfboard, Hobie Pedal Kayak, Lilly Pad, Noodles, Fishing Rods, and Onshore Games. Your adventure awaits!
Mira Sol Crewed Charters
Embark on an extraordinary Bahamian adventure with Mira Sol, a luxurious Lagoon 560 sailing catamaran that accommodates 6 guests in 3 cabins.
Stand out in style under the bespoke hardtop bimini on the fly bridge, offering shaded comfort with panoramic views while cruising or at anchor. Tailored for deep-sea fishing enthusiasts, Mira Sol comes fully equipped with an extensive array of fishing gear for offshore angling adventures.
For underwater exploration, dive into vibrant ecosystems with provided snorkeling equipment. Thrill-seekers will delight in high-performance underwater scooters, while water sports enthusiasts can tow a tube, wakeboard, or kneeboard for an exhilarating ride on the waves. When relaxation calls, enjoy a leisurely float on the water’s surface with provided floating mats.
Mira Sol is not just a yacht; it’s a floating hub of aquatic entertainment. With amenities like Stand Up Paddle Boards, 2-Person Kayaks, Kneeboard, Snorkeling Gear, Floating Mat, Tubes, and Fishing Gear, it promises an unforgettable and indulgent experience for everyone on board!
Sisu Crewed Charters
Step aboard Sisu, a 45′ Leopard Catamaran, perfect for outdoor living enthusiasts.
Accommodating 4 guests in 2 cabins, she features a cozy lounge, communal table, sunbed, and outdoor speakers.
The unique design offers seamless access with floating stairs and an expansive forward cockpit for free movement even while sailing. The strategically placed helm station enhances the sailing experience, blending functionality with luxury.
Sisu exceeds all expectations on charter, and with a variety of adventurous toys like Stand Up Paddle Boards, eFoil, , Snorkeling Gear, and Fishing Gear, the adventure never stops!
Sample 7-Day Exumas Yacht Charter Itinerary
With an island for every day of the year, the 365 islands creating the Exumas in the Bahamas is the ultimate playground for the rich and famous. Enjoy miles of pristine beaches, famous attractions and wildlife experiences you just cannot replicate anywhere else in the world.
Day 1 – Warderick Wells Cay
Known as the headquarters of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park this island offers a peek into some truly unique gems, including the Warderick Wells Cay rare Stromatolites, an ancient life form.
Drop anchor at Warderick Wells and take a trail up to Boo Boo Hill for an unparalleled panoramic view of the island and the Park.
As part of a long-standing tradition, bring a piece of driftwood with your boat’s name carved into it to the top of the hill as an offering to the gods.
If you’re interested in the historical Loyalist influence in the Bahamas, explore the fascinating ruins of an 18th-century Loyalist plantation, which also offers a stunning view of the island.
Day 2 – Staniel Cay
This breathtaking destination offers a variety of attractions, including the famous swimming pigs, film locations, stunning wildlife, and a beautiful beach.
One of the highlights of a visit to Staniel Cay is the opportunity to interact with the swimming pigs at Big Major’s Spot. Feeding these incredible creatures is a unique experience that will provide you with unforgettable memories and some fantastic photo opportunities.
If you’re a fan of James Bond, you’ll be delighted to know that Staniel Cay has been featured in several of the iconic films. Thunderball Grotto, used in the films Thunderball and Never Say Never Again, offers an exciting snorkeling experience where you can observe an array of colorful fish and even spot octopuses.
On the island, you’ll have the chance to sample local delicacies and visit a picturesque church set in a stunning location.
Staniel Cay is conveniently located near Compass Cay, making it the perfect starting point for your next adventure.
Day 3 – Compass Cay
One of the most exhilarating experiences at Compass Cay is the chance to interact with nurse sharks right off the dock at Compass Cay Marina. These docile creatures will amaze visitors of all ages and dispel any myths about the fearsome nature of sharks.
For those looking to explore further, a jungle walk through the lush surroundings of the island is a must. And for the adventurous souls, there’s the opportunity to conquer the 92-foot highest peak on the island.
To wind down after your adventures, make your way to one of the 13 luxurious beaches that Compass Cay boasts.
And for a truly unique experience, don’t miss a chance to soak in Rachel’s Bubble Bath, a natural sea foam pool that is sure to rejuvenate your spirits during your visit.
Day 4 – Shroud Cay
This uninhabited gem is a part of the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, ensuring that it remains completely untouched and pristine.
Once you’ve explored the secluded areas, you can venture back into the main body of water, where you’ll be surrounded by an abundance of fish species. If you’re lucky, you might even come across some of the friendly local turtles.
Day 5 – Allan, Norman, and Highbourne Cay
Your first stop on this island-hopping journey will be Allan’s Cay, where you can make a pit stop to feed some friendly iguanas. These tame creatures are known to approach visitors and will gladly accept any fruit you offer them.
Next, head over to Norman’s Cay for an exciting dive to explore the wreckage of a drug smuggler’s plane. This infamous island was once the base of the notorious drug smuggler Carlos Ledher in the late 70s and has now become a popular tourist destination.
Finally, make your way to Highbourne Cay where you can relax on one of the eight beaches covered in ultra-soft white sand.
This unique island, shaped like the letter H, was once a watermelon plantation and offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy a peaceful stroll along the shore, with the high likelihood that your footprints will be the only ones in the sand.
Day 6 – Harbour Island
Harbour Island is famous for its three-mile-long stretch of stunning pink sand.
Locally known as Briland, Harbour Island boasts charming streets lined with vibrant flowers and elegant English colonial architecture.
Renting a golf cart makes it easy to explore the island and indulge in local delicacies and cuisine.
Before you depart from Harbour Island, don’t miss the striking sight of Devil’s Backbone. Named for the navigational danger it poses to boats, this formation of raised corals also offers breathtaking views of underwater life.
Day 7 – Explore Nassau
Be sure to set aside a day to explore the renowned Atlantis. This magnificent hotel boasts an impressive array of attractions that could keep you engaged for weeks.
Once you arrive, consider immersing yourself in the underwater world by walking through the breathtaking tunnel and getting an up-close view of sharks.
The Atlantis Marine Habitat offers even more opportunities to experience the wonders of the ocean.
Continue your connection with nature by picking up a beautifully woven tote and spending the day shelling on the beach.
NEWS & EVENTS
BVI Spring Regatta 2024
Experience the excitement and thrill of the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival, a premier annual racing event set in the picturesque Caribbean. Whether you’re a seasoned racer, a leisurely cruiser, or just looking for a good time, this event has it all and more.
Mark your calendars for the 50th edition of the BVI Spring Regatta, taking place from April 1 to April 7, 2024.
The festival kicks off with three days of coastal racing and celebrations, followed by a Maritime Heritage Day at Nanny Cay.
The week culminates with the main Regatta, featuring three days of intense racing action in different areas around the Sir Francis Drake Channel, with divisions for one-design, bareboat, and performance cruising yachts.
But it’s not all about the racing; the Regatta Village offers a carnival-like atmosphere, with food, drinks, games, and entertainment for both landlubbers and sailors to enjoy.
So, whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just looking for a good party, come and enjoy an unforgettable week of fun at the BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival.
2024 Virgin Islands & Windward Islands Cruising Guides – Just Released!
The highly anticipated 2024 cruising guides for these breathtaking destinations have just been released and they are jam-packed with all the must-see spots, hidden gems, and insider tips for an unforgettable sailing adventure.
YACHTING COCKTAIL RECIPE OF THE MONTH
~ MUDSLIDE ~
As you raise the glass, the Mudslide becomes more than a cocktail; it’s a celebration… a toast to the finer moments, the gentle rocking of the waves, and the camaraderie aboard your yacht.
Optionally adorned with a drizzle of chocolate syrup or a crown of whipped cream, this cocktail elevates your maritime escape into an extraordinary affair.
Ingredients:
~ 1 ounce vodka
~ 1 ounce coffee liqueur (e.g., Kahlúa)
~ 1 ounce Irish cream liqueur (e.g., Baileys)
~ Ice
~ Chocolate syrup (optional, for garnish)
~ Whipped cream (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Fill a shaker with ice.
2. Add the vodka, coffee liqueur, and Irish cream to the shaker.
3. Shake the ingredients well until the mixture is chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
5. Optionally, drizzle chocolate syrup over the top for garnish.
6. If desired, top with a dollop of whipped cream.
7. Serve and enjoy your indulgent Mudslide cocktail!
The Mudslide is a delightful and decadent cocktail, perfect for those who enjoy a rich and creamy treat with a hint of coffee flavor. Feel free to customize the garnishes and proportions to suit your taste preferences.
Cheers!
DESTINATION SPOTLIGHT
Sail Away in Basse-Terre: Where Yachting Combines Adventure with Tranquility
Basse-Terre, Guadeloupe beckons yachting enthusiasts to its shores for unparalleled maritime excursions. The allure of the island’s destinations is undeniable offering a mosaic of azure waters and lush landscapes.
Yachting in Basse-Terre seamlessly merges high-seas adventure with the serenity of the Caribbean promising a sailing experience as rich as the local culture.
Chart a course for the famed isles of Les Saintes or the nature-rich Cousteau reserve, both inviting sailors with their allure.
Basse-Terre yacht charters often tread these popular waters offering scenic sailings and bustling marina activity.
Yet, venture off the beaten path and you’ll discover secluded anchorages in Basse-Terre teeming with untouched landscapes and tranquil seascapes. Quiet coves and hidden bays become your silent retreats where the rhythm of Guadeloupe sailing destinations beats to an intimate drum.
Take time to uncover these gems, like the verdant islets dotting the coastline, each with a story steeped in local culture and history.
Drop anchor in Basse-Terre, and you’ll soon savor the vibrant tapestry of its local cuisine. The island’s markets brim with fresh seafood and produce ripe for the taking aboard your chartered vessel.
You haven’t truly experienced Guadeloupe until you’ve tasted the traditional dishes, each a symphony of flavors. From sea to table, the island’s fishermen offer their catch. Indulge in the fusion of French and Caribbean culinary artistry… spices dance in Creole concoctions providing a feast not just for the palate but for the soul.
Cast off the day’s itinerary and immerse yourself in Basse-Terre’s cultural offerings. Festivals pulse with the energy of vibrant music and dance inviting you to join in the celebration.
As the sun dips beneath the horizon partake in beachside barbecues where laughter and stories are shared as freely as the spiced rum. Embrace this slice of paradise and let the island’s rhythm fuel your yachting journey.
Memories made among Basse-Terre’s secluded coves and azure waters will linger like the salty sea breeze. Days spent exploring Guadeloupe’s rich tapestry of local culture and sampling its exuberant flavors will refuse to fade.
These moments, unique to each voyage, forge the tales of adventure that we cherish. Now it’s your turn to craft a narrative that’s distinctively yours.
Embrace the call of sailing in Basse-Terre and anchor your story in the heart of the Caribbean. Set sail, navigate by the stars, and let the shores of Guadeloupe redefine your definition of escape.
Contact us today to help you get started on this dream vacation!
