The US Virgin Islands (USVI) and the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are the two most popular charter destinations in the Caribbean mainly known for a vibrant yacht charter industry. The USVI consists of three main islands—St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix—each offering its own unique charms. The USVI boasts crystal-clear turquoise waters, pristine white-sand beaches, and a variety of anchorages and marinas, making it an ideal playground for yacht charter vacations. Chartering a yacht in the USVI allows guests to explore the picturesque bays, indulge in world-class diving and snorkeling sites, and experience the vibrant culture and nightlife of the islands.
On the other hand, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a breathtaking archipelago consisting of over 60 islands and islets, providing an enchanting experience for yacht charterers. The BVI is widely considered the sailing capital of the Caribbean, offering consistent trade winds, protected anchorages, and excellent navigational conditions. The islands are renowned for their unspoiled natural beauty, including iconic destinations such as The Baths, Virgin Gorda, and the world-famous beach bars of Jost Van Dyke. Yacht chartering in the BVI offers opportunities for snorkeling in vibrant coral reefs, exploring secluded coves, and enjoying the warm hospitality of the local islanders.
The proximity of the USVI and the BVI makes it possible for charterers to easily explore both regions, maximizing their Caribbean adventure. Whether seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, the USVI and the BVI are idyllic destinations for charter guests, offering a seamless blend of natural beauty, tropical serenity, and nautical exploration.
We invite you to experience the USVI’s and BVI’s on a customized crewed charter with Charter Smarter!
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Many of our guests choose to celebrate special occasions such as weddings, honeymoons, anniversaries, Valentine’s Day, or even vow renewals! We have extensive experience in arranging wedding charters for both large and small parties. We work closely with the crew and local services such as bands and photographers to ensure that all your wedding celebration plans are taken care of. The crew we recommend are experts in providing a romantic experience for their guests, whether it’s creating a private and luxurious setting for couples to relax and enjoy each other’s company, setting up romantic meal settings, or organizing romantic celebrations.
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Chartering multiple yachts is an incredibly enjoyable way to bring together large groups for an exciting island-hopping adventure! When chartering multiple yachts, it’s often possible to raft up together at anchor. If members of the group want to do different activities, such as fishing or scuba diving, while others prefer sunbathing or going ashore, the yachts can always split up and rendezvous later. Meals and social gatherings can be enjoyed together, whether it’s on the yacht, at the beach, or at a local establishment.
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With a personalized itinerary that caters to your preferred schedule and pace, you have the flexibility to scuba dive at your own leisure and visit the dive sites of your choice. One of the advantages of chartering a yacht is that many of these dive sites are located in remote areas only accessible by smaller vessels, ensuring you can explore pristine coral reefs teeming with vibrant marine life. Even if some members of your group do not dive, they won’t feel left out as most dive sites also offer excellent snorkeling opportunities. Alternatively, they can partake in the numerous onboard activities offered by the yacht or venture ashore while you indulge in your diving adventures.
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Our charter yachts provide an ideal setting for an unforgettable family vacation, catering to the needs of families with young kids, teenagers, or young adult children. Our crews are well-equipped and experienced in handling kids that are old enough to swim, ensuring they have a blast while exploring the charter destinations to the fullest. They will even prepare meals tailored to each person’s preferences, accommodating even the pickiest eaters. If you’re a parent, you can unwind and witness your kids having the time of their lives. Cherish the adventures and precious moments together, as there are abundant activities and experiences for everyone to enjoy during this exceptional island-hopping vacation.
CHARTER TYPES
SAMPLE ITINERARIES
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Your arrival is scheduled for the afternoon at American Yacht Harbor or Yacht Haven Grande. Before setting off to Maho Bay, Francis Bay or Waterlemon for the evening, there will be a safety briefing.
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Following breakfast, the plan is to leave for Sopers Hole located on the West End of Tortola. The captain will handle the check-in process for everyone entering the British Virgin Islands. Afterward, the journey continues to Norman Island, where lunch will be served before exploring the caves through snorkeling. Later, there will be time to freshen up for dinner and optionally, the opportunity to visit Willie T either before or after the meal.
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Following breakfast, set off for a morning snorkeling session at The Indians. Afterward, sail towards Cooper Island. At Cooper Island, take pleasure in the resort amenities, embark on a diving excursion or engage in snorkeling activities near the shoreline.
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Set off for the Baths, where you can explore the unique rock formations. For lunch, you have the option of enjoying a meal on the boat or considering the top of The Baths as a dining choice. Your guests can either swim in at the park or head to the mooring field outside of Spanish Town and take a taxi tour. Ensure that you return to the boat by 3:30 pm and then sail towards your next destination, which could be Mountain Point, Leverick Bay, or Bitter End. Alternatively, you can move the boat while your guests are on the taxi tour and meet them in Leverick Bay.
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Start the day with an early departure to Anegada. A light breakfast will be available. You have the option of having lunch on the boat or suggesting that your guests spend the day on the island. It is highly recommended that the captain rents a safari truck and takes your guests to visit Flash of Beauty, Big Bamboo, and Tipsy by Ann, which is an excellent spot for lunch. Return to the boat to freshen up for dinner. If you plan to dine ashore, remember to make your dinner reservations as soon as you arrive. Alternatively, if the plan to visit Anegada doesn’t work out, you can consider visiting Marina Cay and Scrub Island or White Bay at Guana Island as an alternative for Day 5.
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You’ll visit Jost Van Dyke via dinghy. White Bay may be reached directly, or via cab from Great Harbour. Leave for Caneel Bay at 3 o’clock. Take a dinghy to Cruz Bay and get through customs there. You can spend the night at either Caneel or Christmas Cove.
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A short sail brings you to Little Saint James and it’s famous shallow snorkeling! Enjoy lunch and then a short hop over to the famous Christmas Cove! Finish your final day on board with watersports, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, and as much lounging and relaxing as you can! Not to mention stopping by Pizza Pi – the Virgin Islands only floating pizza boat! Great cocktails and slices, as well as camaraderie are available as you slowly find your way to the yacht for sundowners. Celebrate your week with an amazing final meal, cocktails and reminiscing about your fun and adventurous week spent sailing the Virgin Islands.
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After a breakfast it’s time to head back to your home port. Take time to remember the great week you’ve had with family and friends and make plans to return as your crew guides the yacht home to your departure port by noon.
Your trip will be customized to your liking so be sure to express your desires to your crew. With that said, some of the on-board activities such as E-Foil may be only available on certain charters so be sure to inquire with us first if you have any questions or concerns prior to booking.
BVI
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You’ll meet your crew on the dock in one of the marinas located on St Thomas. You’ll review a safety and settle in on private charter yacht and then you’re on your way! Settle in for a quick sail to St. John which is home to a large National Park that covers much of the island. Home to tropical and migrating birds, fish, corals and other marine life it’s a spectacular place to spend the night. Stop in Maho for snacks and maybe paddle up or swim into Maho Crossroads – a pop up Tiki bar. Then enjoy the waters of Francis Bay, for dinner, drinks and your first evening aboard in the Virgin Islands.
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Wake up and snorkel, paddleboard, or just watch the turtles swim on by as you enjoy your breakfast. Head on over to Waterlemon Bay for exceptional snorkeling. Enjoy lunch onboard and then consider a hike to the Anneberg plantation. Perfectly preserved and reached easily by foot this National Park site is a living example of the cultural history that the Virgin Islands has to offer. Relax with a cocktail, a good novel and your favorite tunes as you sail around St John to Princess Bay. Consider a dinghy ride into the world famous Coral Bay to enjoy sundowners at Skinny Legs! After all the action you will be ready for appetizers and sundowners back aboard the yacht while the sun sets, followed by a hearty dinner.
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Wake up and enjoy the quiet of the harbor. Following breakfast jump into the calm water for a snorkel or a kayak. Consider a stop at Round Bay to grab a margarita or a taco at the swim up bar Lime Out! Swim back to your yacht for a light lunch and a then head over to Booby Rock for the amazing underwater life. A quick sail to Little Lameshur bay to enjoy access to the many hiking trails or just to enjoy a stroll on the beach. Finish the day onboard with cocktails, canapes and an amazing dinner.
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After breakfast aboard, haul up the anchor raise the sails and head out for Buck Island. Situated off the south side of St Thomas this island is home to a turtle nesting ground and is a national park. Enjoy the swimming with the turtles and pop back on board for a lively lunch. A quick hop around the corner puts you over the wreck of the Cartanza! Situated in shallow water this is a great place to explore the mysteries of the not-so-deep. Take an afternoon sail to Water Island! Consider a dinghy ride to Dinghy’s bar and grill and enjoy a cocktail with your toes in the sand. Cocktail hour back on your yacht, while the sun sets over the islands ends another perfect day, followed by good food and good company.
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Another beautiful day in paradise begins with breakfast on board. A quick jaunt to Brewers Bay lets your enjoy watersports, snorkeling and is home to several pods of dolphins! Look out for fun and friends. Home to the University of the Virgin Island marine science program you can witness students tagging turtles and collecting water samples on the beach. Going clockwise around St. Thomas, you’ll stop for lunch on the leeward side of Outer Brass Island. A deserted island home to migratory birds and local deer and goat enjoy the remote quiet as you enjoy your tasty treats. A short trip takes you into the world famous Magens Bay! This stunning mile long stretch of sand is a perfect spot for walking the beach as the sun goes down. The beach bar offers great libations as well. Back on board it’s time for another amazing meal!
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After a relaxed morning coffee and breakfast raise the anchor and the sails to head to a secret snorkeling spots off the barrier islands of Mingo Cay. Circle around to the back side of Lovango for lunch and end the day moored at Honeymoon bay. With close proximity to Cruz Bay, St John there is tons of options for a dinner ashore, shopping or generally sharing the Caribbean spirit with locals and tourists alike. A great dinner is also available onboard, not to mention some terrific stargazing.
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A short sail brings you to Little Saint James, and it’s famous shallow snorkeling! Enjoy lunch and then a short hop over to the famous Christmas Cove! Finish your final day on board with watersports, swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding and as much lounging and relaxing as you can! Not to mention stopping by Pizza Pi – the Virgin Islands only floating pizza boat! Great cocktails and slices, as well as camaraderie are available as you slowly find your way to the yacht for sundowners. Celebrate your week with an amazing final meal, cocktails and reminiscing about your fun and adventurous week spent sailing the U.S. Virgin Islands.
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After a breakfast it’s time to head back to your home port. Take time to remember the great week you’ve had with family and friends and make plans to return as your crew guides the yacht home to your departure port by noon.
Your trip will be customized to your liking so be sure to express your desires to your crew. With that said, some of the on-board activities such as E-Foil may be only available on certain charters so be sure to inquire with us first if you have any questions or concerns prior to booking.
