If you’re looking for a once in a lifetime vacation then hiring a yacht in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is definitely one to look into. Lots of travelers head to the islands for a winter break but not many of them end up taking a yacht vacation. Hiring a yacht gives you a chance to see and do things most people only dream about.
Yachting in the BVI is about making memories that last forever. You might watch the sunset from the deck, snorkel in beautiful reefs, or just relax and listen to the ocean. These moments are precious and stay with you for a lifetime. In this article, we will go over several things to know about hiring a yacht when you visit the BVI.
1 Types of yacht hires
There are several options for yacht charters in the BVI, each offering a different type of experience. You can choose what best fits your needs. The two types are crewed and bareboat.
A crewed yacht hire is just as the name suggests. When you hire one you get a captain and crew so you aren’t responsible for navigating and you don’t need to know anything about sailing.
Companies like 12knots are experts in providing top-notch service where everything is handled by a professional crew. They take care of the navigation, cooking, and all the details. This means you can sit back and enjoy your vacation without any stress. The crew also knows the best spots in the BVI that are not to be missed and can bring you to secluded locations that offer privacy and incredible natural beauty.
If you prefer a bit more adventure and independence, a bareboat charter might be the perfect fit. This option allows you to captain your own yacht, giving you the freedom to explore the BVI at your own pace. To charter a bareboat, you’ll need to have sailing experience and be comfortable handling a yacht on your own. It’s a rewarding way to travel as it lets you tailor your itinerary exactly to your liking.
2 The BVI is one of the world’s great sailing locations
The BVI is a perfect place for yachting because of their beautiful scenery, great sailing conditions, and variety of islands to explore. The area includes over 60 islands and cays, so you have plenty of options for different sights and experiences. The waters are clear, and the weather is usually sunny, which makes it ideal for spending time on the sea.
One of the best things about yachting in the BVI is how close the islands are to each other. This makes it easy to visit many places in a short amount of time. You can have breakfast in one secluded spot, lunch by a private beach, and dinner under the stars at another location, all in one day.
The BVI is also known for its steady trade winds. These winds make sailing smoother and easier, especially for those who aren’t very experienced sailors. The islands also have safe waters and well-equipped marinas, which help make your trip comfortable and secure.
Another advantage of yachting here is privacy. Many of the beaches and coves in the BVI can only be reached by boat, allowing you to enjoy your vacation away from crowded tourist spots.
3 Planning is essential
When you decide to go yachting in the British Virgin Islands, planning ahead can make your trip much smoother.
The climate in the BVI is tropical and sunny so it’s a good option any time of year, but the best time to plan your yacht trip is between December and April. During this time, the weather is mostly dry, and the winds are good for sailing. Try to avoid the hurricane season from June to November when the weather can be unpredictable.
Packing the right items is really important for a yachting adventure. You should bring things like lightweight and breathable clothing, swimwear, sun hats, sunglasses, and strong sunblock to protect against the sun. Also, packing seasickness medication if you’re prone to motion sickness, waterproof bags to keep your electronics safe, and sandals or water shoes for beach activities are all good ideas.
Safety should always be a priority. Make sure your yacht has all the necessary safety gear, including life jackets, fire extinguishers, flares, and a first-aid kit. It’s also important to have a communication device that works offshore, such as a satellite phone or VHF radio, especially if you are on a bareboat charter.
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