St Thomas Bareboat Sailing Charters for US Island Adventures

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A cruise ship sails during a vibrant sunset over the Caribbean Sea near Grenada.
Credit: pexels.com, A cruise ship sails during a vibrant sunset over the Caribbean Sea near Grenada.

St Thomas bareboat sailing charters offer a unique and exciting way to explore the US Virgin Islands. You can choose from a variety of boats, ranging from 35 to 60 feet in length.

With a bareboat charter, you'll have the freedom to set your own itinerary and sail to the islands at your own pace. The US Virgin Islands are a popular destination for sailors, with crystal-clear waters and stunning scenery.

The island of St Thomas is a great place to start your sailing adventure, with its vibrant harbor and charming town of Charlotte Amalie. You can stock up on supplies and gear at one of the many local marinas.

St Thomas is also a great base for exploring the surrounding islands, including St John and Jost Van Dyke. With a bareboat charter, you can create your own itinerary and make the most of your time in the US Virgin Islands.

Bareboat Charters

Credit: youtube.com, Bareboat Charters in St. Thomas

You're considering a bareboat sailing charter in St Thomas, and you're wondering what it's all about. A bareboat charter is the most common type of sailing charter, where you reserve a boat from a charter company and navigate it on your own.

You'll have a range of boat options to choose from, including sailing monohulls, catamarans, motor yachts, pontoon boats, and bowriders. To ensure your safety, you must have a level of sailing experience to reserve a bareboat charter.

The charter company will help you select a vessel and may even offer full or partial provisioning. They can also give you a briefing on local must-visit attractions and provide a tutorial on boat equipment.

You'll get to pick your vacation location and decide on the places to go and the amount of time to spend there. However, remember that you must know how to sail and have local knowledge to handle safety issues.

Here are some boat options you can expect to find:

  • Sailing monohulls
  • Catamarans
  • Motor yachts
  • Pontoon boats
  • Bowriders

Destination Options

Credit: youtube.com, ST THOMAS BOAT RENTAL OPTIONS.mov

The US Virgin Islands are a top sailing destination, particularly around St Thomas and St John. You can access these islands easily through US airports, making it a great starting point for your Caribbean sailing holiday.

St Thomas and St John offer a wealth of sailing opportunities, including a visit to the Virgin Islands National Park on St John. It's just 22 nautical miles sailing from St Thomas to the eastern end of Tortola, but don't try to do it in one day - there's too much to experience along the way!

If you're a US citizen, you don't need to carry a passport to sail in the USVI, making it a convenient option.

USVI vs British Islands: Best Sailing Destination?

If you're looking for a more laid-back sailing experience, the USVI might be the way to go. You'll find quieter, more natural destinations that are perfect for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle.

Credit: youtube.com, 5 islands in 5 nights in the British Virgin Islands

The USVI is also great for new sailors or those who prefer shorter sailing distances. Plus, as a US citizen, you won't need to carry a passport, which is a definite plus.

On the other hand, if you're an experienced sailor looking for a world-class sailing destination, the BVI is the better choice. You'll find iconic sailing locations and a vibrant social scene that's hard to beat.

The BVI is perfect for sailors who crave variety and are looking for a more dynamic experience.

Sailing the US Islands

Sailing the US Virgin Islands is a dream come true for many sailors. The islands are awe-inspiring natural beauty, with crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush green hills, and white sandy beaches.

The best time to sail in the USVI is from December to March, with ideal sailing conditions including clear skies, calm seas, and a constant northeast trade wind.

If you're looking for a more affordable and less crowded time of year, the shoulder seasons (May, June, and November) can be a great option. Temperatures remain warm, but humidity increases, and there may be occasional rain.

Credit: youtube.com, 213. Top Destinations in the BVI’s | Sailing Sunday

The USVI is easily accessible from many major cities around the world, with one transfer or direct flights to St. Thomas. The islands have well-developed infrastructure, including marinas, grocery stores, and repair facilities.

Here are some popular sailing itineraries to consider:

  • 14 days sailing itinerary around Saint Thomas, which includes stops at popular destinations such as Cruz Bay, Great Harbour, and Soper's Hole.
  • 5-day sailing itinerary from Saint Thomas to Puerto Rico, which includes stops at Culebra, Fajardo, and Ceiba.
  • Day-by-day sailing itineraries, such as the one from Coral Bay to Christmas Cove (Great St. James Island) and from Christmas Cove to Buck Island.

These itineraries offer a mix of relaxation, adventure, and exploration, ensuring an unforgettable experience on the stunning USVI waters.

Island Information

St. Thomas is a US Virgin Island located in the Caribbean Sea, approximately 40 miles east of Puerto Rico. The island is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters.

The island's capital, Charlotte Amalie, is a popular destination for sailors, with a well-developed marina and plenty of amenities. St. Thomas is also home to several stunning beaches, including Magens Bay Beach and Trunk Bay.

Sailing around St. Thomas offers a unique experience, with scenic views of the island's rugged coastline and surrounding waters.

Trunk Bay

Trunk Bay is a must-visit destination for any beach lover. It's known for its underwater snorkeling trail, where you can explore the marine life without even getting wet.

Credit: youtube.com, Getting to Trunk Bay from St Thomas (2019)

The snorkeling trail at Trunk Bay is a unique feature that sets it apart from other beaches. It's a 0.45 hour sail from Honeymoon Beach, making it a great stop on your itinerary.

You can spend the day snorkeling and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of Trunk Bay. It's a great way to relax and enjoy the peaceful nature of the island.

Trunk Bay is a great spot to stop for the day, but if you're sailing, you'll want to keep moving to make the most of your time on the water.

Francis Bay Coral Bay

Francis Bay is a peaceful spot to anchor for the night, located 6 km (4 nm) from Honeymoon Beach.

The sailing time to Francis Bay is approximately 0.45 hours.

You can enjoy snorkeling at Trunk Bay, known for its underwater snorkeling trail and pristine beach, before arriving at Francis Bay.

From Francis Bay, you can sail 20 km (12 nm) to Coral Bay, a less developed area of St. John.

In Coral Bay, you can snorkel at Salt Pond Bay or visit the nearby Ram Head Trail for panoramic views.

The sailing time to Coral Bay from Francis Bay is approximately 1.5 – 2 hours.

Island Information

Scenic aerial view of St Thomas coastline with green mountains, clear blue sea, and fluffy clouds.
Credit: pexels.com, Scenic aerial view of St Thomas coastline with green mountains, clear blue sea, and fluffy clouds.

The US Virgin Islands are a sailor's paradise, with crystal-clear waters and coral reefs teeming with marine life.

Christmas Cove is one of the most popular snorkeling spots in the USVI, located on Great St. James Island.

The sailing distance from Coral Bay to Christmas Cove is 20 km (13 nm), and the sailing time is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours.

If you're planning to visit Christmas Cove, be sure to stop by the famous Pizza Pi floating pizzeria for a fresh pizza.

Buck Island is a vibrant coral reef and a great spot for snorkeling, with sea turtles and tropical fish to discover.

The sailing distance from Christmas Cove to Buck Island is 8 km (5 nm), and the sailing time is approximately 0.45 hours.

Fort Segarra, a World War II fort, is located on Water Island and is worth a visit if you stop there on your way to St. Thomas.

The sailing distance from Buck Island to St. Thomas is 15 km (9 nm), with a sailing time of approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.

Sailing Itineraries

Credit: youtube.com, Bareboat Charter Briefing in British Virgin Islands ⎟Voyage Charters

St. Thomas offers a variety of sailing itineraries, each with its own unique charm and attractions.

You can sail around the island to explore secluded beaches and coves, such as Magens Bay and Secret Harbor.

A popular route is the Buck Island Reef National Monument, a protected marine sanctuary and snorkeler's paradise.

The island's northern shore offers a more laid-back experience, with fewer boats and a chance to really connect with nature.

US Island Sailing Tour

The US Island Sailing Tour is a must-do for any sailing enthusiast. It's a chance to explore the beautiful waters of the US Virgin Islands, a US territory in the Caribbean.

Fly into Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas, which is a short drive east to Compass Point marina. This is a great starting point for your sailing adventure.

The USVI is home to three main islands: St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. Each island has its own unique charm and attractions.

A sailboat named Klatawa sails past a historic lighthouse in Valletta, Malta.
Credit: pexels.com, A sailboat named Klatawa sails past a historic lighthouse in Valletta, Malta.

The Virgin Islands National Park covers more than half of St. John's land area, making it a haven for nature lovers and sailors. This park is a must-visit for anyone interested in the island's natural environment and cultural history.

Coral Bay at the eastern end of St. John is a big harbor popular with cruisers, offering plenty of anchorage space. This is a great spot to relax and unwind after a day of sailing.

If you're sailing south to St. Croix, head for Christiansted, which is a great base for exploring the island's fascinating history. Be sure to check the sailing restrictions for St. Croix, as they may vary depending on your experience.

The British Virgin Islands are also a must-visit on your US Island Sailing Tour. With stunning locations just a couple of hours' sailing away, you'll have plenty of opportunities to explore and enjoy the beautiful waters of the Caribbean.

Sailing Itinerary Around Saint Martin

Credit: youtube.com, Enjoy a sailing adventure in St. Martin | Dream Yacht Charter

Saint Martin is a popular sailing destination in the Caribbean, and for good reason. It's got a beautiful coastline, crystal-clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere.

The sailing distance between Fajardo and Puerto Mosquito (Vieques) is 44.90 km (27.90 nm), which is a great way to start your sailing trip.

Sailing from Puerto Mosquito to Ensenada Honda Bay (Culebra) covers 41.90 km (26.03 nm), a perfect distance for a day of exploring.

Elephant Bay (Saint Thomas) is a beautiful spot to anchor for the night, with a sailing distance of 35.05 km (21.78 nm) from Ensenada Honda Bay.

Saint James Bay (Saint Thomas) is another lovely spot, with a short sailing distance of 15.80 km (9.82 nm) from Elephant Bay.

If you're looking for a short sailing day, Saint James Bay to Cruz Bay (Saint John) is only 4.90 km (3.05 nm).

A sailing day from Great Harbour (Jost van Dyke) to Deadman’s Bay (Peter Island) covers 28.10 km (17.46 nm), which is a great way to experience the island's coastline.

Credit: youtube.com, CATAMARAN Around ST MAARTEN - SAINT MARTIN Island | Sailing | Day Cruise | SXM CHARTERS | Caribbean

Deadman’s Bay to Great Dog Island is a 18.41 km (11.44 nm) sailing day, offering stunning views of the surrounding waters.

Prickly Pear Island is a great spot to anchor for the night, with a sailing distance of 10.15 km (6.31 nm) from Great Dog Island.

Sailing from Prickly Pear Island to Soper’s Hole (Tortola) covers 39.35 km (24.45 nm), a great way to explore the island's coastline.

A sailing day from Saga Haven (Saint Thomas) to Culebrita covers 41.70 km (25.91 nm), offering stunning views of the surrounding waters.

Palomino Island is a beautiful spot to anchor for the night, with a sailing distance of 38.75 km (24.08 nm) from Culebrita.

The final sailing day from Palomino Island to Fajardo covers 9.60 km (5.96 nm), a great way to end your sailing trip.

Yacht Information

A typical St. Thomas bareboat sailing charter yacht is 36 to 50 feet in length.

These yachts usually have three to four cabins, accommodating 6 to 8 people.

Credit: youtube.com, ST THOMAS YACHT CHARTER | AN AMERICAN FAVORITE

They often come equipped with a 2 to 4 burner stove, refrigerator, and freezer, making meal preparation and storage a breeze.

Their sail plans can include a main sail, jib, and sometimes a spinnaker, allowing for a range of sailing experiences.

Many of these yachts also have a dinghy on board for exploring secluded coves and beaches.

Fleet Marina

Our fleet is conveniently located at Compass Point Marina on the East End of St Thomas, making it easy to access some of the best sailing in the world.

The marina is a great base for exploring the surrounding waters, and our team is familiar with the local area, including the best restaurants, shops, and hiking trails.

All of our beautiful boats are available for charter year-round, even during the off-season, so you can enjoy the sailing experience whenever you want.

Our team has extensive experience sailing in these waters and can share their knowledge with you, helping you make the most of your charter.

Curious to learn more? Check out: El Ray Charter Yacht

Yachts 46-50 Feet

Credit: youtube.com, This yacht is a work of art in wood. Tour the Spirit 50CR long distance cruising yacht

Yachts 46-50 Feet are a great size for a group of friends or family, offering ample space for everyone to relax and have fun.

The typical layout for this size yacht includes 4 Queen and 1 Double Bunk, providing comfortable sleeping arrangements for up to 7 people.

You'll also find 5 Electric Heads, which is a convenient feature for a group of people, especially on a multi-day trip.

Some yachts in this size range come with a Skipper's Quarters, which is a nice perk for the captain or anyone who wants some extra space.

The staterooms on a 46-50 foot yacht can range from 4 to 5, depending on the layout, and each stateroom typically has its own Head for added convenience.

The Master Suite on these yachts is often spacious and comes with a large Bathroom, making it a great retreat for those who want some extra luxury.

Best Time and Reasons

The best time to embark on a St. Thomas bareboat sailing charter is from December to June, when the weather is calm and the seas are generally flat. This period is ideal for navigating the island's crystal-clear waters.

Credit: youtube.com, USVI travel by water, Best anchorages in saint Thomas

During this time, you can expect average temperatures in the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit, making it perfect for outdoor activities like sailing and snorkeling. The warm weather also allows for comfortable nights on deck, taking in the breathtaking views of the island.

December to June is also the peak season for sailing in St. Thomas, with average wind speeds of 10-15 knots, making it easier to navigate the waters.

Best Month to Sail US Islands

The best month to sail the US Virgin Islands is December, hands down. This is the driest and sunniest time of year, with average temperatures ranging from 24-28°C.

A constant northeast trade wind provides ideal sailing conditions, typically blowing at 10-15 knots. Clear skies and calm seas make December a perfect time to set sail.

If you're looking for a more affordable and less crowded time of year, consider the shoulder seasons: May, June, and November. Temperatures remain warm, but humidity increases, and there may be occasional rain.

Credit: youtube.com, What is the best month to go to the Virgin Islands?

The trade winds are still present during these months, but may be slightly lighter, averaging around 10 knots. Seas are generally calm, with occasional swells.

Avoid the wet season, which runs from July to October, if you can. This is hurricane season, and the seas can be rougher due to stronger winds and swells.

5 Reasons Why the US Virgin Islands Is Good

The US Virgin Islands is a sailor's paradise, and for good reason. It's a top sailing destination in itself, particularly around the two northern islands of St Thomas and St John.

The islands' natural beauty is awe-inspiring, with crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush green hills, and white sandy beaches. Sailing through this picturesque archipelago is a visual treat.

You'll find numerous sheltered bays, coves, and harbors that provide safe anchorage and protection from strong currents and waves. This makes sailing suitable for sailors of all experience levels.

The waters surrounding the USVI are teeming with diverse marine life, including colorful fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles. Snorkeling and diving opportunities enhance the sailing experience.

Credit: youtube.com, Best Time To Visit or Travel to St. Thomas, Virgin Islands

Here are the top 5 reasons why the US Virgin Islands is a great place to sail:

  1. The islands' natural beauty is awe-inspiring, with crystal-clear turquoise waters, lush green hills, and white sandy beaches.
  2. It offers numerous sheltered bays, coves, and harbors that provide safe anchorage and protection from strong currents and waves.
  3. The waters surrounding the USVI are teeming with diverse marine life, including colorful fish, coral reefs, and sea turtles.
  4. Easily accessible from many major cities around the world, with 1 transfer or direct flights to St. Thomas.
  5. The USVI offers a unique blend of Caribbean and American cultures with a vibrant mix of music, food, and festivals.

The USVI is also easily accessible, with flights to St. Thomas available from many major cities around the world. And with a well-developed infrastructure, including marinas, grocery stores, and repair facilities, you'll have everything you need to make your sailing experience comfortable and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to charter a boat in St. Thomas?

Costs for chartering a boat in St. Thomas range from $150 to $500 per hour, varying by boat size and style. Chartering a boat in St. Thomas can be a luxurious and exciting experience.

What is the difference between bareboat charter and skipper charter?

The main difference between bareboat and skipper charters is that bareboat charters save you money by not requiring a daily skipper fee, while skipper charters offer a more hands-off experience with a professional captain at the helm.

Louis Becker

Senior Writer

Louis Becker is a seasoned writer with a deep passion for maritime transportation. His insightful articles have shed light on the complexities and challenges of global shipping, offering readers a comprehensive understanding of the industry's dynamics. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to accuracy, Becker has established himself as a trusted voice in maritime journalism.

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