Private Crewed Charters in the Virgin Islands: Guide
- Kayla Anderson
- Dec 19, 2025
- 15 min read
Updated: Dec 22, 2025
Private crewed charters in the Virgin Islands offer a luxurious, all-inclusive way to explore the Caribbean. With a dedicated captain, chef, and crew, you’ll enjoy personalized itineraries, gourmet meals, and resort-like service - all while relaxing on a private yacht. Here’s what you need to know:
What’s Included: All meals, drinks, water sports gear, fuel, and fees are covered. The crew handles navigation, mooring, and logistics.
Top Destinations: Highlights include The Baths on Virgin Gorda, snorkeling at Norman Island, and beach bars on Jost Van Dyke.
Yacht Options: Choose motor yachts for speed, sailing yachts for a classic experience, or catamarans for stability and spaciousness. Prices start at $3,200/day.
Best Time to Go: December to April offers ideal weather, while shoulder seasons (April-June, November) are less crowded.
This type of travel combines privacy, flexibility, and high-end service, making it perfect for families, couples, or groups seeking an unforgettable Caribbean getaway.
Sailing St. John - Crewed Yacht Charter
Why Choose Private Crewed Charters
Private crewed charters offer an unparalleled way to travel, combining luxury, convenience, and adventure. With a dedicated crew managing every detail - from navigation to gourmet dining - you can focus entirely on relaxation and exploring your dream destinations.
All-Inclusive Services
One of the standout perks of a private crewed charter is its all-inclusive nature. Imagine having every expense covered: daily gourmet meals prepared by an onboard chef, a fully stocked open bar with premium drinks, fuel for both the yacht and tender, water sports equipment like paddleboards and snorkeling gear, and even mooring fees. Everything is bundled into one package, meaning no need to track expenses, shop for supplies, or worry about running out of essentials. It’s luxury travel made effortless.
Professional Crews
The crew’s expertise truly elevates the entire experience. Licensed captains bring not just technical skills but also insider knowledge of hidden coves, secluded snorkeling spots, and the best local attractions. They handle everything from safety protocols and weather monitoring to customs paperwork for destinations like the U.S. and British Virgin Islands. Meanwhile, trained chefs craft multi-course meals tailored to your preferences, often using fresh, local ingredients. Industry experts often emphasize that the quality of the crew can make or break a charter experience, as their attentive service and seamless coordination ensure every moment runs smoothly.
Privacy and Exclusivity
A private crewed charter guarantees complete privacy and exclusivity. The entire yacht is reserved solely for your group, offering a level of luxury and flexibility that cruise ships simply can’t match. Whether you’re planning a family reunion, a romantic celebration, or a corporate retreat, this option is perfect for those seeking a personal and intimate experience. Your crew has separate living quarters, ensuring you have the freedom to shape your days exactly as you like - whether that’s lounging in a serene cove for hours or hopping between vibrant island beaches.
Feature | Private Crewed Charter | Skippered Charter | Bareboat Charter |
Crew | Captain, chef, and additional staff | Captain only | No crew |
Service Level | Gourmet meals, bar service, housekeeping, concierge planning | Navigation and local guidance only | Self-managed |
Inclusions | All-inclusive (meals, bar, fuel, toys, fees) | Yacht + skipper fee; provisions and fuel extra | Yacht only; all extras separate |
Guest Effort | Minimal - focus on relaxation | Some work: provisioning, cooking, cleaning | Full responsibility for all operations |
Experience Required | None | None | Extensive sailing experience required |
Top Virgin Islands Destinations for Crewed Charters
The Virgin Islands are a sailor’s paradise, offering short sailing distances and calm, sheltered waters that make island-hopping a breeze. With most island passages taking just 1–2 hours, exploring the region’s over 60 islands and cays - spanning the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) - is both convenient and rewarding. Each island has its own personality, blending stunning natural scenery with luxurious touches.
Tortola and Virgin Gorda
Tortola, the largest island in the BVI, is the go-to hub for charters, thanks to its well-equipped marinas and easy access to neighboring islands. Favorite anchorages like Cane Garden Bay and Brewers Bay on the north shore boast long sandy beaches, calm waters perfect for swimming, and lively beach bars. To protect the fragile reefs, moorings are generally used instead of anchoring.
Virgin Gorda is a must-see, especially for its famous Baths - a breathtaking collection of granite boulders creating grottoes and tide pools. Yachts typically moor offshore, and guests are transferred by tender to explore the marked trail through the boulders to Devil’s Bay. Depending on the crowd, this adventure can take 1–3 hours. The crew often coordinates timing and snorkeling activities in the crystal-clear channels teeming with reef fish. On the island’s northern side, North Sound offers a protected area ideal for water sports like kitesurfing and foiling. It’s also a great spot for exploring hidden coves by dinghy, with the crew handling transfers to nearby beach clubs or secluded spots.
Heading to the southern BVI, you’ll find islands known for their lively beach vibes and adventurous activities.
Jost Van Dyke is famous for White Bay, where yachts anchor just off the pristine white-sand beaches lined with buzzing beach bars. The Soggy Dollar Bar, credited with popularizing the Painkiller cocktail, is a major highlight. Guests can swim or take a tender ashore to relax on the beach, enjoying a laid-back afternoon before returning to the yacht for sunset. Great Harbour, nearby, offers more sheltered moorings and waterfront dining options, making it a great spot to wind down after a day of beach fun. A typical day here includes a light morning sail, anchoring around midday, a leisurely lunch (onboard or ashore), and an afternoon of beach time and bar-hopping, all while the captain keeps an eye on the weather.
Norman Island is perfect for snorkeling enthusiasts. The island’s western caves are a favorite, where crews guide guests by tender or kayak into partially submerged caves teeming with colorful reef fish - best explored between late morning and mid-afternoon. For those seeking more adventure, The Indians, a cluster of rocky islets, offer dramatic shallow reef snorkeling. Most yachts anchor overnight in The Bight, a large, protected bay with secure moorings. It’s a great spot to enjoy water toys in the late afternoon before heading ashore for dinner or drinks.
St. Thomas and St. John
St. Thomas is the main entry point for USVI charters, with Charlotte Amalie serving as a historic and bustling hub. The town is known for its colonial architecture, harbor views, and duty-free shopping. Waterfront bars and restaurants in Charlotte Amalie and the Yacht Haven area provide a lively nightlife scene, often arranged by your crew for a memorable final dinner before or after your charter. While St. Thomas is primarily used for arrivals and provisioning, itineraries usually transition quickly to quieter bays.
St. John, on the other hand, is a haven of untouched beauty, with much of the island preserved as part of the Virgin Islands National Park. Many bays feature park-managed moorings to protect coral reefs and seagrass beds, and crews often plan ahead to secure these spots. Signature locations like Trunk Bay and Maho Bay are known for their crystal-clear waters, sea turtles, and underwater snorkeling trails, perfect for guided snorkeling or paddleboarding. Beyond the water, hiking trails from various beaches lead to historic sugar plantation ruins and lush, forested ridges. St. John offers a peaceful escape, focusing on quiet anchorages, non-motorized water sports, wildlife encounters, and stargazing - a tranquil contrast to the more vibrant experiences elsewhere in the Virgin Islands.
Yacht Types and LuxcharterYacht Fleet Options
When planning a Virgin Islands charter, picking the right yacht depends on your group's size, preferences, and travel style. LuxcharterYacht boasts a fleet of over 50 luxury yachts, offering motor yachts, sailing yachts, and catamarans - each delivering a distinct experience on the water.
Motor Yachts, Sailing Yachts, and Catamarans
Motor yachts are all about speed and luxury. These sleek vessels cruise at 20–25 knots, making them perfect for island-hopping in style. Ranging from 80 to 150 feet, they can host 8–12 guests in 4–6 cabins. Ideal for those who want to maximize their time exploring, motor yachts often feature jacuzzis, multiple sundecks, and spacious interiors. Starting at $8,000 per day, they offer a high-end experience at a premium price.
Sailing yachts provide a more classic, wind-powered adventure. These yachts, spanning 50–100 feet, accommodate 6–10 guests in 3–5 cabins. Powered by the trade winds, they’re a quieter and more environmentally friendly option. Perfect for couples or small groups who appreciate the art of sailing, they do come with one consideration: the natural tilt (or "heel") when under sail. Daily rates for sailing yachts start at $4,500, making them a great choice for those seeking a serene and authentic connection to the sea.
Catamarans are a favorite for Virgin Islands charters, thanks to their twin-hull design, which offers incredible stability and minimal heeling. With their shallow draft (around 4–5 feet), catamarans can anchor close to secluded beaches and hidden bays. These yachts, ranging from 40 to 80 feet, comfortably host 8–14 guests in 4–7 cabins, many of which include private en-suite bathrooms. Catamarans also provide spacious living areas, including large salons, flybridge lounges, and dual outdoor spaces. Starting at $3,200 per day, they are an excellent choice for families or larger groups prioritizing comfort and room to relax.
No matter your choice, all options come with LuxcharterYacht’s renowned service and attention to detail.
LuxcharterYacht Pricing and Features
Your yacht choice will naturally influence your budget, but LuxcharterYacht offers flexible packages to suit various trip lengths and preferences.
Day Charter: Starting at $2,500, this package includes 8 hours on the water with a professional crew, fuel, refreshments, and safety equipment - ideal for exploring a single destination.
Weekend Charter: For $6,800, enjoy 2–3 days aboard with added perks like a private chef, all meals, premium beverages, and water sports gear such as paddleboards and snorkeling equipment.
Weekly Charter: At $18,500, this 7-day package delivers the ultimate Virgin Islands experience. It includes a full crew, gourmet dining, a premium bar, comprehensive water sports provisions, and 24/7 concierge service to customize your itinerary.
Each package ensures a professional crew with expert local knowledge to guarantee a safe and unforgettable journey. For those looking to maximize value, the weekly charter often works out to about 20% less per day compared to shorter bookings.
Pricing can vary based on yacht size, season (with higher rates during peak winter months), and specific features. For example, luxury catamarans equipped with advanced stabilization systems or solar panels tend to command higher prices. Similarly, larger motor yachts may operate on a plus-expenses model, requiring an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) of 25–40% on top of the base rate to cover fuel, food, and other extras.
Sample Itineraries for Virgin Islands Crewed Charters
LuxcharterYacht offers expertly planned itineraries tailored to your schedule and interests. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or a week-long adventure, their crewed charters provide 1–3 hour sailing passages, giving you more time to enjoy the water and explore the islands.
3-Day Weekend Charter
A 3-day weekend from Tortola is perfect for hitting the highlights without feeling rushed.
Day 1: Depart from Road Town or Nanny Cay and sail for 1–2 hours to Jost Van Dyke. Spend the afternoon at White Bay swimming, relaxing on the beach, and visiting the famous Soggy Dollar Bar. Wrap up the day with sunset cocktails and dinner aboard your yacht.
Day 2: Start your morning with breakfast before heading to Great Harbour or Sandy Spit for snorkeling and paddleboarding. In the afternoon, enjoy a 2–3 hour sail to Norman Island, where you can snorkel at The Caves or The Indians, known for their crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. End the day with dinner on board or at a local beach bar.
Day 3: Begin the final day with a sunrise swim at Norman Island, followed by brunch at sea. Sail back to Tortola in the late morning, arriving in time for a mid-afternoon disembarkation. With sailing limited to 2–3 hours per day, you'll have plenty of time for water sports and beachside relaxation.
7-Day Full Virgin Islands Experience
A 7-day charter offers the chance to explore both the U.S. and British Virgin Islands in one seamless journey.
Day 1: Embark in St. Thomas and sail to Christmas Cove or Lindbergh Bay.
Day 2: Head to St. John, visiting Caneel Bay or Maho Bay for snorkeling in pristine national park waters and scenic beach walks.
Day 3: Clear into the BVI and sail to Tortola (Soper's Hole or West End) for shopping, provisioning, and dinner ashore.
Day 4: Make your way to Norman Island to snorkel at The Caves and The Indians, followed by a peaceful overnight stay in The Bight.
Day 5: Visit Cooper Island or Peter Island to enjoy more beaches and water sports.
Day 6: Explore Virgin Gorda's The Baths, famous for its stunning boulders and grottoes, then sail to North Sound for a relaxing evening near luxury marinas and resorts.
Day 7: Return via Tortola to St. Thomas, timing your arrival to match your flight schedule.
This itinerary blends natural beauty (snorkeling reefs, national park bays, white-sand beaches) with local experiences (beach bars, shops, live music) and culinary variety, including chef-prepared meals on board and a few dinners ashore featuring fresh Caribbean cuisine.
Custom Multi-Island Trip
For a personalized experience, custom itineraries begin with a pre-charter consultation. Share your travel dates, budget, group preferences, and must-see spots - whether it's "more snorkeling, less sailing", "a visit to The Baths", or "avoiding crowded areas." Based on your input, LuxcharterYacht's captain drafts a route outlining daily sailing legs, anchorages, and activities, taking into account customs procedures, weather conditions, and sailing distances.
You'll have the opportunity to review the plan, highlight priority stops, and suggest changes. Once finalized, the crew creates a flexible day-by-day itinerary. Adjustments can still be made during the trip based on sea conditions or your feedback, but the overall structure - key destinations, sailing times, and special experiences - remains intact.
This collaborative approach ensures you’ll visit your must-see locations while leaving room for spontaneous moments that make crewed charters truly special. With seamless sailing, exciting activities, and gourmet dining, every detail is designed to create an unforgettable journey.
Onboard Activities and Amenities
The magic of a Virgin Islands charter goes beyond the planned itineraries. Onboard activities and amenities add an extra layer of enjoyment to your experience.
Water Sports and Adventure
Crewed charters come packed with water sports gear, all included in the rate. Most yachts ensure snorkel sets for every guest, complete with a mask, fins, and snorkel. You'll also find options like stand-up paddleboards, single and tandem kayaks, and light-tackle fishing gear for casual anglers. The crew takes care of all the setup and safety instructions, leaving you free to dive straight into the fun.
For thrill-seekers, many yachts offer advanced toys such as wakeboards, water skis, kneeboards, towable tubes, sea scooters, e-foils, and even inflatable water parks. If scuba diving is on your wish list, some yachts provide onboard diving options or partner with local dive operators to explore spots like the RMS Rhone or the Caves at Norman Island. With the crew's local expertise, you'll be guided to the best snorkeling reefs, fishing spots, and secluded coves. Whether you're new to paddleboarding or an experienced diver, activities are tailored to your skill level, with the crew offering hands-on guidance when needed.
And when you're ready to take a break from the water, the luxurious onboard spaces are perfect for unwinding.
Relaxation and Gourmet Dining
Relaxation is a priority on a crewed yacht. Catamarans feature spacious foredeck trampolines and cushioned sun pads, perfect for soaking up the Caribbean sun. Meanwhile, motor yachts often boast multiple exterior decks, shaded lounges, flybridges with panoramic views, and even Jacuzzis. Whether you prefer a shaded cockpit or an open-air sundeck, the crew will set up linens and refreshments in your favorite spot.
Gourmet dining is another highlight of the experience. A professional chef uses your detailed preference sheet to create personalized menus that cater to every dietary need - whether gluten-free, vegan, pescatarian, or kid-friendly. Meals typically include a freshly prepared breakfast, a light al fresco lunch, afternoon snacks, and a multi-course gourmet dinner. The open bar is stocked with house wines, beers, popular spirits, and signature cocktails like rum punch, painkillers, and margaritas.
Some yachts go the extra mile by offering wellness experiences, such as sunrise yoga on the foredeck or arranging for massage therapists to visit while you're anchored. Entertainment options abound, with streaming services, Bluetooth sound systems, and classic board games, turning your yacht into a floating resort that blends adventure with relaxation.
Best Time to Charter and Booking Tips
Peak Season and Weather Considerations
If you're planning a Virgin Islands charter, December through April is the sweet spot. During these months, the weather is dry, with temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80°F, and the seas are calm - perfect for sailing and anchoring. The steady trade winds, blowing at 10–20 knots, add a pleasant breeze without creating rough conditions. This period also aligns with U.S. winter holidays and school breaks, making it a great time to escape the cold.
The shoulder seasons - late April to June and November to mid-December - are also worth considering. You'll still enjoy great weather, fewer crowds, and slightly lower rates. However, you might experience higher humidity and occasional rain showers. Keep in mind that hurricane season runs from June through November, with the highest risk from August to October. While the lower prices during this time can be tempting, it's smart to stay flexible, invest in comprehensive travel insurance, and prepare for potential itinerary adjustments. With these seasonal factors in mind, timing your trip carefully can make all the difference.
Booking Tips and Budget Planning
For popular weeks like Christmas, New Year's, and spring break, plan to book 9–12 months in advance to secure the best yachts and crews [6,12]. For standard winter dates, aim for a 6–9 month lead time, while shoulder season bookings can often be arranged 3–6 months ahead [12,15]. Start by reaching out to a charter specialist - such as the concierge team at LuxcharterYacht - to discuss your preferences. Once you've chosen your yacht, you can place a temporary hold and confirm your reservation with a deposit, which is typically 25–50% of the charter fee.
When budgeting, remember to include the base charter rate and a 15–20% crew gratuity. For example, on a $20,000 weekly charter, you should set aside $3,000–$4,000 in cash for the crew gratuity [3,7]. Most charters are all-inclusive, covering fuel, meals, a stocked bar, and water sports gear. However, premium wines, top-shelf spirits, specialty foods, and shoreside dining are usually extra. It's important to clarify with your operator what is included, especially when it comes to fuel limits, park fees, and customs charges for crossing between the U.S. and British Virgin Islands. A little planning upfront ensures there are no surprises along the way.
Conclusion
Booking a private crewed charter in the Virgin Islands combines convenience, expert service, and the freedom to craft your perfect itinerary. With a dedicated captain and chef managing every detail, you can explore a variety of islands - from iconic BVI hotspots to secluded national park coves - all within one seamless trip. Whether you opt for the speed and luxury of a motor yacht, the timeless appeal of a sailing yacht, or the spacious comfort of a catamaran, there’s a vessel to suit your group size, travel preferences, and onboard priorities. This unique blend of privacy and tailored service defines the crewed charter experience.
LuxcharterYacht offers a fleet of over 50 luxury yachts, paired with personalized concierge planning to cater to every traveler’s needs. Their charters - available for a day, a weekend, or an entire week - are designed with U.S. travelers in mind and start at competitive rates. Each package includes the yacht, a professional crew, chef-prepared meals, a selection of drinks, and water-sports equipment, providing a clear and predictable vacation cost while eliminating unexpected expenses.
The itineraries are tailored to maximize both relaxation and adventure, whether you’re planning a short getaway, a week-long loop, or a custom island-hopping journey. LuxcharterYacht’s team works closely with you to craft an itinerary that matches your preferred destinations, pace, and activities. Their expertise ensures a stress-free experience, offering advice on the best travel windows, yacht options, and budget considerations - helping both first-time and seasoned guests avoid common mistakes.
For U.S. travelers, easy flights to the U.S. Virgin Islands, warm tropical weather during the North American winter, and the convenience of planning and paying in U.S. dollars make crewed charters an inviting and practical vacation choice. They deliver the comfort of a cruise but with unmatched privacy and flexibility, creating an unforgettable travel experience.
FAQs
How do I choose between a motor yacht, sailing yacht, or catamaran for my charter in the Virgin Islands?
When choosing the perfect vessel for your Virgin Islands charter, it's all about what matters most to you. Motor yachts are the go-to option if you're after luxury, speed, and ultimate comfort - perfect for exploring multiple destinations in less time. Prefer a more tranquil and classic experience? Sailing yachts let you embrace the charm of traditional sailing. For families or groups, catamarans are a fantastic choice, offering extra stability, plenty of space, and easy access to water activities like snorkeling or paddleboarding.
What makes private crewed charters in the Virgin Islands more private and flexible than traditional cruises?
Private crewed charters in the Virgin Islands offer a level of privacy and flexibility that’s hard to match. Unlike traditional cruises, there’s no need to navigate crowded decks or stick to rigid schedules. Instead, you’re in control, crafting an itinerary that takes you to the places you want to explore, all at your own pace.
These charters provide more than just transportation - they deliver an experience. You’ll have access to breathtaking destinations, enjoy the personalized attention of a professional crew, and shape your trip entirely around your preferences. Whether you’re dreaming of hidden beaches, chef-prepared meals tailored to your tastes, or water activities on your own terms, a private charter transforms your vacation into a truly personalized escape.
What factors influence the cost of a private crewed yacht charter in the Virgin Islands?
The price of a private crewed yacht charter in the Virgin Islands varies based on a few important factors. First, the type and size of the yacht you choose - whether it’s a motor yacht, sailing yacht, or catamaran - plays a big role. Next, the duration of your charter matters, whether it’s for a single day, a weekend getaway, or a week-long adventure. The time of year also impacts pricing, with peak seasons typically commanding higher rates.
Other elements that can affect the cost include your itinerary and destinations and any extras or upgrades you might want. These could range from gourmet dining and water sports gear to spa services. Customizing your trip to suit your preferences can further shape the final price, ensuring a truly tailored experience.
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