Yacht charter in the Caribbean

Yacht charters in the Caribbean is a popular way to explore the beautiful islets and crystal-clear tides of this tropical paradise. The Caribbean is home to many world-renowned sailing locations, including the British Virgin Islands, the Grenadines, the Windward Islands and the Leeward Islands. These areas offer various sailing experiences, from calm and peaceful anchorages to exhilarating downwind runs.

Planning the perfect yacht charter

Regarding yacht charters in the Caribbean, there are a few things to consider. The first is the type of yacht you would like to charter. Many types of yachts are available, including monohull, catamaran, and motorboat options. Monohulls are the traditional type of sailboat and are known for their speed and traditional sailing experience. The catamaran is becoming increasingly sought after in the Caribbean due to its spaciousness and stability. Motorboat yachts are ideal for those who want to explore the Caribbean in style and luxury.

The Caribbean has a wide variety of ports, allowing you to choose from many great marinas close to popular sailing vacation destinations. Globesailor has incredible fleets of sailboats, catamarans, motorboats and luxury yachts to offer you for rental. Our boats range in length, size and year of manufacture, as well as the number of cabins to accommodate your preferences. Choose the boat of your dreams, which fits the needs of you and your guests and spend a week or two cruising around famous locations such as Antigua, Bahamas, Grenada and the Grenadines. 

You can also choose between renting a bareboat yacht charter and hiring a skipper and crew. When you choose our crewed option for a yacht charter, it can be a great choice if you don't have much sailing knowledge but still want the independence of chartering a yacht. Your skipper is like the ship's captain; they take care of the navigation, and the hostess/cook ensures that your week's vacation is at the luxury level. Your hired crew will have their own private cabins, meaning there's plenty of space on your boat for everyone!

The next thing to consider is the size of the yacht. Yachts come in various sizes, from small day sailors to large luxury yachts. The yacht size will depend on the number of guests in your group and the type of sailing experience you are looking for. 

When planning a yacht rental holiday, you also need to decide on the length of your charter. Globesailor charters can range from a week to several weeks. A week-long charter is great for those who want to explore the Caribbean in-depth and experience the many different islands and cultures.

Once you have decided on the type of yacht, the size, the length of the charter, and the cost, it's time to start planning your itinerary. The Caribbean is home to many world-renowned sailing destinations, so it is important to research the different islands and anchorages. Some beloved locations include the British Virgin Islands, the Grenadines, and the Leeward Islands. Each of these regions offers something unique and special, so it is important to find a destination that suits your interests and preferences.

When planning your itinerary, it is important to consider the time of year. The Caribbean has two main seasons: the high season and the low season. The high season is from December to April and is the most popular time to visit due to the warm weather and calm seas. The low season is from June to November and is less popular due to the threat of hurricanes.

Three Reasons to Charter a Yacht in the Caribbean

1. Caribbean Climate

Caribbean destinations such as the British Virgin Islands boast close-to-perfect sailing conditions, with crystal clear water, consistent trade winds from the northeast at 10 to 25 knots, and more than enough islands to choose from; what destination could be better for a yacht charter? If you choose to sail outside of hurricane season (June 1st – November 30th), the Caribbean climate should be well suited to you and your yacht, providing you with your exquisite charter in an exceptional destination.

2. Tropical Beaches

The sparkling, white sand beaches of the Caribbean archipelago are a real utopia. Each island is home to a unique stretch of powdery sand with a distinct appeal. World-famous beaches such as Grace Bay Beach, Providenciales and Shoal Bay East, Anguilla, offer a variety of beach bars and quiet, secluded spots to laze under the shade of the palms. With so many hidden coves only accessible by boat, cruising in a yacht is undeniably the best way to explore every enchanted corner of this Caribbean paradise.

3. Diving and Snorkeling Haven

Renting yourself a boat and bringing on board your snorkeling and diving gear will be an experience to remember! The Caribbean islands are home to countless breathtaking dive sites – notably the 90 sites in Bonaire National Marine Park, which boast magnificent corals and diverse ecosystems, home to turtles and thousands of fish species. Snorkeling gear is often included in your yacht charter price, so try out something new and explore the magical marine life beneath the waves!

Top Island Attractions

The Caribbean archipelago is too vast to narrow down into a checklist of places to visit. With such a rich colonial history which has shaped the tradition and lifestyle of each island, you can drop anchor at any harbour and be sure to discover a completely new and exciting culture. From the famous Havana, home to countless museums and stories of Cuba’s revolutionary struggles to the lesser-known Schottegat Harbour in Curaçao, where you can moor for a little adventure through the charming, colourful streets of colonial Willemstad. Whatever way you wish to spend your free time, there is no shortage of extraordinary places to visit. Just hop back on your yacht and sail to another island to find a new adventure!

We Recommend:

Antigua: Sailing in Antigua offers an opportunity to explore the Caribbean Sea and the many islands that make up this beautiful archipelago. Antigua is known for its clear waters, white sandy beaches, and consistent trade winds, making it an ideal destination for sailing enthusiasts.  Visitors can sail around the island, stopping to swim, snorkel in the crystal clear ocean, and anchor in secluded bays for a peaceful night under the stars. There are also a number of marinas and ports where sailors can dock and take a break from the sea. Antigua has several popular spots for sailing, such as English Harbour, Jolly Harbour, and Deep Bay. These spots offer calm waters for cruising and a fastaic view of the surrounding coastlines.

The Bahamas: Cruising in the Bahamas is an opportunity to explore the many islands that make up this tropical paradise. A sailing holiday in the Bahamas is a famous vacation option, as the islands offer clear waters, beautiful beaches, and various activities. Some popular activities include swimming, snorkeling, diving, and fishing. Some favoured destinations in the Bahamas for sailing include Nassau, Exuma, and the Abacos. It is recommended to do some research and book in advance to ensure availability and the best price.

The Windward Islands: The Windward Islands are the southern and eastern islands of the Lesser Antilles and include islands such as Martinique, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. The islands are known for their vibrant green landscapes, breathtaking beaches and crystal clear waters, making them ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling and scuba diving.

The Leeward Islands: The Leeward Islands are the northern and western islands of the Lesser Antilles, and include islands such as Antigua and Barbuda, Anguilla, and the British and U.S. Virgin Islands. The Leeward Islands are known for their luxury resorts and high-end amenities, as well as their duty-free shopping and world-class dining.

It's worth noting that some of the Windward and Leeward Islands are part of independent countries while others are British and US territories, so it's important to check the visa and travel requirements before planning your trip.

The British Virgin Islands are one of our favourite sailing spots! If you choose to opt for a yacht or catamaran charter here, we can recommend several unmissable experiences:

1. Tortola - The largest island in the BVI, Tortola is a great starting point for any sailing adventure. The island has a number of bays and coves that are perfect for anchoring and exploring. Tortola is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, such as Cane Garden Bay, Smuggler's Cove, and Long Bay Beach, which are perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The island's lush vegetation and rugged terrain provide a picturesque backdrop for hiking and exploring, with popular trails like the Sage Mountain National Park and Mount Healthy National Park. Guests can also immerse themselves in Tortola's rich history and culture through visits to places like the Virgin Islands Folk Museum, the Callwood Rum Distillery, and the historic Fort Recovery.

2. Virgin Gorda - Known for its stunning beaches and unique rock formations, Virgin Gorda, is a must-see destination for any sailing trip to the BVI. While on the island, you must visit the famous virgin Gorda baths! Moor your yacht off the coast and explore these huge volcanic boulders, which are a popular attraction not just in the British Virgin Islands but for sailors and tourists throughout the Caribbean! This geological marvel, with its hidden rock pools scattered across the golden sandy beach, creates a beautiful and dramatic landscape which is not to be missed.

3. Jost Van Dyke - This small island is home to some of the BVI's most popular beach bars and restaurants, including the famous Soggy Dollar Bar.

4. Anegada - The only coral island in the BVI, Anegada is a unique destination that is synonymous with its white sandy beaches and striking blue waters.

5. Peter Island - This private islet is home to the luxurious Peter Island Resort & Spa. The relaxing spot is great for a day trip or overnight stay.

6. Cooper Island - This small island is home to some of the BVI's best snorkeling spots and the popular Cooper Island Beach Club.

7. Salt Island - If you navigate in the direction of Salt Island, you can discover the remains of the RMS Rhône. In 1867, a hurricane caused the ship to crash off the island's coast and sink. Now the remains have become a popular Caribbean wreck dive site, so make sure to pack your diving and snorkel equipment on board your yacht and set sail for this extraordinary attraction. (Note: Snorkel gear may be included in your charter price!)

8. Norman Island - They say the uninhabited island was the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's "Treasure Island" and is home to some of the BVI's best diving and snorkeling spots.

Bareboat VS Crewed Charter

Choosing between a bareboat charter and a crew charter for your week on the water can be difficult. Both options make for a unique experience.

For a bareboat charter, this means that you will have no crew aboard the boat. You will be the ship's captain, overseeing all the details and deciding where to go. A bareboat charter is recommended for guests with sailing experience. In many places, a license is needed to charter a yacht without a professional skipper. Your yacht will be equipped with kitchen appliances for those who wish to show off their chef skills to the other guests. 

With a crewed charter, different options are available for you to choose from. A skipper is like the captain of the boat; they will sail the ship and ensure that guests get to their destination safely. Skippers are usually very knowledgeable and can also recommend guest activities, routes and itineraries.

In addition, you can also hire a hostess or a cook for your yacht charter.  A hostess prepares two meals daily (usually breakfast and lunch) aboard the ship; they also take care of the upkeep of the communal areas (tidying up etc.). A chef will prepare all three meals for guests to eat aboard the ship. Choosing between a hostess and a cook comes down to personal preference, if you would like to discover Caribbean restaurants when you moor in the evening, a hostess is a good option. But if you wish to dine aboard your private boat each evening, a chef might suit you better! When you hire a crew, your yacht rental vacation is focused putting you feet up and relaxing, as all the details of your trip are taken care of on your behalf. The price to hire different crew members can vary, so please contact your booking advisor for more details. 

Caribbean Cuisine

The flavours of the Caribbean islands are diverse and never lacking in flavour! Moor your boat at the Cienfuegos marina and sip on the best ‘Cuba Libre’ cocktail (the original rum and coke) of your life, or sample the traditional Cuban ‘Maduras’ (fried, sweet, island-grown plantain). Or venture to the Bahamas, a haven for seafood lovers, where you can taste the locally caught conch prepared in various succulent dishes. Why not read some reviews from the local restaurants and bring the boat guests to the perfect spot for dinner? The cuisine of the Caribbean archipelago encompasses distinct and exciting flavours with different traditions from island to island, so make the most of your yacht charter and sail between these sublime hubs of culture! We implore you to try some of the best traditional cuisines and leave some reviews of your own!

Sailing Conditions and Climate in the Caribbean

The sailing conditions in the Caribbean can vary depending on the season and location, but here are some general characteristics:
Trade winds: The Caribbean is known for its easterly trade winds, which blow from the east to the west. These winds are reliable and consistent, making for excellent sailing conditions. They tend to be strongest from December to May (high season), and weaker from June to November (low season).

Waves and swells: The Caribbean Sea is generally calm, but there can be waves and swells depending on the weather conditions. The windward (eastern) side of islands tend to have rougher seas, while the leeward (western) side is usually more protected.

Tides and currents: Tides and currents in the Caribbean are generally mild, but can be stronger in certain areas. The trade winds are at their strongest from July to October. 

Weather: The Caribbean has a tropical climate, with warm temperatures year-round. 

The high season from December to April is considered the best time to visit. The weather is generally sunny and dry during the high season, with warm temperatures and low humidity. 

The summer months from July to October are the low season in the Caribbean and tend to be the hottest and most humid, with a higher chance of rainfall and the possibility of hurricanes.

Choosing the perfect boat to rent

Regarding yacht rental, the options can seem overwhelming! At GlobeSailor, we have boats of all shapes and sizes for you to rent. Our yachts range in length, cabins, boat model, when they were built, add-ons such as a dinghy or water sports equipment, and of course, price.

Your choice of cabins will vary depending on the sailboat or catamaran you choose. Usually, cabins will be single or doubles, meaning they can accommodate one or two people. There are also double cabins for individual use available on some boats, which is a cabin option for one guest who wishes to have more space aboard the yacht.

We offer guests a choice between a sailboat, catamaran, power boat, luxury yacht, gulet or even houseboat! The choices are endless! 

Most guests choose either a sailboat or a catamaran to rent. Both boats have unique characteristics to satisfy the varying needs of clients. 

A monohull or a sailboat is a traditional boat with one hull (mono!). It is focused on performance and offers sailors the traditional sailing experience. Many sailors like the traditional feel of a monohull. A monohull might be best for you if you fancy yourself a true captain of the seas! 

Catamarans have more than one hull. The multihull of a catamaran offers its guests more stability as it the boat is equipped to rock less against the ocean waves. A catamaran is also more spacious than a monohull. Catamarans usually range from 30 feet to 60 feet, with the average length being around 45 feet. Catamarans have less heeling (tilting) than monohulls, providing passengers a more comfortable and stable ride. Catamarans also have a shallower draft, which means they can sail in waters with a low tide and get closer to shore.

How long should my vacation be?

Usually, most rental companies offer a week or two week long charter, from Saturday to Saturday, for clients. However, different charters lengths do exist! Depending on the length of the trip, the boat model popularity, whether it is high or low season, charters of different time lengths can be arranged. Some charters offered by companies begin on a midweek day, such as Wednesday, rather than the traditional starting day of Saturday. It should be noted that varying charter lengths will result in a varying price. For all details, please read the individual information under each rental option on our website, or contact us, and a booking advisor will be happy to help you find the perfect trip.

How to reach the Caribbean

The Caribbean Islands have more than 50 international airports between them, many of which also offer internal flights, so travelling to your yacht charter base will be easy.

• British Virgin Islands: Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, located on Beef Island - just off the main island of Tortola.
• Guadeloupe: Pointe-à-Pitre International Airport, located in Abymes on the island of Grande-Terre, Guadeloupe.
• Martinique: Martinique Aimé Césaire International Airport, located in Le Lamentin in the capital Fort-de-France.
• Saint Martin: Princess Juliana International Airport, Saint Martin.

Renting a yacht charter in the Caribbean is the ultimate vacation experience. Not only will you have the freedom to explore some of the most beautiful and exotic locations in the world, but you will also have the luxury of doing so in style and comfort.

A yacht charter also offers the ultimate in privacy and exclusivity. You'll have your own private oasis to enjoy with your friends and family, away from the crowds and the hustle and bustle of traditional vacation destinations. Plus, you can customize your itinerary to suit your interests and preferences, whether island hopping, diving, fishing, or simply relaxing in secluded coves.

Book now with GlobeSailor and help us maximise your sailing trip in the Caribbean this year! We are sure you will love this charter adventure on one of our crewed or bareboat yachts, catamaran or even motorboats. With 15 years of experience and over 15,153 customer reviews, we strive to offer you a terrific price and an unforgettable vacation.