The Caribbean is one of the most beautiful destinations in the world for a unique, unforgettable vacation. You’ve seen the pictures; white sand beaches, crystal clear blue waters, tropical climate, exceptional diving, snorkeling, and wildlife watching opportunities. On top of the unending natural beauty, there’s a rich history, culture, and cuisine to learn about.
One of the most exhilarating ways to explore some of the 700 Caribbean islands is with a Caribbean luxury yacht charter. With a Caribbean yacht charter, you can experience less popular locations and curate your ideal itinerary. Chartering your own boat in Caribbean waters is an unforgettable way to discover the islands on your schedule.
How to rent a yacht in the Caribbean
There are numerous options for yacht charters in the Caribbean so first decide where you want to start your journey. Consider these questions before booking a Caribbean yacht charter:
- Which Caribbean island has flights from your home country?
- Which are your preferred islands to visit?
- How many people are in your group?
- Will you need a charter yacht with a crew or without one?
- Do you prefer sailing yachts, power yachts, motor yachts or catamarans?
If you know how to charter a boat yourself and have a sailing license you can simply rent the yacht, get some navigation advice, and set off to enjoy some world-class sailing.
Otherwise, you will need to book a boat with a captain and, depending on the size of your yacht, a crew.
Where to start your yacht rental in the Caribbean?
Where you pick up your Caribbean charter depends on whether you want to island-hop or cruise around a specific area. The main areas for cruising in the Caribbean are the Greater Antilles, The Windward Islands, The Bahamas and the Leeward Islands.
The British Virgin Islands are centrally situated in the Caribbean Sea, making them one of the most popular destinations for yacht charters setting sail. The British Virgin Islands consist of 4 main islands, alongside more than 50 other smaller islands and cays; making them an ideal destination for starting your yachting rent.
Further west, in the US Virgin Islands, the port of St Thomas is another busy yachting harbor.
The Grenadines are another popular location to start yacht charters as they are within a half-day sailing from other islands such as Saint Lucia and Barbados.
If you need more info and guidance on the best place to start your yacht charter you can always contact an expert from a reputable rental company such as Goolets. They can provide you with the right information to help craft your ideal itinerary so you can get the most out of your experience.
When to charter a yacht in the Carribean
The high season is from the middle of December until April. Hurricane season is from July, so you probably won’t want to charter yachts during this time. Yacht renting companies, do, however, give significant offers during this time.
The temperature variation in the Caribbean is minimal, remaining warm throughout the year. The steady, strong trade winds the region experiences make the islands in the south a little more predictable weather-wise. The north islands and the Bahamas can get a little cooler from April.
Most of the rainfall in the region is between May and October, however, it is very dependent on the island.
How much does it cost to charter a yacht?
The rate of a charter completely depends on how luxury the experience you are looking for, whether your yacht is crewed or you are sailing yourself. Prices for 10 people on a private yacht usually start at 2,200 USD per person for a week and can go up to as much as 10,000 USD per person per week and higher.
The price of chartering a yacht doesn’t normally include food so you need to organize this beforehand. Prices also depend on how many guests you are bringing on board. The minimum number of people you can have is usually 8-10. You can also rent super yachts in the Caribbean which sleep up to 38 people.
Wherever you take to the water on your rented yacht in the Caribbean, it will undoubtedly be one of the most memorable vacations of your life.
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Liza says
I thoroughly enjoyed your information on chartering a yacht in the Caribbean. Our yacht Aquanimity charters out of St. Thomas Charlotte Amalie and allow our guests to dip in the yacht haven grande pool (should they want to, and there is enough time before or after the charter). There is nothing like sailing on a catamaran with friends while exploring the Caribbean.