Different Types of St. John Power and Sail Boat Charters
When vacationing in the Virgin Islands, getting out on the water is usually one of the best ways to experience the islands. Understanding the differences between the various types of power boat and sail boat charters available on St. John will help you decide which is the best fit for your family vacation.
St. John Charter Boats usually fall into 4 categories:
mixed group charters
private day charters
bareboat charters
term charters
The number of passengers, the duration of the charter, having a captain and crew and of course the cost of the experience are all factors that differentiate the charter boat available to you in the in US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands. Understanding these differences is key in deciding what kind of private or public St. John boat excursion is the best fit for you.
What type of boat charter is best for my family?
Mixed Group Charters on St. John
Mixed group charters usually take place on large catamarans that can accommodate upwards of 40 people or so. Public group charters stick to a set itinerary with a set schedule. Rates tend to be per person and often include drinks or snacks. Because you share this Virgin Island boat excursion with others, this type of charter tends to be the most affordable boating option for the solo or couple traveler.
If a mixed group charter sounds right for you we recommend Kekoa Sailing Charters who provides a unique and high quality sailing excursion, or Bad Kitty and Calypso Charters who has both power boating and sailing options available throughout the U.S. and British Virgin Islands.
Private Day Charters in the USVI and BVI
For those looking for a bit more adventure and freedom while boating, private power boat day charters are the best way to visit top destinations in the US and BVI. Those who book a private day charter get the entire boat to themselves with a St. Johncaptain. The itinerary and schedule are totally customizable, meaning you are in control of where you go and how long you stay. Want to see it all during a fast-paced day with a lot of stops, no problem! Want to stay a little longer to enjoy another cocktail at Soggy Dollar, no problem! If this feels like a good fit for your family check out the trip options Island Roots Charters offers. Their experienced captains will work closely with you to plan your perfect day!
Bareboat Rentals in St. John
Bareboat Rentals are for those who want to be their own captain for the day getting you to the best National Park beaches on St. John. To enjoy bareboating one should be comfortable on the sea with prior boating experience. You have complete flexibility but also responsibility to keep yourself and crew safe. For seasoned boaters looking for rental options we recommend Wharfside Watersports. They have a fleet of dingys and zodiacs you can rent.
Term Charters throughout the US and BVI
Term Charters provide the best luxury, overnight boating experiences. If being rocked to sleep by the gentle waves and waking up on the water sounds dreamy then a term charter is the type of boat charter you want. Term charters can come with or without a captain, crew and chef. For overnight term charters we recommend Dulce Vita Sails, a St. John based, woman-owned and operated company.
Now that you know the differences between the various types of boat charters available, deciding which meets your needs will be easier. The hard part comes next when shopping around for the best outfitter! Choosing the right company can make or break your charter experience so be sure to read up on what to look for when choosing the best St. John charter company for your day on the water!