yachts in the caribbean

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766  Crewed Luxury Yachts for Charter in the Caribbean

• Caribbean Yacht Charter

A Caribbean yachting vacation incorporates vast expanses of crystalline waters and endless clusters of idyllic paradisical islands, making for a picture-perfect family getaway. With its beautiful climate and spectacular coastlines that comprise iconic superyacht hotspots like the  Virgin Islands ,  St Barts  and  Antigua , a yacht rental in the Caribbean has an alluringly evergreen appeal.

Caribbean Yacht Booking Guide:

Caribbean Yacht Charters: At a Glance

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The Caribbean Sea comprises more than 7,000 islands, islets, reefs and cays, and is divided into three island arcs: that of the Greater Antilles in the north, the Lesser Antilles in the south, and the Leeward Antilles to the east.

• Ideal winter destination Boasting all-year-round pleasant weather, its powdery sand beaches and alluringly clear waters make it an especially popular choice for winter yacht charters.
• Easy-to-reach The Caribbean is well-connected to the US, with a high number of international airports flying directly into the region.
• Secluded anchorages With more than 7,000 islands and only a small percentage being inhabited, the world is your oyster when it comes to finding serenely beautiful anchorages.
• Snorkeling and diving paradise The Caribbean is home to some of the world's most impressive snorkeling and diving sites, meaning plenty of exciting underwater adventures where your eyes will be wide with wonder.
• Excellent superyacht marinas The Caribbean has numerous well-provisioned superyacht marinas to take your pick from, many of which have fantastic dining and shopping opportunities.

While the Bahamas is technically part of the Caribbean region, it is an island nation in its own right, forming part of the Lucayan Archipelago in the Atlantic. That said, the Caribbean is a vast area occupied by thousands of islands, coral reefs and islets, of which the Bahamas forms a part, along with strong political and cultural ties that have created a natural bond with its Caribbean neighbour. 

Practically speaking, however, if you are interested in cruising  the Bahamas  in conjunction with your Caribbean yacht charter, it is highly unlikely you'll be able to manage the distance during a typical 7-day charter, especially for itineraries that incorporate East Caribbean destinations such as Antigua and Saint Martin. You will need to decide which destination you prefer to spend your time in, or extend your charter vacation to incorporate both. 

To find out more about chartering in the region, check out our in-depth Bahamas destination guide for more information.

The most popular destinations for renting a yacht in the Caribbean are those located in the Lesser Antilles region, primarily the island groups of the Leeward Islands.  and the  Windward Islands .

For Leeward Island yacht rentals , Antigua, the Virgin Islands, St Martin, St Barts and St Kitts and Nevis garner the most attention, thanks to not only their splendid tropical landscapes but also their extremely well-provisioned superyacht marinas, fine dining options, impossibly hip bars and medley of designer boutiques bound to keep guests entertained from dawn till dusk.

Scattered like pearls along the aquamarine seas, you'll find sun-drenched Martinique, gorgeous Grenada and the ultra-secluded St Vincent and the Grenadines  are the top picks for slow-paced  Windward Island yacht charters .

Although not as popular, the islands that form the Greater Antilles , such as Jamaica, Cuba and Puerto Rico , are just as beautiful and offer an array of spectacular destinations to explore and discover on a luxury yacht charter.

Looking for the best superyacht hotspots in the Caribbean? These are the spellbinding locations guests find most enticing. If you are interested in any of these cruising grounds, we strongly advise booking as far in advance as possible.

• Antigua: the jet-set adore its unbelievable scenery, intriguing historical landmarks, lavish shopping options and a cluster of ivory-white sands coupled with gin-clear waters.
• St Martin/Sint Maarten : French and Dutch sides of the island combine to bring a fascinating fusion of influences, replete with outstanding diving spots and awe-inspiring topography. 
• St Lucia : considered the tropical jewel of the Windward Islands, it's virtually unspoiled. Bordered by lush rainforest and dark volcanic sands, it makes for a truly unique anchorage spot. 
• Grenada : known as the Isle of Spice thanks to being one of the world's largest exporters of mace and nutmeg, its capital St George is regularly called the Caribbean's most picture-perfect town. 
• St Barts : Well-known for its moniker "St Moritz of the Caribbean" due to its unique Swedish-French colonial heritage, this iconic tiny island is synonymous with glamour, movie stars and designer shopping. 
• St Croix, US Virgin Islands : The largest of the USVIs boasts a National Park, breath-taking scenic beauty and some of the best dive spots in the Caribbean.
• Puerto Rico : Affectionately known locally as the ‘island of enchantment’, Puerto Rico is a profusion of vibrant Latin culture entwined with the laid back rhythm of the Caribbean, with pristine beaches, excellent diving spots and exquisite local dishes.

A yacht rental vacation in the Caribbean delights guests with its truly endless number of things to see and do. Here are our top picks:

Don't Miss:

• Eden Rock St. Barts : one of the most in-demand hotels in the Caribbean, with a seven-star bar and spa.
• Hermitage Bay, Antigua : kick back and relax on this tropical beach that delivers on sensational views.
• Bagatelle, St. Barts : overlooking the glittering Gustavia harbor, this sophisticated bar and restaurant is a hugely popular superyacht spot, showcasing the finest of French-Caribbean cuisine.
• Basil's Bar, Mustique : legendary bar and restaurant designed by Philippe Starck, frequented by royals, supermodels and rockstars for decades.
• The Cotton House, Mustique : a wellness center unsurpassed in beauty.
• Watermelon Cay, St John, US Virgin Island s: dreamy islet surrounded by coral reefs and a veritable snorkeling wonderland
• Rhone Marine Park, British Virgin Islands : the wreck of the RMS Rhone is the BVIs' most popular dive site, and arguably one of the best in the Caribbean.
• Trunk Bay, St John, US Virgin Islands : all dazzling white sand lapped by the bluer-than-blue ocean, this island paradise ranks consistently among the world’s top 10 beaches.
• Jardines del Rey archipelago, Cuba : known locally as the ‘King’s Gardens’, this collection of islands is a registered UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and an island-hopper's paradise, offering myriad secluded beaches and sensational sunsets.

For anyone looking to get a dose of serious sunshine during the Northern Hemisphere winter, a yacht charter in the Caribbean is a seriously enticing prospect, with St Barts being the clear favorite for Christmas and New Year's Eve, thanks to the showstopping celebrations that take place in Gustavia Harbour.

For avid island hoppers, the Windward islands offer an enchanting itinerary full of sun-kissed isles and laid back charm juxtaposed with chic resorts and heavenly French-based cuisine, not to mention unrivalled vistas and sultry sunsets accompanied by warm rum-laced winds. 

Across all Caribbean destinations, keen divers and snorkelers will be in for a subaquatic treat, and you'll find a wide range of designer boutiques and ultra-high-end resorts peppered across the isles wherever you go.

The Caribbean is a mesmerizing melting pot of cultures and influences, rooted in its rich heritage and undeniably shaped by its history of colonization and waves of immigration. Each island group is highly diverse in terms of its language, music, customs, architecture and cuisine, but it's mainly English, Dutch, French or Spanish colonial influences that are keenly felt. While the mix of languages spoken will differ between island groups, English is widely spoken.

Caribbean cuisine sees influences from Africa, Europe, Latin America and Spain, Meat, seafood, coconut, potatoes, beans and tomatoes tend to feature heavily in local dishes.

Locals are friendly and regularly celebrate their culture, with music, food and wildly colorful festivals held throughout the year.

A luxury yacht rental vacation in the Caribbean is, without doubt, the most sublime way to experience this region, giving you exclusive access to heavenly anchorages that are otherwise impossible to reach or are far from the typical tourist trail.

Guests have boundless fleet options when it comes to a crewed Caribbean charter. If you don't know whether to go for a motor yacht, sailing yacht or catamaran to cruise Caribbean waters, we've laid out the main points worth considering.

Motor Yacht Charters in the Caribbean

A  luxury motor yacht charter  in the Caribbean is a seven-star way of uncovering the epic beauty of the Caribbean in total privacy. 

For regions with minimal water depth the ideal choice is a motor yacht with low draft, perfect for accessing shallow lagoons and secluded bays.

For those who have their heart set on a superyacht without a shallow draft, dropping anchor further out into deeper waters and then getting a tender ride ashore, so you can get up close and personal to exquisite island reefs and blue lagoons, is the preferred option.

Sailing Yacht Charters in the Caribbean

Chartering a sailing yacht in the Caribbean is ideal for guests looking for a slower pace to fully lap up the Caribbean rays with more outdoor deck space, and add a little old-school charm to their cruising adventure.

Even better, the majority of sailing charter yachts come equipped with a retractable keel, meaning reaching turquoise shallows is a breeze. But, if you are keen to charter a larger sailing yacht, keep in mind that some may still find their draft too deep for some areas, even with the keel up. 

Catamaran Charters in the Caribbean

Luxury catamaran charters are a firm guest favourite for those embarking on Caribbean vacation, especially in the Bahamas and the Virgin Islands. Thanks to their shallow draft, catamarans give you the ability to get close to cays and islets guests can savor the thrilling feeling of being able to jump off-board at almost any point. 

The charter cost of a motor yacht, sailing yacht or luxury catamaran rental in the Caribbean will vary according to the vessel's size, age, type, number of crew, as well as the location and duration of the vacation as well as the season it takes place. 

With so many options available, there’s something to suit every type of budget. For convenience we have listed the average prices for motor yacht and sailing yacht charters in the Caribbean below;

• For motor yacht rentals in the Caribbean, prices can range from $39,167 to $1.4m per week, plus expenses
• For luxury sailing yacht rentals in the Caribbean, prices can go from $29,855 to $276,495 weekly, plus expenses

The best time for luxury yacht charters in the Caribbean is between November and March, when guests can expect clement weather and vividly blue cloudless skies.

Another aspect to keep in mind is that this is also the time when you will have the largest selection of yachts to choose from, as most charter yachts descend on the Caribbean around November after the Mediterranean season has ended and any yacht maintenance has been carried out, before returning back to the Mediterranean in March/April.

The most popular starting point for a Caribbean yacht rental is usually in either Saint Martin/Sint Maarten or  Antigua,  both of which have international airports.

It is certainly possible to begin your charter in other Caribbean destinations, providing this has been agreed with the Owner and charter broker .

Where to End a Caribbean Yacht Charter

For most private Caribbean yacht charters, there isn't one definitive place where to disembark given the vastness of the region. However, what is likely is that you will finish your yacht rental vacation in the same location that you started. For example, the majority of  British Virgin Island yacht charters will begin and end in St Thomas, while for Antigua yacht charters , it'll be the iconic English Harbour.

sample itineraries

The Caribbean offers some of the most spellbinding berthing spots in the world. These tropical, barefoot hotspots are of the finest calibre, surrounded by jaw-dropping scenery, and often feature award-winning restaurants, hip boutiques, beach bars and more.

But which marinas are the best? Below are some charter favorites:

• Falmouth Harbour, Antigua: impressive marina facilities and scenery, catering to yachts up to 100m.
• Marina Fort Louis, Saint Martin: offers 150 berths for yachts up to 79m.
• Crown Bay in St Thomas (USVI): full-serviced marina with 99 slips, including 16 berths for superyachts up to 60m
• Port Louis Marina, Grenada: idyllically located, with 227 moorings for yachts up to 91m.
• Port de Gustavia, Saint Barts: widely regarded as one of the most beautiful natural harbours in the world, accommodating up to 152 yachts up to 152m.
• Puerto Del Rey, Puerto Rico : conveniently located as a jumping off point for yacht charters incorporating the Virgin Islands and Lesser Antilles, this marina has plentiful wet slips, including capacity for yachts up to 200ft (60m) LOA.

We strongly advise booking through a qualified  yacht charter broker at least three months in advance for all Caribbean yacht charters. By doing so, you will increase the likelihood of securing your preferred dates and you will have a greater selection of yachts on offer to choose from.

This also ensures your yacht broker has enough time to craft a carefully curated itinerary and secure an overnight berth in the most popular Caribbean marinas.

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Explore the Caribbean

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The caribbean yacht charter itineraries.

Make every moment count during your superyacht vacation with our carefully curated yacht charter itineraries, tailored so you can experience the very best of the paradisiacal islands of the Caribbean and ensure your yacht charter is a truly memorable one. Designed by yachting experts, we've cultivated itineraries that will satisfy a range of requirements.

For yacht charter guests seeking a little glitz and glamour on their vacation, a 7-day charter around the Leeward Islands is a must, comprising Caribbean gems such as Saint Barthelemy, renowned for its A-list celebrity culture and designer shopping, as well as the perennial favourite Antigua. For sheer unadulterated bliss, incorporate the Virgin Islands on a 14-day yacht charter, promising idyllic stretches of pristine sands lapped by waters in every shade of blue.

Discover the Caribbean

Winter Getaways, Tropical Paradise Islands, Snorkeling & Scuba Diving, Crystal Clear Waters, Beautiful Secluded Anchorages, Well-Provisioned Superyacht Marinas

When to Go:

December - March

International Airports:

• Princess Juliana Airport (St. Maarten)
• V.C. Bird Airport (St. John's, Antigua)
• Luis Muñoz Marín Airport (Carolina, Puerto Rico)
• Grantley Adams Airport (Bridgetown, Barbados)
• Lynden Pindling Airport (Nassau, The Bahamas)

Luxury Yachts for Charter in the Caribbean 2024 & 2025

Crewed charter yachts in the caribbean.

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92m   Neorion

from $1,061,000 p/week ♦︎

115m Lurssen

115m   2021

from $2,787,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Black Pearl 14

105m Oceanco

105m   2018

Christina O 34

99m Canadian Vickers

99m   1943/2020

from $750,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Carinthia VII 12

97m Lurssen

97m   2002/2023

from $1,501,000 p/w eek ♦︎

97m Feadship

97m   2017/2022

from $1,715,000 p/w eek ♦︎

CC-Summer 12

95m Lurssen

from $1,287,000 p/w eek ♦︎

93m Feadship

Aquarius 12

92m Feadship

from $1,500,000 p/w eek

Queen Miri 36

92m Neorion

92m   2004/2023

from $1,061,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Lady Lara 12

91m Lurssen

91m   2015/2023

from $1,400,000 p/w eek

90m Corsair Yachts

90m   2007/2021

from $497,000 p/w eek

90m Oceanco

90m   2018/2024

88m Oceanco

from $1,100,000 p/w eek

88m   2015/2023

Maltese Falcon 12

88m Perini Navi

88m   2006/2023

from $490,000 p/w eek

86m Scheepswerf Gebr. van der Werf

86m   1998/2024

from $531,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Man of Steel 12

86m Oceanco

86m   2010/2023

from $1,000,000 p/w eek

O'Ptasia 12

85m Golden Yachts

85m   2018/2022

from $965,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Victorious 12

85m Ak Yachts

from $855,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Le Ponant 32

84m   1990/2022

from $488,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Savannah 12

83m Feadship

83m   2015/2020

from $1,072,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Alfa Nero 12

81m Oceanco

81m   2007/2021

from $728,000 p/w eek *

Elements 12

80m Yachtley

from $858,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Excellence 12

80m Abeking & Rasmussen

from $1,150,000 p/w eek

Amaryllis 12

78m Abeking & Rasmussen

78m   2011/2022

from $770,000 p/w eek

78m Golden Yachts

78m   2023/2024

from $804,000 p/w eek ♦︎

from $480,000 p/w eek

Stad Amsterdam 28

76m Damen Oranjewerf

76m   2000/2009

from $102,500 p/w eek

Huntress 12

76m Lurssen

from $725,000 p/w eek

75m Admiral Yachts

75m Feadship

from $900,000 p/w eek *

75m Abeking & Rasmussen

from $880,000 p/w eek

from $976,000 p/w eek ♦︎

74m Nobiskrug

74m   2008/2013

from $557,000 p/w eek ♦︎

73m Delta Marine

73m   2006/2015

from $525,000 p/w eek

Nautilus 12

73m Picchiotti

from $803,000 p/w eek ♦︎

73m Lurssen

73m   2006/2020

from $615,000 p/w eek

Quantum of Solace 12

73m Turquoise Yachts

73m   2012/2022

from $574,000 p/w eek

Game Changer 17

72m Damen Yachting

72m   2017/2020

from $450,000 p/w eek

72m   2010/2023

from $600,000 p/w eek

72m Dunya Yachts

72m   2013/2020

from $660,000 p/w eek

Talisman C 12

70m Turquoise Yachts

70m   2011/2020

from $567,000 p/w eek

70m Feadship

from $650,000 p/w eek

Sherakhan 26

70m Vuijk Scheepswerven

70m   2005/2022

from $584,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Sycara V 12

68m Nobiskrug

68m   2010/2017

Wayfinder 12

68m Astilleros Armon

from $375,000 p/w eek

68m Icon Yachts

68m   2010/2020

from $540,000 p/w eek

67m Benetti

from $680,000 p/w eek

67m Shadow Marine

67m   2007/2008

from $120,000 p/w eek

67m Alloy Yachts

67m   2011/2019

from $348,000 p/w eek ♦︎

66m   2014/2023

66m Rossinavi

from $637,000 p/w eek *

Invictus 12

66m Delta Marine

66m   2013/2020

from $650,000 p/w eek *

65m Benetti

Ventum Maris 12

66m   2011/2021

from $530,000 p/w eek

Eternity 17 7 12

65m Codecasa

65m   2010/2022

from $390,000 p/w eek

Illusion 12

65m   2013/2019

from $462,000 p/w eek

Resilience 12

from $641,000 p/w eek ♦︎

Silver Angel 12

65m   2009/2015

from $425,000 p/w eek

64m Benetti

64m   2016/2021

from $475,000 p/w eek

63m Halter Marine

63m   1978/2022

from $350,000 p/w eek *

Lady Britt 12

63m Feadship

from $465,000 p/w eek *

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Caribbean Yacht Charter Q&A

The best time to visit the Caribbean is generally December to April, when it's a little cooler and less humid. But the best month to visit can differ depending on the island, budget and interests you have. For example, some yacht charter guests may decide to visit May to June and late November, when weather is still fantastic but there are fewer crowds.

We advise booking your Caribbean yacht rental at least three months in advance to ensure you get the yacht you desire. The longer you leave it, the fewer choices you will have to rent in the Caribbean.

For your Caribbean superyacht charter, you will need to provide a completed charter agreement and 50% of the charter fee as a deposit. This is payable once the contract has been signed.

When booking a Caribbean yacht rental, do keep in mind the costs that aren't included in the base rate, namely VAT and the APA (Advance Provisioning Allowance). The APA is usually paid in advance of the charter and is commonly set at 30% of the charter fee. This allowance covers expenses such as fuel, berthing, food and drinks, as well as any special requests. 

Please consult your yacht charter broker for any other costs you may need to factor in for your yacht charter in the Caribbean.

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Find Caribbean Crewed Yachts for the Vacation of a Lifetime

The Caribbean is one of the most popular destinations for yacht charters in the world, featuring crystal-blue waters, white-sand beaches, and more than 5,000 islands and cays to explore. With so many islands to choose from, your Caribbean yacht charter itinerary can be tailored to your preferences, giving you the perfect opportunity to island-hop and explore everything the tropical islands have to offer while comfortably kicking back inside luxurious accommodations on the water.

On your private yacht charter , you will be able to explore lively harbors, secluded beaches, tropical rainforests, world-class dive sites, and much more. The possibilities are endless!

Caribbean Yacht Charter Highlights

• More than 5,000 islands and cays to explore
• A great winter destination
• Crystal-clear, sparkling blue waters
• Long stretches of white-sand beaches
• Luxury hotels, five-star restaurants, and spas
• Islands with their own unique cultures and cuisines
• A large selection of crewed yachts for charter

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223.7ft / 67m

Caribbean Yachting Season

The Caribbean high season for yacht charters runs from mid-December to early May, with Christmas and New Year’s the most popular and busiest times of the year. But due to the islands’ locations near the equator, temperatures remain ideal throughout the year, making off-season charters just as enjoyable.

Keep in mind, however, that there is an increased chance for storms and hurricanes during the summer season, mainly from mid-August to mid-November. Most charter yachts leave the area during that time.

Caribbean Crewed Motor Yacht Charters

Remember When

162ft / 48m

Sweet Escape

130ft / 39m

116ft / 34m

Caribbean Catamaran Charters

105ft / 31m

Serenity Now

Caribbean Crewed Sailing Yacht Charters

Area Guide: Caribbean Charter Destinations

Are you ready to explore all that the Caribbean has to offer? There are three main island areas in the Caribbean, all fantastic destinations for Caribbean charter yacht vacations.

The Grenadines

The Grenadines are untouched by mass tourism and industry, and they are the perfect charter destination if you are looking for solitude and you enjoy exploring remote areas. A great combination of lush rain forests and sandy beaches awaits!

This is a great summer charter destination because the islands aren’t usually affected by hurricanes.

The Leeward Islands

Leeward Islands yacht rentals offer the perfect combination of luxury and solitude. You can visit the glitzy islands of St. Maarten and St. Barts one day and get lost in the remoteness and tranquility of Anguilla the next day.

These islands are rich in history and offer great restaurants, upscale resorts, and trendy harbors.

The Virgin Islands

The Virgin Islands are the perfect location for first-time charterers and families because of their calm waters, protected natural anchorages, and short distances between the islands.

The BVI are a great destination for a catamaran or sailing yacht charter. Caribbean locations here have constant yet mild trade winds year round, and the area offers fantastic diving and snorkeling.

Where Can I Charter a Yacht?

When you choose Worldwide Boat as your Caribbean yacht charter broker, we can help you charter a luxury boat anywhere in the Caribbean or anywhere else you’d like to go, from the Mediterranean to Alaska to the Galapagos Islands.

How Do I Book a Private Yacht?

The best Caribbean yacht charters can be booked in just a few easy steps:

• Choose our experienced yacht charter specialists to assist you through the process of booking a yacht.
• Search by destination or by boat, or use our advanced search tool to filter your options by the number of guests, yacht type, destination, and/or your budget.
• Pick the option that best fits your needs and your dream vacation.
• Reserve your yacht by signing a contract with the yacht owner.
• Enjoy your vacation!

How Much Does it Cost to Charter a Yacht in the Caribbean?

Weekly rates for Caribbean boat charters are dependent on a number of factors, including the type of yacht, the season, and your destination. Motor yachts, for example, typically range from $15,000 (yachts up to 80 feet) to $150,000 or more (yachts over 150 feet) per week.

During the Caribbean high season (Christmas, New Year’s, and January/February), yacht charter Caribbean prices tend to increase slightly. Areas with large charter fleets, like St. Martin, tend to have more competitive pricing than areas with smaller fleets.

How Much Does it Cost to Charter a Catamaran in the Caribbean?

Most catamarans offer all-inclusive rates, which start at $10,000 for catamarans under 50 feet and run up to $50,000 or more for catamarans of 80 feet or more. The Caribbean is an ideal destination for a catamaran charter, and across the region, you’ll find a variety of sailing and power cats available for charter.

Ultimately, the cost of a catamaran charter is dependent on the time you visit, where you go, local taxes, and the number of ports you visit. A luxury yacht charter in the Caribbean’s high season (New Year’s or Christmas) will cost significantly more than a catamaran charter in summer.

Can I Rent a Yacht for a Day?

Rates for yacht rentals are usually weekly, but when you talk to a Caribbean yacht charter broker at Worldwide Boat, we can look at your budget, plans, and interests to help you get the best experience possible.

Caribbean Yachting Hotspots

Caribbean sailing charters give you access to white-sand beaches and laid-back island vibes, but they can also offer action-packed itineraries. From island-hopping and hiking to snorkeling and cliff-jumping, adventure awaits on a Caribbean yacht charter!

Some of the region’s must-see destinations include:

• St. Martin : Known for its upscale eateries and amazing cuisine, as well as high-end spas, shopping and casinos, St. Martin is the yachting capital of the Caribbean. This island is part French and part Dutch, and it’s close to islands like St. Barts and Anguilla, making it a favorite jumping-off point for island-hopping adventures.
• St. Barts : St. Barts (sometimes called St. Barths) beckons A-listers to its posh beach clubs, fashionable shops, and five-star eateries. Visitors will find a collection of truly spectacular powdery beaches, Michelin-starred restaurants, and excellent shoreside amenities, all within cruising distance of St. Martin.
• Antigua : Antigua epitomizes the relaxation and bliss of the Caribbean. Known for its 365 beaches (one for every day of the year), the tiny island is a sailor’s dream, offering warm waters, steady winds, safe anchorages, and a lively regatta calendar.
• Grenada : Grenada is revered for its beautiful beaches, abundant marine wildlife, and vibrant cuisine (spiced with local nutmeg, mace, and allspice). Spend a day relaxing on Grand Anse Beach, which is consistently ranked one of the best in the world. Island-hop to neighboring isles like Petite Martinique, or spend a day snorkeling one of Grenada’s famous reefs.
• Anguilla : Anguilla is one of the most tranquil Leeward islands. Escape to Dream Bay or one of the numerous nearby coral cays for some supreme R&R. A diving and snorkeling mecca, Anguilla is home to some of the Caribbean’s best shipwreck dives. Plus, the island boasts a calendar of must-see festivals and events, including a jazz festival in November and Carnival in August.

Why Charter a Yacht in the Caribbean?

The best Caribbean yacht charters offer a bit of everything: Relaxation, sun-soaked beaches, delicious culinary treats, refreshing rum-infused cocktails, and calm waters for cruising. Here are some highlights:

The Inescapable Beauty of White-Sand Beaches

Caribbean beaches have almost a mythical quality to them. It’s no wonder explorers were once willing to board wooden ships and travel thousands of miles just to see them in person.

Every island offers a selection of untouched and charming beaches for you to explore. From one-of-a-kind places like “Pig Beach” in the Bahamas to the cosmopolitan Great Bay Beach in Philipsburg, St. Martin, the beaches across the Caribbean offer legendary sights and attractions.

Colorful Celebrations and Friendly Faces

The Caribbean is known for its parades, bars, nightclubs, and parties, not to mention world-famous cocktails. When you want to step off of your luxury yacht charter, Caribbean shores and islands offer a world of fun to immerse yourself in.

A few must-see events include the St. Barth’s Bucket (if you’re into superyacht racing), the annual Carnival celebration, and the St. Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival .

Amazing Wildlife and Adventure

If snorkeling in vibrant and colorful coral reefs, diving into underwater museums, or parasailing over clear waters are some of the items on your bucket list, you can certainly get it all done during your visit to the Caribbean.

You’ll find a variety of unique adventures, from the underwater sculpture park of the Grenadines to the natural seaside baths in Virgin Gorda and hiking the Pitons in St. Lucia. The Caribbean gives you to plenty of chances to get outside and enjoy yourself.

Nonstop Relaxation

Because the area is so close to the equator, the Caribbean offers warm weather to lounge in all year round. Feel pampered aboard a luxury crewed rental yacht, and then feel calm while sinking your toes into soft, powdery white sand. Enjoy the spas, rum cocktails, and quiet, isolated beaches: Charter guests can experience supreme relaxation in the Caribbean.

Book Your Caribbean Charter With Worldwide Boat

Discover the beauty of the Caribbean with a luxury crewed yacht charter. Contact a broker with Worldwide Boat today to learn more about available yachts and itineraries for the Caribbean.

Last edited by Katja Kukovic

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Find Your Perfect Yacht

Caribbean yacht charters - one resource for every luxury charter yacht

The proven resource for crewed yacht charter in the caribbean.

From the moment you contact us, you will be helped by an experienced and knowledgeable specialist who will take the time to understand your unique needs and preferences for your caribbean vacation. They will be your dedicated specialist and our exceptional personal service will answer every question.

The largest choice of crewed Caribbean yachts?

Absolutely, with our relationships built over decades we truly do have access to EVERY crewed private charter yacht based in, or visiting, every part of the Caribbean.

Whatever the type of yacht for your Caribbean charter, your vacation budget, or the size of your party, our specialists will guide you in choosing the ideal yacht for your Caribbean charter. It's your vacation to explore the islands the very best way possible - on a Caribbean charter yacht.

Browse different types of Charter Yachts in the Caribbean

Motor Yachts

This category of Caribbean yachts include mega yachts, super yachts, and all sizes of power yachts. With the maximum space for guests, both inside and out, these types of yachts offer excellent vacations. You can choose from a fast, agile yacht, one that is high-end and luxurious, a yacht with a classic design, or one that is contemporary. This is one of the many choices you’ll have when you plan your vacation. See some yachts:-

Crewed Catamarans are very popular in the Caribbean , especially in the BVIs. Catamarans offer ample deck space that allows everyone to relax together during their charter, sharing the same views throughout the voyage. Caribbean catamarans can typically accommodate between 6 and 12 guests. See some yachts:-

Sailing Yachts

If you are looking for a winter getaway, there is no better place to charter a sailing yacht than the Caribbean! Feel the warm, tropical breeze on your face. Experience the exhilaration as the wind fills the sails and the yacht is suddenly moved along by just the wind. Savor the magnificent beauty of the Caribbean as you sail silently from one island to the next. Although typically offering smaller spaces for guests, sailboats deliver a truly unique caribbean charter vacations . See some yachts:-

Sample Charter Yachts in the Caribbean

ODYSSEA. The 59' sailing catamaran Odyssea is ready to take you and your guests on your next adventure. Throughout she offers relaxing areas to lounge and enjoy the voyage, while enjoying the company of others or absorbing the serenity of the sea. Her spacious cockpit area offers large dining table, sun pad across the back, and wet bar. See ODYSSEA :-

OKTO. Get ready for adventure when you step on board the 217' mega yacht Okto. You and your guests will find plenty to do, as she offers plentiful spaces for lying out to enjoy the sun, enjoying a movie in the circular cinema, working out in the indoor gym with an amazing view, or enjoying the on deck Jacuzzi. See OKTO :-

NAMASTE. The immaculately maintained mega yacht Namaste offers 121 feet of opulence at sea. She features five well-appointed cabins, both a main salon and sky lounge, sundeck with Jacuzzi, gym equipment, and a long list of watersports including jet skis, wakeboard, fishing gear, and the list goes on. See NAMASTE:-

LIQUID SKY. The 67' sailing catamaran Liquid Sky was launched in 2024 by Fountaine Pajot. With four cabins, she accommodates as many as eight guests, and offers a number of places for you to hang out and enjoy the journey, including on the bow soaking in the in deck Jacuzzi, up on the flybridge taking in the views, or on the aft deck with al fresco dining. See LIQUID SKY:-

MARIAH PRINCESS III. The 77' Lagoon built sailing cat Mariah Princess III was built in 2020. She offers two queen cabins and two king cabins, all en-suite. The master cabin has a private deck, the flybridge offers an on deck Jacuzzi, and she has a generous complement of watersports, including onboard SCUBA. See MARIAH PRINCESS III:-

TRUE STORY. The 67' sailing catamaran True Story is ready to give you and your guests a fun and exciting charter in the beautiful waters of the Caribbean. She offers a spacious main salon, large cockpit with al fresco dining and lounge, and flybridge with conversational area. You and your guests can also enjoy a long list of water toys throughout your journey. See TRUE STORY:-

The British Virgin Islands include Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda, and more. There’s no better way to experience the waters and beaches of the BVI's than on a private Caribbean charter with a full crew to pamper you. Of all the islands in the Caribbean, the Virgins are furthest north. This makes them very convenient due to the proximity to San Juan and due to their direct flights from the United States. Catamaran sailing vacations and crewed sailing charters are very popular in the islands, and their protected waters make them a favorite spot for guests that are taking their first private Caribbean yacht charter. To learn more about them:

The U.S. Virgin Islands consist mainly of the three large islands of St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John. With lovely bays, long beaches, lush nature preserves, fabulous diving spots, and excellent, onshore evening entertainment, many choose to vacation in the USVI’s. Caribbean charters often visit both the BVI’s and USVI’s during the same week, as they are close to one another and the waters are generally calmer than in other parts of the Caribbean. They in general are also home to the largest fleet of crewed, all-inclusive, luxury catamarans. To find out more about them:

The Leewards are situated in the middle of the Caribbean Island chain. The major airports are located on St. Maarten and Antigua. Due to the English, Dutch, and French influences everywhere you look, they exhibit the best example of cultural sophistication anywhere within the Caribbean. If you are looking to see where the rich and famous go on vacation, you will want to visit the island of St. Barts; for many this is a must stop for a Caribbean yacht charter. Many mega yachts are available for rental in St. Maarten, as it has become a popular mega yacht Caribbean base for the winter. To learn more about the Leewards:

The Grenadines are also called The Windward Islands. Oftentimes our guests will choose a sailing charter over a motor yacht when in the Grenadines, due to the more constant tropical breezes that occur. The islands are much less developed than the rest of the Caribbean, and the inhabitants live on their own time schedule, which enhances the feeling of getting away. The northern most island accessible by air is ST. Vincent, while the southern tip’s major airport is on Grenada. There are fewer Caribbean charter yachts based here; however, occasionally some charter yachts are happy to relocate in order to offer a vacation that happens a little off the beaten path. To find out more about the Grenadines:

What Type of Charter Yacht?

There are all types of Caribbean yacht charters available, including mega yachts, power yachts, catamarans, and sailboats. We have helped countless clients choose the right charter yacht, learning what features and amenities make a difference on caribbean charter yachts. Learn more about different types of Caribbean yachts.

Where Can You Go?

Typically you’ll choose between the Virgins, Leewards, and the Grenadines to charter your yacht. Beyond the region, it is your Caribbean to explore. It’s important for you to remember that there is no cruise ship itinerary to worry about! Your itinerary will be custom designed specifically for you, with you, and is flexible to changes during your charter. We have put together some samples for you to get an idea of what you might like to do while on vacation in the Caribbean. Interested in seeing a sample cruise itinerary ?

Find Your Perfect Yacht for a Caribbean yacht charter

To see the Caribbean yachts we have in our online database, please select a yacht type and your budget below. Please keep in mind that we do not have every available yacht online. There are many more yachts available for you to choose from when you contact one of our specialists.

For your personalized selection including yachts not online:- Email us now

Caribbean Charters - When To Go.

One of the lovely things about the Caribbean is that the temperatures remain consistent throughout the year; however, there are some other weather considerations that you will want to factor in when making your caribbean yachting vacation plans. Read More....

Vacations here are most popular between November and July.

If you are thinking of a megayacht, you will want to keep in mind that many of these private yachts which are Caribbean based in winter leave in the late spring and early summer months. They will return again in early winter; however, this does limit their availability. To charter a mega yacht, you will want to make sure that you do so well in advance.

Motor, sail, or catamaran yachts, on the other hand, often have selections available year round. Holidays like Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter do need to be planned for as early as possible as these are very popular charter times.

The availability for Caribbean charters can also be affected by the weather in other climates, for instance, when the severity of the weather is bad in the United States or Europe, especially between January and February, the charters are often booked. This is due to many clients looking for a break from the cold.

What Do Our Clients Say About The Caribbean?

Are you excited yet? You should be! Our clients have enjoyed fantastic Caribbean vacations. There is an endless number of places to visit in the Caribbean, from smaller islands to absolutely must be seen locations like St. Barts. Read some of our Caribbean charter reviews from clients who booked a Caribbean charter with us.

Ready to learn more about Caribbean charters?

We are specialists who will make your trip a reflection of our expertise! We know clients need to be confident in their charter vacation plans, so we encourage our clients to benefit from the knowledge base we’ve been building for years. You’ll speak to an authority on Caribbean charters without any obligation on your end.

Test our expertise with your questions!

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CARIBBEAN YACHT CHARTERS

Caribbean yacht charters, is synonym to tropical paradise and an excellent sailing destination. White sandy beaches, clear waters and palm trees make Caribbean bareboat charter an unforgettable sailing experience. Islands surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean and Caribbean sea, provide numerous destinations.

Rent a Boat in Caribbean: 1281 Available

Oceanis 43 sailboat charter (2009).

Rent a boat Dufour 412 GL (2018) in Guadeloupe

Sailboat Dufour 390 GL (2019) for rent in Guadeloupe

Dufour 425 GL sailboat charter (2012)

Rent a boat Dufour 460 GL (2018) in Guadeloupe

Sailboat Dufour 460 GL (2018) for rent in Guadeloupe

Oceanis 41.1 sailboat charter (2018)

Rent a boat Dufour 412 GL (2018) in Antigua

Sailboat Dufour 390 GL (2019) for rent in Antigua

Caribbean Yacht Charter Reviews with 12knots

Christopher Lavelanet

“12 knots Charter Experience”

I had a great experience with Grigory and 12 knots for my wife and I’s inaugural weeklong bareboat charter leaving out of La Paz, MX back in Jan 2021. We had originally booked a week charter out of Puerto Rico back in April, 2020 which was cancelled …

YACHT CHARTERS

United States

“Antigua bareboat charter”

I chartered a 45' catamaran with friends in Antigua this first week of April 2024 The price was VERY attractive The team at 12 Knots was very responsive about questions and requests Will definitely rebook a boat with 12 knots Special thanks to…

Greg Spalek

“Relied on 12knots' team for 3 of my voyages”

I've relied on this 12knots' team for 3 of my voyages (Mexico, Tahiti and Croatia). Their website is very good to browse and they stand behind their portal. They are always fast to respond to questions/concerns. It is always a pleasure to deal with J…

Mark Etheridge

“We all enjoyed the vacation very much”

Hi Grigory, The boat was in great condition! and it really is a beautiful location. Thanks for all the organizing you’ve done to make the trip a success. Mark

Scott Moser

“I’ve booked a few times through 12 Knots”

I’ve booked a few times through 12 Knots, in Greece and Polynesia, and have had great experiences. Solid customer support… it’s great to have one person I can email anytime with questions!

Oscar Serra

“We tried to make the most of it, but it was far from ideal”

Hey Grigory, thanks for asking. The boat was not in good condition. For example, there were no mooring, deck or motoring lights, so we feared a boat would hit us while we slept, and were not complying with the law while sailing at night. The anchor w…

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Sailing Around Windward and Leeward Islands of the Caribbean

The  Caribbean covers a huge region of widely spread islands 2,000 miles (3,218 km) long.

The larger ones have become sovereign countries with broad range of amenities for sailors, while the smaller ones still preserve its untouched rural charm and tranquility.

From the western tip of Cuba to the Leewards in the east, then south to the top of South America and along Venezuela’s north coast – this chain of islands has created a hook-like shape around the Caribbean Sea. Location like this is always an enticing bait for sailing - perfect climate and  array of diverse cultures, customs, cuisines and experiences, water sports and an unlimited number of other attractions.

Planning sailing vacations in Caribbean, you may wish to consider these groupings of the islands as points of your itinerary, as they contain many popular cruising areas and harbor stops. There is no doubt that in the scope of Caribbean bareboat or skippered yacht charters  both groups have their charms and countless reasons to explore, which definitely makes it a great sailing destination.

Caribbean yacht rentals

12 Knots offers eleven yacht charter bases in the Caribbean region, each with unique individual character, providing sailing experience for everyone, from a novice to an experienced sailor. This region comprises more than 700 hundred islands and islets, so you can choose Caribbean sailing vacations with shot and easy hops or more challenging passages.

Taking Caribbean sailing vacations, you will find warm and steady trade winds in picturesque surroundings; discover plenty of great bars and authentic cuisine!

It’s up to you, choosing between the Leeward Caribbean islands with short and easy hops with line-of-sight sailing and the Windward with more challenging open water passages. Wherever you go, you will return home relaxed, refreshed and ready to start planning your next Caribbean sailing adventure.

The Windward islands

Windward Islands located at the southern end of the Caribbean island chain and stretch for over 300 miles to the south-eastern end of the Caribbean Sea. The Windward Islands are simply called so due to their position as they are exposed to the northeast trade winds. For experienced sailors, it can be right choice to sail among the four main islands: Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Grenada. They lay far apart each other allowing open ocean sailing and while steady easterly trade winds, make passages north or south easy. With constant 12 to 25 knots wind, Caribbean sailing is among best in the world. Night anchorages in peaceful and protected areas give sailors freedom to explore and soak up British and French island culture. The islands of St. Lucia, St. Vincent and Grenada  were British colonies until they gained independence during the 1970s. Martinique is still an overseas department of France.

The climate of the Windward Islands is definitely a marine one.

When tropical heat reaches its peak, steady trade winds and daily sea breezes come to rescue.

Typically, dry and wet seasons go hand in hand here. Although the priority of more rainfalls is given to the eastern side of the islands mainly due to the prevailing north-east trade winds there.

The islands east of Puerto Rico were called “Windward Islands” by the Spanish, while the islands south of Puerto Rico were named as “Leewards “. And Dominica positions itself right on the border line between the Windward and the Leeward Islands.

Long time ago some of the islands used to be French colonies, subsequently gained its name as The French Antilles.

The population of the Windward Islands is mostly of African origin, with some exceptions of Chinese and Caucasians. The present day Windward Islands will welcome tourists with upscale resorts, stunning beaches and pleasant sunny weather.

After cruising through the Windward Islands, you may wish to set sails to the Leeward Islands.

The Leeward islands

The Leeward islands are located on the eastern edge of the Caribbean Sea and form the northeastern boundary between Caribbean and Atlantic Ocean, extending from Puerto Rico to the Windward Islands, forming part of the Lesser Antilles chain.

Although 700 miles long stretch of these magnificent isles mostly constitute the whole body of the Leewards, it provides the abundance of enjoyment: quaint fishing spots, ancient ruins and delicious authentic cuisine.

Blessed with balmy temperatures all around the year, The Leeward Islands are called leeward because they're away from the wind or downwind (in the "lee"). Leeward group of Caribbean islands includes: the U.S. Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands, Anguilla, Saint Martin, Saint-Barthelemy, Saba, Sint Eustatius, Saint Kitts, Nevis, Barbuda, Antiqua, Redonda, Montserrat and Guadeloupe.

One of two "sister islands", St Kitts and Nevis, provides a brilliant Caribbean experience, from their picture-perfect beaches and volcanic mountains to friendly locals and layers of history to explore. For the water sport lovers, there are numerous aquatic activities that include fishing, diving, windsurfing and surfing.

St.Kitts and Nevis

Switch from sailing to inland for a change and St.Kitts and Nevis will deliver the most exceptional hiking in the Caribbean. The dormant volcano of Mount Liamuiga is considered to be the toughest to climb. And with the experienced guide you may even try to descend in its crater!

The unspoiled landscape of dry littoral forest and rainforest will present memorable show of fauna and flora. Many plants are of culinary and medical use, and some even used in black magic, as informative guides would point out its botanical value.

The wild life-lovers will not be disappointed with variety of different types of exotic animals.

Actually, the Great Salt Pond has become famous for its largest habitat of green velvet monkeys.

St. Kitts and Nevis will keep you captivated with majestic view of huge conical shells, remains of old sugar mills, along with some other plantation ruins, built in the 18 th century.

Back to water activities, and tourists will be pleased with what these two island can offer: deep-water fishing, snorkeling, scuba diving and more.

Then in order to satisfy your growing appetite visit two popular restaurants: Carambola and the Shipwreck Bar and Grill to enjoy its delicious local meals.

A yacht charter in the Caribbean Leeward Islands offers sailors an unrivalled remarkable experience. Enjoy tropical landscapes, pristine palm-lined beaches and azure waters — all the joys of marine life.

Sailing over the Leeward Islands may have all the pleasures to offer: the Tropical rainforests, glittering coral reefs, and luxury sand beaches. That’s probably why most of the known tourist resorts on these islands play a critical role in their economy, as do banking and fishing. Many of them also rely on their status as a tax haven to promote offshore financial services as a source of government revenue. But there is much more to discover in the Leeward Islands. These Caribbean islands provide great variety of yachts for charter and pleasant sailing vacations. Most of the Leeward Islands are located close to each other with moderate winds from 10 to 15 knots and rather low wavers. BVI is the most popular area for Caribbean charters either bareboat or luxury crewed vacations. This is the right place for the novice sailor’s easy passages in line-of-sight sailing.

The climate of the Caribbean Leeward Islands can be described as tropical, but much drier than in Windward Islands. Though the climate does vary from island to island and can even be different in different parts of the same island. Rainfall increases with elevation and in more southerly latitudes. In some cases trade winds look like refreshing tonic to the tropical heat. There is minor seasonal variation, although the second half of the year, the wet season, is slightly warmer and rainier. The best time for sailing in the Caribbean may be the first half of the year. At this time the temperatures usually range between 81°F (27°C) and 95°F(35°C). Annual rainfall averages about 40 to 50 inches (1016 to 1270 mm). Keep in mind, that nearly every island had been severely damaged by hurricane activity in its recent history.

English is the most widespread language all around the islands, plus many of the people speak French and Dutch on the St Martin Island. Both English-based and French-based Creole are also spoken. The prevailing currency is The East Caribbean dollar. But St Martin is odd man out again, circulating the Netherlands Antilles guilder in the Dutch area and the Euro in the French region. Nevertheless, the US dollar is widely accepted throughout the islands.

If you eager to take part in sporting activities, then you may be pleased to know that cricket is widely played and followed in the former British territories. Besides, as in the rest of the Caribbean, music is also always a big part of local life. Enjoy the magical sounds of calypso, soca, steelpan, reggae, salsa and jazz — all of the mentioned has their adherents.

During your Caribbean yacht charter, you may wish to participate in some major holiday celebrations, including the St Kitts Christmas, New Year carnaval, the annual music festival, as well as Anguilla’s Emancipation Day and Culturama festival on August 1st.

The culture of the Leeward Islands is varied by different influences, including French, Dutch and West Indian. Due to that sailing around the Leeward Islands provides a wonderful choice of cuisine and some great restaurants to satisfy your affection for the finest dishes. By the way, the island of Anguilla offers true gastronomic feasts. When sailing in the Caribbean Leeward Islands, be sure to try freshly caught lobsters with a glass of wine.

Sailing the Caribbean With 12 Knots

So, while planning a Caribbean charter it is highly recommended to decide on how many islands you would like to visit in a given time frame. Research Caribbean boat rentals and determine which island you would like to have as a starting base. Then you can plan an itinerary for the week or ten days, taking into consideration distances between the islands and activities you would like to have, like island tracking, scuba diving, snorkeling, volcano hiking, or even shopping.

12 Knots team will give you plenty of useful information not only on the bareboat charter in Caribbean, but also itineraries, places of interest and peculiarities of each island.

Taking a yacht charter in the Caribbean is just a perfect combination of sailing and relaxation, authentic culture and a range of water sport activities. In a few words, this area may always offer something for everyone in these amazing islands’ surrounding.

Frequently Asked Questions about yachting in Caribbean

How much does it cost to rent a yacht in caribbean , how many boats are available for rent in caribbean , what are the main yacht charter bases in caribbean , what boats are available for charter in caribbean .

Caribbean yacht charters

• Best time to charter December - April
• Getting there Princess Juliana International Airport and more

Getting there

Caribbean charter bucket list

Caribbean Islands - discover the best by yacht

Party time!

The best Caribbean honeymoon islands

Cruising St Kitts and Nevis

Events in the caribbean.

BVI Spring Regatta

Gourmet Festival

New Year’s Eve

Independence Day Carnival

St Barths Bucket

International rolex cup regatta.

Crucian Christmas Festival

BVI Food Fete

Explore the caribbean.

Caribbean yachts available for charter

This is a small selection of the luxury motor and sailing yachts available to charter in the Caribbean. Please contact your Burgess broker for a personalised selection of Caribbean yachts for charter.

Please enquire

• Length: 96.6m (316.9ft)
• Guests: 12 guests in 7 cabins
• Built: 2017
• Feadship, De Vries Makkum

Rate from USD 497,000† per week

• Length: 90.1m (295.6ft)
• Guests: 12 guests in 6 cabins
• Built: 2007
• Corsair Yachts

Rate from USD 1,100,000† per week

• Length: 88.5m (290.4ft)
• Guests: 12 guests in 8 cabins

MALTESE FALCON

Rate from USD 490,000 per week

• Length: 88m (288.7ft)
• Built: 2006
• Perini Navi

Rate from USD 945,000† per week

• Length: 85.6m (280.8ft)
• Built: 2010
• Derecktor Shipyard

Rate from EUR 550,000 per week

• Length: 81m (265.7ft)
• Built: 2020
• Royal Huisman Shipyard

Rate from USD 1,150,000† per week

• Length: 80m (262.5ft)
• Built: 2019
• Abeking & Rasmussen

Rate from USD 900,000 per week

• Length: 75m (246.1ft)
• Feadship, De Vries

Rate from EUR 910,000† per week

• Length: 74m (242.8ft)

Rate from EUR 520,000† per week

• Length: 73.5m (241.1ft)
• Built: 2008

New to charter?

The Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) is due at the time of the final charter payment. Under MYBA terms, this sum is usually equivalent to 30 per cent of the total charter fee, but may be up to 40 per cent in some cases.

Intended to cover the operating expenses of a charter as explained under Charter Terms, such as fuel, food, drinks, port fees and ad hoc incidentals, the APA will be given to the captain before the start of your charter. The Captain will ensure that the yacht is fully fuelled and provisioned when you step on board. While an up-to-date summary of accounts can be requested at any time during your charter, a full set of accounts will normally be submitted by your captain at the end of the cruise. If, during the charter, the expenditure exceeds the sum already paid, additional cash funds will be required at once.

All outstanding bills from the yacht charter should be settled in cash or by bank transfer before your final disembarkation. Of course, any remaining credit at the end of your charter will be reimbursed to you in full. On request, transfer arrangements to and from the yacht can be made by Burgess or by the yacht’s captain, payment for which will be deducted from your APA.

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Yacht Charter in The Caribbean

Embark on your Caribbean or Bahamas yacht charter and discover sparkling turquoise waters, sweeping sandy beaches and a blissfully laid-back lifestyle. These two archipelagos scattered between the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea are primed with balmy breezes that will kiss your cheeks and swaying palm trees that provide you with shade during a Caribbean or Bahamian yacht charter. Cruise the Caribbean archipelago’s continuous arc of islands from the Grenadines in the south to the stunning Leeward Islands, including St. Kitts, and the Virgin Islands in the north. If you’re keen to cruise further north, the Turks and Caicos or the crystal-clear waters of The Bahamas will welcome you with friendly smiles and warm seas. Whichever Caribbean idyll you choose, these cruising grounds provide a haven for waterborne travelers.

Caribbean Elegance on the Waves: A Yacht Charter Voyage through Island Splendors

Awaken even the dullest of senses during your Caribbean yacht charter. You will delight in discovering the brilliant colors, warmth and easy charm of the Caribbean islands, a mélange of the vibrant cultures that have washed over their shores for centuries. Dutch, French, British, Spanish and North American influences abound, making the islands truly cosmopolitan. Covering a vast area, they offer countless cruising possibilities for your winter or summer yacht charter holiday.

From the alluring Virgin Islands to St.Kitts in the Leeward Islands, the sand-fringed Grenadines or the Turks and Caicos, you have hundreds of islands to choose from offering dramatic scenery, fantastic watersports, world-class cuisine, fascinating history and welcoming locals. The dazzling sands of The Bahamas invite you to enjoy total relaxation year-round. A playground for superyachts, you’ll have to cruise the islands many times to visit all of the 700 islands and cays, which are best explored from the water.

Get in contact with a Caribbean yacht charter broker

Whether you are looking to welcome in the New Year in St. Barths or to rejuvenate in the Exumas, the warm temperatures and steady tradewinds make these varied tropical islands a hotspot for both motor and sailing yachts. Your Northrop & Johnson charter expert will be able to recommend the best itinerary for your preferred activities and help you find the perfect yacht.

Best destinations for a Caribbean yachting vacation

• Yacht Charter US Virgin Islands
• Yacht Charter British Virgin Islands
• Yacht Charter St. Barths
• Yacht Charter Cuba
• Yacht Charter ST. Maarten
• Yacht Charter Barbados
• Yacht Charter Windward Islands
• Yacht Charter Leeward Islands
• Yacht Charter Trinidad & Tobago
• Yacht Charter Turks & Caicos

Why charter a yacht in the Caribbean this winter?

• The year-round tropical climate, sun-drenched days, and warm waters are ideal for swimming.
• Just a few hours from the US with regular international flights & private jet services.
• Crystal-clear waters make the Caribbean an ideal place to make the most of your yacht’s tenders and water toys.
• Exclusive beach clubs, refined resorts, and award-winning restaurants. 
• Superb choice of island destinations to suit all types of desired charter experiences. Cruise the Windward and Leeward Islands or opt for under-the-radar destinations.
• Fantastic diving and superb visibility; dive healthy coral reefs and shipwrecks teeming with colorful marine life.
• Picturesque white sandy beaches fringed by palm trees and lapped by striking azure blue waters; the Caribbean is the ultimate paradisal destination.

Top destinations to Charter a Yacht in the Caribbean

Leeward Islands

If you crave a Caribbean idyll with white-sand beaches, lush rainforests, Caribbean charm and a touch of chic luxury, then a Leeward Islands yacht charter is for you. Both ashore and on the water, these islands offer an exotic concoction of modern panache and relaxation.

St. Maarten

Experience the island’s exceptional beaches, offering fine white sands and bright turquoise waters. Explore St. Maarten by yacht charter and discover find your secluded, private beach paradise.

British Virgin Islands

On a quintessential British Virgin Islands yacht charter, you can expect coral reefs, stunning beaches, incredible land-based activities and natural wonders. With a balmy climate, steady easterly trade winds and an abundance of sheltered anchorages in the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands were made for the waterborne.

US Virgin Islands

Miles of sparkling, sandy beaches, safe waters, unparalleled dive sites and a constant gentle breeze make a US Virgin Islands yacht charter the perfect vacation. From the bustling harbor front of Charlotte Amalie on St Thomas to St. Croix and St. John and many smaller islets and cays, the US Virgin Islands provide some of the most beautiful and well-protected anchorages in the world.

St. Kitts & Nevis

A hidden jewel among the archipelago of the Leeward Islands in the Caribbean, St. Kitts hits the sweet spot in terms of location and amenities for the yachting sector. The island is perfectly positioned for a relaxing few days ashore during a cruise through the Leeward Island chain. Alternatively, combining St. Kitts, and the neighboring island of Nevis, in one itinerary offers a laid-back Caribbean experience that cannot be found on many of the surrounding islands.

Windward Islands

Sprinkled between the volcanic peaks of St. Lucia and Grenada are a trail of palm-studded sandbars, coral reefs and islets known as the Windward Islands. Here you’ll find abundant natural beauty, ample dive sites and some of the best fishing grounds in the world. Experience the Caribbean’s best-kept secret on a luxury yacht charter.

Experience the untapped Caribbean island of St. Lucia aboard a luxury yacht charter and discover UNESCO world heritage sites, pitons, vast forests, unbelievable scuba diving and snorkeling, and some of the world’s finest fishing.

The Grenadines

Your relaxation is imminent among the stunning islands of The Grenadines. From quiet harbors to volcanic vistas, your luxury yacht charter of The Grenadines promises pure paradise and more.

If you’re seeking a Caribbean paradise that is synonymous with complete solitude, look no further than Anguilla. This captivating destination beckons those seeking solace in the Caribbean, and experiencing it during a luxury yacht charter takes this seclusion to new heights. Nestled north of St. Martin, Anguilla’s flat, low-lying terrain sets the stage for a serene getaway.

Renowned for its unrivaled ambiance and picture-perfect beaches, St. Barths exudes an air of flawless elegance. With a wealth of high-end shops, exquisite restaurants and five-star hotels, St. Barths stands as the ultimate playground for the affluent and renowned. Indulge in a holiday like no other with a luxury yacht charter to this bespoke paradise.

Antigua and Barbuda

Embark on a twin island paradise adventure with an Antigua and Barbuda yacht charter. Nestled in the heart of the Leeward Islands, these Caribbean gems offer limitless possibilities for your dream vacation.

Turks & Caicos

While the Turks & Caicos may not be considered a classic Caribbean cruising ground, its 41 islands offer an abundance of attractions for any yacht charter. While these isles are blessed with more than a touch of luxury, they remain, as yet, unspoiled and ready for you to discover.

Trinidad & Tobago

Trinidad and Tobago are a colorful pair of sister islands in the Caribbean that are well known for their rich culture of dance, music and celebrations. Their classic Caribbean atmosphere showcases turquoise waters that lap upon the golden sand and picturesque coconut trees swaying in the balmy breeze.

Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic is renowned for its stunning azure waters, bustling nightlife and charming villages. A luxury yacht charter is the ideal way to experience this classic Caribbean gem that teems with lively music, breathtaking views and ornate architecture. You will be in awe of the effortless mixture of laid-back Caribbean ambiance and rich melting pot of cultures.

Known for its colorful streets, rich history and lively nightlife, Cuba is a destination for the charterer seeking fun, passion and to feel alive. A luxury yacht charter is the perfect way to explore this diverse topography, surrounded by the azure waves of the Caribbean Sea. Feel the warmth of the white sand between your toes and be engulfed by the warm breeze that flows from the lush mountains. The archipelagos dotted around the country make it ideal to be discovered via a luxury yacht charter.

Often considered the most charismatic of the Caribbean islands, discover the gem of the Lesser Antilles with a Barbados yacht charter. Enjoying a seductive climate year-round, it’s all too easy to settle into the soothing rhythm of Bajan life. From white beaches to a rum-infused party scene, Barbados is a truly iconic destination.

ABC Islands

Aruba, Bonaire and Curaçao (ABC Islands) are an idyllic island trio that offers the complete, private Caribbean yacht charter experience without many other visitors.

A Glimpse of The Caribbean

The sunny beaches and friendly locals of The Bahamian islands are ready to welcome you and your guests during a yacht charter any time of the year.

Find yourself sipping Champagne and ringing in the New Year among the glitterati that flock to the stunning French island of St. Barts every winter.

The British Virgin Islands offer it all during your yacht charter. Don the snorkeling gear, visit the famed grottoes Virgin Gorda’s Baths and be sure to down a painkiller from the Soggy Dollar Bar.

If you’re looking for a true escape into nature, St. Lucia’s natural wonders, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites, are sure to delight during your luxury yacht charter.

St. Vincent and 32 islands of the Grenadines are just some of the spectacular spots to visit during your Windward Islands yacht charter where you can relax and truly enjoy the sunshine.

Whether you choose to enjoy one of Antigua’s 365 beaches or discover the dual nation of St. Maarten/Sint Martin, a Leeward Islands yacht charter will never disappoint.

Best Yachts for Charter in the Caribbean

Caribbean yacht charter guide, where to cruise on a caribbean yacht charter.

With thousands of islands to explore in the Caribbean, a luxury yacht charter in the Caribbean is limited only by your imagination. The Caribbean can be largely broken down into four distinct regions: The Bahamas, the Greater Antilles, the Leeward Islands, and the Windward Islands. Each of these regions offers a myriad of opportunities for exploration, adventure, and relaxation. The charter brokers at Northrop & Johnson would be delighted to help you craft an incredible Caribbean yacht charter itinerary that matches your precise needs. Contact our team today. 

Top destinations with Caribbean yacht charters

The picturesque island of St. Lucia offers charterers a tropical paradise to explore. Soak up the sun on white sandy beaches, enjoy a thrilling zip-lining experience through the island’s lush tropical rainforest, wallow in the island’s volcanic mud baths, explore abandoned sugar plantations, or indulge in authentic island cuisine at local award-winning eateries.  

St. Vincent and the Grenadines 

St. Vincent and the Grenadines lie just south of St. Lucia and are part of an archipelago of 32 verdant tropical islands boasting picturesque coastlines peppered with sugar-white sand beaches and lush tropical interiors. Embrace casual glamour and reset to island time. Highlights include eco-tours of the island’s rainforest, swimming under tropical waterfalls, and the Old Hegg Turtle Sanctuary on the island of Bequia. 

The island of Mustique is a privately owned island and is part of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, offering a unique coastline that is lapped by both the Atlantic and Caribbean Seas. Mustique’s beauty and exclusive offerings make it a popular destination with VIPs and celebrities who are seeking barefoot elegance. Explore its untouched landscapes, enjoy crystal-clear waters, relax at the island’s beach bars, and unplug from the stresses of day-to-day life.

There is a beach for every day of the year on the island of Antigua, part of the Leeward Islands. Fringed by a coral reef, the waters of Antigua are wonderfully calm, making them great for swimming and making the most of your Caribbean yacht charter’s many water toys.  Beyond the beaches, you’ll find lush tropical rainforests, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and superb eateries, from rustic beach bars to fine dining. Antigua’s warm, steady winds also make it a great destination for sailing enthusiasts. 

Part of the three-island state of Barbuda, Antigua, and uninhabited Redonda, these islands are often enjoyed on a Caribbean yacht charter experience along with nearby St. Barths. The island of Barbuda is relatively untouched by tourism development, making it a great place to enjoy traditional Caribbean life and truly unwind.  The island is best known for its stunning pink-sand beaches along its Caribbean coastline and wonderful flora and fauna, including its Frigate Bird Sanctuary.

St. Kitts, or St. Christopher, is nestled in the West Indies and is known for its mix of volcanic black and golden sandy Caribbean beaches. The island offers a relaxed and carefree atmosphere where one can savor life’s simple pleasures. Enjoy soaking up the sun on the island’s pretty beaches, or enjoy a handcrafted cocktail and fresh catch of the day at one of the many local restaurants and beach-side bars. Make sure you leave time to ride the Sugar Train, a scenic railway route that was originally used to transport sugar. 

Unsure where to go in the Caribbean?

Northrop & Johnson specializes in crafting unique itineraries to the Caribbean. Our charter specialists will listen to your desired needs and then make suggestions on the best islands and experiences to enjoy. If you want to enjoy a luxury Caribbean yacht charter, contact our team today. 

Northrop & Johnson: The best Caribbean charter yachts

As a leading yacht charter specialist, Northrop & Johnson has access to the world’s finest luxury Caribbean yachts for charter by pedigree shipbuilders, including superyachts, motor yachts, sailing boats, and multi-hull vessels. Whether you want a yacht built for adventure or designed for family get-togethers, we can connect you with your ideal vessel. Contact our team of Caribbean yacht charter specialists today. 

Motor yacht charter in the Caribbean

A motor yacht charter in the Caribbean offers a truly stylish way to explore the region’s best island destinations. Luxury motor yachts offer superb volume, exceptional onboard amenities, and enhanced accessibility. Northrop & Johnson offers a superb selection of the very best motor yachts. Contact our Caribbean charter experts today.  

Caribbean sailing vacation

Hoist up the sails and harness the power of Mother Nature aboard a luxury sailing yacht. The Caribbean is a wonderful destination for a sailing adventure, with consistent winds and calm waters. The region is also home to some superb regattas. Northrop & Johnson can connect you with the best sailing yachts for rent in the Caribbean, from traditional schooners to high-performance racing vessels. Contact our team today if you want to set sail in the Caribbean.  

Caribbean multihull charters

Multihull vessels such as sailing catamarans and motor catamarans are a superb choice for those seeking maximum space onboard. The large volume means you will benefit from a fantastic selection of onboard amenities and flexible areas for relaxing, dining, and entertaining. We have access to the best Caribbean multihull vessels that are great for families and groups of friends. Contact our Caribbean charter specialists and let us connect you with your ideal multihull vessel or browse our crewed luxury yachts for charter.

What are the best Caribbean yacht charter itineraries?

• Island Hopping | Providenciales to Providenciales 7 Days
• Pure Bliss | St. Lucia to Grenada 7 Days
• A Water Lover’s Dream | Tortola to Jost Van Dyke 7 Days
• Authentic Caribbean Cruising | St. Kitts to Antigua 10 Days
• Beach Bliss | Antigua to St. Martin 10 Days
• The Islands Are Calling | St. Thomas to Jost Van Dyke 8 Days

What to do on a Caribbean yacht charter?

The Caribbean offers so many diverse experiences. Some of the top experiences include:

• Relax on spectacular white powder beaches and soak up the warm Caribbean sun.
• Explore vibrant, colorful reefs and shipwrecks under the waves.
• Enjoy a private hiking experience exploring native flora and fauna in the Caribbean’s lush rainforests.
• Explore the region’s diverse culture and rich history, including sugar and coffee plantations.
• Enjoy unique wildlife encounters, swim with stingrays in Cayman, or the free-roaming pigs on Pig Beach, Bahamas.
• Feast on delicious Caribbean cuisine at award-winning restaurants.
• Make the most of your yacht’s tenders and toys on the crystal-clear waters.
• Take part in the Caribbean’s festivals, fetes, and carnivals.
• Visit local rum distilleries.
• Island hop the many island groups in the Caribbean and drop anchor at secluded anchorages and hidden coves and bays.

What restaurants should I eat at during my Caribbean yacht charter?

From casual beachside eateries to fine-dining restaurants headed up by celebrity chefs, the Caribbean offers a wonderful selection of restaurants to choose from. The range of cuisines is also equally diverse, from traditional Caribbean fare to a delightful cornucopia of fusion flavors. Northrop & Johnson are experts on the Caribbean, with destination intelligence and in-depth knowledge. Our charter specialists will be able to advise you on the best restaurants to visit based on your desired preferences and will even manage all the reservations for you. Contact our Caribbean yacht charter experts today. 

How’s the social and nightlife in the Caribbean?

The social scene and nightlife in the Caribbean depend on which island you visit, with some boasting extravagant parties and ultra-exclusive beach clubs, while other islands are much more low-key. For those who wish to party into the early hours, some of the most exclusive social and nightlife spots include:

•  Nikki Beach, St. Barths
•  Eden Rocks Sand Bar, St. Barths  
•  Basil’s Bar, Mustique 
•  Ocean Lounge, St. Maarten

What’s the best time to charter a yacht in the Caribbean?

A Caribbean yacht charter can be enjoyed year-round thanks to the wonderfully warm, sun-drenched Caribbean climate; however, the best time to visit is during the winter months, when the chance of rain is minimal. No matter what time of year you would like to embark on a Caribbean yacht vacation, our charter specialists can help. Contact the team at Northrop & Johnson today. 

What’s the temperature like in the Caribbean?

Generally, the Caribbean has a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round. The winter months are usually the dry season when there is little chance of rain, while the summer months are hurricane season, and you can expect a higher chance of rain and higher humidity. Temperatures range from the mid-70s to 80s F (24-30 C) throughout the year and remain relatively consistent due to the Caribbean’s proximity to the equator.

When should I book a Caribbean yacht rental?

You should book a Caribbean yacht rental as far in advance as possible, especially for popular yachts and destinations such as St. Barths. Booking in advance will ensure you have the best selection of charter yachts and that there is plenty of time to secure reservations at the most coveted beach clubs and restaurants. However, it is possible to book a last-minute Caribbean yacht charter as long as you are prepared to be flexible with the choice of vessel and cruising itinerary. If you want to book a luxury Caribbean yacht charter, contact the charter specialists at Northrop & Johnson. Our team will be delighted to assist you. 

Where is it best to embark on a Caribbean charter yacht?

Your embarkation destination will depend on your cruising itinerary, with larger Caribbean islands boasting international airports that can also accommodate private jets. When you book a luxury Caribbean yacht charter, the charter specialists at Northrop & Johnson will assist with travel arrangements to and from your charter vessel and will advise on the best embarkation destinations.

What airports can I fly to in the Caribbean?

Some of the larger airports that you can fly to in the Caribbean from the US include: 

• Queen Beatrix International Airport, Aruba
• Sangster International Airport, Jamaica 
• Grantley Adams International Airport, Barbados
• Punta Cana International Airport, Dominican Republic
• Norman Manley International Airport, Jamaica
• Piarco International Airport, Trinidad and Tobago 
• V.C. Bird International Airport, Antigua and Barbuda 
• Princess Juliana International Airport, St. Maarten 
• Owens Roberts International Airport, Cayman Islands

How do I book a private boat charter in the Caribbean?

The best way to book a private boat charter in the Caribbean is to contact a reputable charter brokerage. Northrop & Johnson is a leading international brokerage with access to the world’s finest sailing yachts and motor boats. We excel at creating unforgettable Caribbean charter vacations in the most sought-after destinations. Contact our team today. 

How much is a Caribbean yacht charter?

Caribbean luxury yacht charters with Northrop & Johnson start at US$50,000 per week, with the world’s finest superyachts costing in excess of 1 million per week. Contact our charter specialists today, and we would be delighted to help you plan and book a luxury yacht charter in the Caribbean. 

Caribbean or Bahamas yacht charter?

Whether you opt for a Caribbean or Bahamas yacht charter is a personal preference. Both destinations offer crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, exclusive beach clubs, award-winning restaurants, world-class golf courses, chic resorts, and a wonderfully warm climate year-round. 

For US charterers, a key allure of The Bahamas is its close proximity to the US, just 50 miles from the coastline of Florida. With quick and easy access to The Bahamas via commercial or private jet to multiple destinations in the US, you can be aboard your luxury Bahamas yacht charter quickly, eliminating wasted time traveling. 

If you want to charter a luxury yacht in The Bahamas or the Caribbean, contact the charter specialists at Northrop & Johnson.

What are the most desirable yacht features in the Caribbean?

Desirable yacht features for charterers in the Caribbean include large outdoor deck spaces to maximize time spent under the sun, as well as a good selection of water toys and fishing equipment. Other desirable features include stabilizers to enhance comfort both while cruising and at-anchor and staterooms with flexible configurations to accommodate various guests, especially for families on a multi-generational getaway.

Desirable Caribbean yacht charter features include: 

• Yachts for charter with water slides
• Yachts for charter with fishing equipment
• Yachts for charter with zero-speed stabilizers
• Yachts for charter with wheelchair accessibility
• Family yachts for charters
• Tri-deck yachts for charter
• Flybridge yachts for charter
• Yachts for charter with master cabin on the main deck
• 30 meter/100ft yachts for charter
• 45 meter/150 ft yachts for charter
• 50 meter/160ft yachts for charter
• 60 meter/ 200ft yachts for charter

What crew can I expect aboard my Caribbean yacht charter?

All Northrop & Johnson’s yachts for charter come with a highly professional crew ready to cater to your every need. The number of crew members will depend on the size of your motor yacht or sailing boat; however, you can expect, at a minimum, a captain, a stew or stewardess, a private chef, and a deckhand.

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Caribbean motor yacht.

Caribbean Crewed Motor Yacht Charters available from 50' to 446'

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Sneed Tropical Yacht Charters, a reputable independent charter booking service with a global presence, owns Caribbean Yacht Charters as a subsidiary. Sneed Tropical Yacht Charters' staff has more than 30 years of combined experience, and we'll keep personally inspecting yachts in the Caribbean to provide you with the greatest yachting vacation possible. Our website is continually getting fresh online brochures added. On the internet, we provide the most affordable prices! We have a one-of-a-kind collection of some of the most gorgeous Yachts in the world, each offering the height of luxury. On request, we can hold multi-day events and we specialize in catering to corporate chartering needs. We have a fleet of vessels at our disposal, ranging from tiny luxury motor yachts to Super Yachts. Since 1990, Sneed Tropical Yacht Charters has been a leader in the yachting sector, offering customers the broadest selection of crewed yachts in the most well-liked cruising locations on the planet.

Caribbean Yacht Charter: A Guide to Your Next Luxury Vacation

The Caribbean is a perfect destination for those looking to enjoy a luxurious and relaxing vacation. With crystal-clear waters, stunning beaches and warm weather all year round, the Caribbean is an ideal place to sail. One of the most popular ways to explore the Caribbean is by yacht charter. Whether you're looking for a sailing experience, a mega yacht, or a catamaran, the Caribbean has something to offer for everyone.

Catamaran charters are a popular option for those who want to experience the best of Caribbean sailing. These boats offer spacious living areas and comfortable cabins, making them an ideal choice for families or large groups. With their stable design, catamarans are also ideal for those who are looking for a smooth and comfortable sailing experience. They provide plenty of room for sunbathing and lounging, and their shallow draft makes them perfect for exploring secluded bays and coves. Sailing charters are a perfect choice for those who want to enjoy a more adventurous sailing experience. With the wind in your hair, you can sail from island to island, exploring some of the most beautiful destinations in the Caribbean. Many sailing charters come with a skipper and a crew, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the sailing experience. With a sailing charter, you have the freedom to create your own itinerary and explore the Caribbean at your own pace.

Crewed yachts offer a unique and personalized sailing experience. With a dedicated crew on board, you can enjoy the ultimate in luxury and comfort. Crewed yachts come in all shapes and sizes, from small sailing boats to large mega yachts, so you can choose the perfect yacht for your needs. With a crewed yacht, you'll have access to a personal chef, bartender and concierge, so you can enjoy a completely hassle-free vacation. For those looking for the ultimate in luxury, mega yachts offer an unforgettable sailing experience. These magnificent boats come equipped with all the latest amenities, including spacious living areas, private cabins, a gym, and even a spa. With a mega yacht, you can sail to some of the most exotic destinations in the Caribbean and enjoy a truly unforgettable vacation.

Caribbean yacht charters offer something for everyone, from adventurous sailing experiences to luxurious mega yacht vacations. Whether you're looking for a catamaran, a sailing charter, a crewed yacht, or a mega yacht, the Caribbean has something to offer for everyone. So why not explore this stunning region and experience the ultimate in luxury sailing? Our mission is to match you with the ideal Caribbean Crewed Yacht Charter for this special trip. Your luxurious Caribbean yacht and the island you want to explore are both your choices. Consider what you want to see and do when you begin. Sneed Charters can assist you in having the most amazing holiday.

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Caribbean Yacht Charter: Everything You Should Know

If you’re thinking about someplace warm for some sun and sailing, the Caribbean may be the first places you might think of. But what’s involved in chartering a boat in the Caribbean? Where can you go, and how is the sailing?

Since there’s a lot to know about chartering a boat, we’ve put together your comprehensive guide to putting together your perfect getaway.

Where are the Caribbean Islands?

The Caribbean lures vacation travelers for so many reasons, but it’s very compelling for sailors. The region is steeped in romantic nautical history, and each island is a distinct cultural experience. And the weather, of course!

The Caribbean islands have warm and sunny weather all year round

Even in hurricane season, the weather is pretty nice. But when Europe and North America are buried in snow and ice during the deeps of winter, a white sand beach in the Caribbean becomes the clearest vision of paradise. At the worse, have a light sweater or sweatshirt on board for some cool but pleasant evenings. But it’s never cold , and days are always warm.

The Caribbean is a vast playground on a yacht

Most Caribbean sailing is easy and fun. Small islands lie within easy sail of each other, and most island nations are a day sail apart. The water is deep, the trade winds are consistent, and the sailing conditions are almost always perfect. Clear water and bright sun make navigation easy, and much of it is by line of sight.

You can have fun island hopping in archipelagos like the British Virgin Islands or St. Vincent and the Grenadines without changing countries. But sailing to another country, clearing in and out and getting a new stamp on your passport? That’s fun, too, and gives you an overnight change of scenery. Not just the landscape, but the entire culture and vibe can change with a few hours of sailing.

There are many beautiful resorts in the Caribbean where tourists come to stay for a week. But on a charter yacht? You get to see a lot of different resorts and gorgeous spots at your own pace.

Most Caribbean islands aren’t overrun by tourists

The mass tourism in the Caribbean is primarily from cruise ships, and in a charter yacht it’s easy to avoid them because you can get to places the cruise ships can not. Even with cruise ships plying the islands, there are very few highly built up and developed areas. And many places that are green, quiet, and inviting.

Certainly, there are resorts, hotels, and even some cities. But the islands also are places where people live , and there are wild places on all of them. Some islands have taken it further and leaned into ecotourism and preserving natural beauty. They build resorts to blend into the jungle and wilds or on the beaches, and the tours and activities get you out in nature.

Even at its most crowded, you’ll never have that packed theme-park experience. There’s always natural beauty and a calmer, more authentic pace of life.

Each island of the Caribbean has a distinct culture and unique history

People have lived in the Caribbean for thousands of years. Indigenous peoples like the Carib, Arawak, Taíno, and others settled the islands of the Caribbean long before the first Europeans arrived. Many of these populations didn’t survive the Europeans, but their cultural legacy still exists.

European colonization reshaped the Caribbean by establishing settlements, plantations, and military bases to further their government’s economic interests. Slaves imported in large numbers, along with European settlers and planters, swelled the population. The French, English, Spanish, Dutch, and Danish all established colonies (or tried to) and claimed various pieces of the islands. And every one of them left their mark.

The modern Caribbean has a mix of languages and cultures, with independent countries and territories from the U.K., France, and the Netherlands. A few islands are split, like Saint Martin/Sint Maarten, with its distinctive French and Dutch sides. People have mixed these histories to create their own cultural fusion, resulting in languages that combine native words, European languages, and other influences.

No matter which island you start on, every time you change ports, you’ll find something a little different.

There is a party-vibe in the Caribbean that you can’t find anywhere else

Getting to the Caribbean

Most of the Caribbean is easy to get to from Europe and the United States. Most flights from the U.S. connect through somewhere in Florida, to shorten the last flight. Direct flights are available from all the major European capitols, though you may need to connect on regional airlines for some islands.

Visas and paperwork

If you’re flying in to one country for your charter and not leaving it, you’ll do all your clearing in at the airport. Visa waiver treaties allow you to visit most Caribbean countries without a complicated visa proc’re from a participating country. Everyone in your party will need a passport, of course, but any visas or stamps will happen when you arrive.

If you plan to sail between countries on your charter, visas shouldn’t pose a challenge, either. Check with your charter company for specifics, as they may have restrictions and rules about sailing ranges. And they also have paperwork you’ll need to clear the boat in when you arrive.

Flying to the islands

Flights from the United States are shorter and more numerous, but there are plenty of flights from Europe even if they’re longer because of the distance.

No matter where you’re coming from, start looking at flights before you book your charter. Look closely when booking a major carrier headed to a smaller island. There’s a chance your last hop will be on a smaller inter-island plane. So make sure you meet all the baggage requirements and limits if you have to island hop.

Flying between the islands

Regional airlines connect all the islands, so check schedules for brief visits or extended stays. Most of the planes are smaller commuter planes, and may have limitations on baggage weights, so plan well.

Currency Conversions and Payments

Because there are multiple countries and legal jurisdictions in the Caribbean, there are also many currencies. While larger businesses take credit and debit cards, your bank may charge international transaction fees, even if the island nation uses the same currency.

Much of the Caribbean has standardized on the East Caribbean Dollar (XCD) which has a fixed conversion rate to U.S. dollars at $1.00 USD = $2.70 XCD. Other countries may use U.S. Dollars, Euros, or other currency.

Sometimes you can pay for things with different currencies on the spot, but don’t expect a good exchange rate. No one must accept foreign currency, and many don’t want the hassle unless you’re paying a lot more than you need to. So it’s a good idea to get a few local bills in your pocket when you arrive. It will ease your way and save you overpaying with big foreign bills.

What are the most popular destinations for yacht charters in the Caribbean?

The Caribbean has over 700 islands, reefs and cays grouped into thirty different political territories. Some are very easy and popular for chartering, and many are less accessible. Islands without charter bases are still interesting to visit. But some islands like Cuba can be logistically and politically difficult to visit for a vacation, especially on a U.S. passport.

The Dominican Republic and Haiti have difficulties because of their exposed coastlines and distance from other islands. It’s not that you can’t charter in these places, but there’s a reason other places are more popular.

The most popular destinations have visa waivers with the US, EU/Schengen areas, UK, and other countries. So pre-approved visas are not needed if your passport is from those nations.

You’ll find multiple languages spoken on most islands, including creoles and local dialects. So even if you don’t speak the language, there’s a good chance you’ll find someone who speaks a language you do.

U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI)

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Vibrant culture, turquoise waters, and spectacular scenery make for the perfect private yacht charter - Caribbean sands are calling your name.

Caribbean Islands Yacht Charter

Turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and tropical rainforests await anyone smart enough to choose a luxury yacht charter, Caribbean style. With over 7000 islands to choose from, each with its own distinctive character, the opportunities for exploration are endless. There is the vibrant island culture, spectacular scenery, and the thought of a deserted beach where you can be your own castaway.

With so many incredible luxury yacht charter options from the Moran team , you’ll need to plan more than one trip to explore all it has to offer. Abundant marine life in rainbow colors means the delights of snorkeling and scuba diving are too good to miss. The bird watching is superb too, with many indigenous and migratory species. Sailing from island to island is a mesmerizing way to appreciate the natural beauty on a private yacht charter . Caribbean scenery is particularly lush in the Windward Islands, and from the fishing villages of St Lucia to the underwater paradise of the Turks and Caicos Islands, the Caribbean has so many stunning places to explore. Meet the Trade Winds at the Leeward Islands and find pristine beaches, sunshine, and a warm welcome from the Virgin Islands, Antigua, St Kitts, Nevis, and more. Exploring Barbados and its historic towns, plantation houses, and quieter coves is just one more possibility of places to go in this finest of yacht charter destinations .

The Caribbean is a destination to enjoy and savor slowly, absorbing the hospitality, the taste of the cuisine, and the energetic and distinctive music. It is a place to watch beautiful sunsets and make lasting memories with friends and family.

Back to Destinations

Leeward islands, windward islands, united states virgin islands, british virgin islands, turks & caicos, dominican republic, puerto rico.

St. Maarten offers two distinct cultures and experiences. The North end is less developed and more secluded while the Dutch side offers plenty of water activities and shopping. The island of Anguilla is a hidden gem with luxurious spas and a Greg Norman-designed golf course, and is also the wreck dive capital of the Caribbean. St. Barths has become a mecca for new superyachts and it’s easy to see why, with abundant restaurants, spas, and boutiques to go along with marine parks and pristine beaches. St. Kitts and Nevis are surrounded by coral reefs and are home to a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Brimstone Hill Fortress National Park. Finally, Antigua and Barbuda offers visitors a chance to experience history, tourism, and the great Caribbean laid-back vibe without the hustle and bustle of other tourist-filled islands.

As the Northern most Windward Island, Dominica is home to over 365 rivers and the world’s second largest hot spring, Boiling Lake, a must-explore spot by luxury yacht charter. Caribbean cruising here will take you down to Martinique, where you will find black sand beaches and diverse rainforests. Due to its sovereignty switching between the British and the French 14 times, St. Lucia’s history has created a culture rarely found elsewhere in the Caribbean. Saint Vincent and the Grenadines are a perfect combination of modern amenities and calm Caribbean life. The Island of Spice, Grenada, has a great contrast of relaxing beaches, lush rainforests, and numerous villages dotted on its coastline.

The U.S. Virgin islands offer a diverse collection of keen environmental preservation, timeworn plantations, and unspoiled ocean. The quiet island, St. Johns, is blanketed by a park which extends into the sea, creating a pristine island paradise. A water enthusiast’s tropical paradise, St. Thomas, provides countless places to dive, sail, fish, and relax on a private yacht charter in the Caribbean. St. Croix is the largest island in the group and offers crystal-clear water and scenic coastline.

Starting on Salt Island is a great way to explore the wreckage of the RMS Rhone nearby. Virgin Gorda is a wonderful spot to explore the Baths, home of enormous rock formations and then head over to Spanish Town. In Agenda, you can explore beautiful beaches or snorkel over the coral reefs found at Loblolly Bay. Trellis Bay and Marina Cay just north of Beef island are two great areas for hanging out, shopping, and happy hour on your luxury yacht charter. Caribbean snorkelling spots Monkey Point on Guana Island or Sandy Spit come highly recommended for viewing stunning sea life. After all the snorkelling and hiking, a visit to Foxy’s on Jost Van Dyke is a must. The last attractions can be found on Tortola and Norman Island: Pusser’s Landing restaurant and Treasure Point, which is thought to be the inspiration for “Treasure Island.”

Providenciales or more commonly known as “Provo” is the most developed Island with an extensive infrastructure of hotels, restaurants, and facilities. Even though Provo is developed, it has still managed to maintain a rustic island feel. Visiting the conch farm on Provo is fascinating, as it is the only one in the world. Middle Caicos and North Caicos embody the unsurpassed preservation of the environment, with lush tropical woodlands, the largest cave network in the Caribbean, cottage pond and flamingo pond in North Caicos and a range of wildlife. Grand Turk and Salt Cay have a rich history complete with Bermudian styled homes and friendly island charm. The Islands have the Atlantic Ocean to the North and the serene Caicos bank to the south. The Caicos bank provides excellent anchorage in shallow crystal waters – perfect for a private yacht charter, Caribbean style.

There is no place in the world like the Dominican Republic. More than just beach resorts, the Dominican Republic has one of the most beautifully diverse coastlines in the world, with ragged rocky cliffs and palm-tree-studded beaches extending for hundreds of miles. On the eastern side of the island the resort town of Punta Cana has incredible golf courses, chic restaurants, gorgeous beaches and 5-star resorts. The northern coast of the Dominican Republic’s heart is Puerto Plata, a perfect place to be pampered in between the beach and dinner. A quick trip to Santo Domingo will let you experience the oldest city in the new world with its fascinating history and culture.

Puerto Rico is unlike any other place in the Caribbean – come for a visit and live your own 5-star vacation. San Juan is where the old and new come together and give the island it’s heart and soul. Old San Juan is a breathtaking ancient city that has managed to retain its charisma. The ocean is the main attraction in the west and sports some of the best surfing you’ll find on a luxury yacht charter. Caribbean waters teem with life in the east, the ideal place to explore underneath the surface. With all it has to offer, Puerto Rico is sure to exceed all expectations.

Yacht Charter Results For

• Inspiration

Adapt your search results here:

Kismet | from eur€ 3,000,000/wk.

112M FREIRE SUPERYACHT | From EUR€ 3,000,000/wk

111m FULL CUSTOM MEGA YACHT | From EUR€ 2,200,000/wk

DREAM | From EUR€ 2,000,000/wk

MAR | From EUR€ 1,800,000/wk

168M CRUISE EXPLORER YACHT | From EUR€ 1,750,000/wk

92M FULLY CUSTOM SUPERYACHT | From US$ 1,500,000/wk

96m Custom Superyacht | From EUR€ 1,500,000/wk

93M FULLY-CUSTOM SUPERYACHT | From EUR€ 1,470,000/wk

83m Limited Editions 272 Superyacht | From EUR€ 1,200,000/wk

95 meter CUSTOM | From EUR€ 1,200,000/wk

86M CUSTOM LUXURY YACHT | From EUR€ 1,200,000/wk

SUNRAYS | From EUR€ 1,150,000/wk

QUEEN MIRI | From EUR€ 1,125,000/wk

ROMEA | From EUR€ 1,100,000/wk

SAMSARA | From EUR€ 1,100,000/wk

91m CUSTOM YACHT | From EUR€ 1,100,000/wk

80M MODERN CUSTOM YACHT | From EUR€ 1,085,000/wk

PHOENIX 2 | From EUR€ 1,000,000/wk

SOLANDGE | From EUR€ 1,000,000/wk

The Caribbean Yachting Season: Ultimate Guide

Whether you’re an experienced crew member or a newbie eager to set sail, this complete guide will help you chart your course through the Caribbean Yachting Season.

Here I delve deeper into the Yachting Season in the Caribbean, looking at where to go and when, crew agencies, marinas, visa requirements, and big events.

When is the Caribbean Yachting Season?

The Caribbean Yachting season occurs between November and May. This is also known as the Winter Season in Yachting, referring to winter in the Northern Hemisphere.

The timing of this season occurs during these months as this timeframe is outside of the hurricane season.

During the winter months, you can expect to feel slightly cooler temperatures of about 28°C, as well as windy conditions, ideal for sailing enthusiasts.

Main Events to look out for during the Caribbean Yachting Season

If you are hoping to secure a job on a Yacht in the Caribbean, then you are going to want to head over a few weeks before the season starts. This is the time that Yachts are getting ready for the season. Leading up to the season, Yachts may be hiring new crew members or simply needing extra assistance as they get ready.

Another great job opportunity is to position yourself in a location leading up to main events that will attract many yachts to one location:

• The Fort Lauderdale Boat Show (End of October) is an ideal time to find a job on a yacht. After the show, boats start getting ready to head to the Bahamas and the Caribbean.
• The Antigua Boat Show is a 6-day event in the 1 st week of December.
• The St Maarten Heineken Regatta is held in March.
• Christmas and New Year’s Eve. Now these may seem like obvious events to mention, but this is the Caribbean’s busiest time of year. Job seekers should attempt to find work before December, but equally as important is being available in January as many yachts make crew changes for those that didn’t make the cut during the busiest month.

Key Destinations in the Caribbean

The Caribbean consists of thousands of islands, however, there are a few key islands you would want to situate yourself in order to increase your chances of finding a job.

Antigua is a popular destination for yachting activities and a common starting point for most Yacht charters.

The Antigua Boat Show

The Antigua Charter Yacht Show in early December is a popular event for industry professionals and newcomers alike.

The show marks the start of the Caribbean yachting season and attracts impressive luxury yachts in the region. The main purpose of the show is for yacht brokers, vendors, Captains, and the Press to network.

It is an opportunity for yachts to be showcased before the season kicks off, in the hopes of booking charters and impressing charter brokers.

Marinas in Antigua

The 3 most popular marinas in Antigua are conveniently located within walking distance of each other.

• Nelsons Dockyard
• Falmouth Harbour
• Antigua Yacht Club

Crew Housing in Antigua

Crew housing is limited in Antigua so depending on your budget you would need to look into staying at hostels or an Airbnb.

Pineapple House

This Crew House accommodates a maximum of eight guests, dormitory style. Very basic but lovely accommodation located just above the Antigua Yacht Club.

St. Maarten/St. Martin

This island is a hub for Yacht Crew and a strategic location to look for job opportunities during the Caribbean Yachting Season. Its dual nationality means you have access to both the Dutch and French sides.

St. Maartens Key Event

Heineken Regatta (March) : Although the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is mainly a sailing event, it also draws a significant number of Superyachts and luxury sailboats. Many crew members go to St. Maarten during this period in search of job opportunities.

St Maarten Crew Houses

Smilers Crew House is located in the central area of Cole Bay, making it easily accessible to all marinas. Some are within walking distance, while others are only a few minutes away by bus.

Shrimpy’s Crew Quarters is very basic accommodation ideally located in Marigot. Bookings are through Airbnb.

Marinas in St Maarten

Some of the top marinas to check out in St Maarten are:

• Yacht Club Port de Plaisance
• Isle de Sol Marina
• Palapa Marina
• Simpson Bay Yacht Club Marina

The Bahamas

While the Bahamas may not be officially considered a Caribbean destination, it remains a highly sought-after location during the Caribbean Yachting Season.

Most yachts will travel back and forth between Fort Lauderdale and The Bahamas in between charters. If you are hoping to land a job in the Bahamas, then it would be a good idea to position yourself in Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach.

For crew housing options in Fort Lauderdale check out my post on The Top Crew Houses in Fort Lauderdale.

Visa and Passport Requirements for the Caribbean Yachting Season

Many islands offer you a visa upon entry such as the Bahamas, Antigua, and the BVI’s.

If you are planning on starting your search from the USA, then you will need a B1/B2 visa . Even if a vessel flew you into the Caribbean from outside of the USA, that vessel will always make its way back at some point, so it is advisable to have your B1/B2 visa.

If you plan on heading to St Maarten you will need a Schengen visa . The island is split between the French side and the Dutch side. If you are not able to get a multi-entry visa, then your preference would be for the Dutch side of the island.

Crew Agencies in the Caribbean

Most crew agencies will have connections or clients in the Caribbean but their offices are in America or Europe.  

If you have chosen to start your journey into yachting from Florida or West Palm Beach, the top crew agencies you want to sign up for and meet with are:

• Luxury Yacht Placement
• Northrop and Johnson
• The Crew Network
• Hill Robinson
• Cotton Crews

For more detailed information on these agencies check out my post on the Top Fort Lauderdale Crew Agencies .

My Favourite islands to visit during the Caribbean Yachting Season

Whether you are on a Motor Yacht or Sail Boat, these are some of the top islands worth visiting in the Caribbean.

• British Virgin Islands
• US Virgin Islands
• St Kitts and Nevis
• Turks and Caicos

Hi, my name is Lisa, a Chief Stewardess in the yachting industry with 10 years of experience, as well as 8 years of hospitality experience prior to that. Being in the yachting industry has been a whirlwind of adventure, growth, challenges and some of the best experiences of my life, and I am excited to share my knowledge and experiences with all of you.

The Mediterranean Yachting Season: A Comprehensive Guide

Motor yacht vs sailboat: 7 key differences.

The Caribbean

Secluded beaches and pastel ports await in the Caribbean, where culture-rich capitals, hidden coves, and dense archipelagos provide the ultimate yachting playground. With its year-round sunshine and blue skies, calm waters, and abundance of lagoon-like marinas, the Caribbean is a tropical dream come true.

Home to one of the best culinary scenes in the Caribbean, Antigua is an epicure’s delight.

With its rosy shores, sepia-toned deserts, and pastel-hued colonial towns, Aruba is a kaleidoscope of colour, culture, and natural beauty.

Speightstown, Barbados is your gateway to some of the Caribbean’s most iconic yachting locales on this journey.

Your visit to this enchanting isle begins with a one-of-a-kind arrival via Curaçao’s floating bridge—an engineering marvel few visitors get to experience up close.

Terre-de-Haut is one of the largest islands that make up the Les Saints archipelago, and Bourg Town is its glittering heart.

Fort-de-France

Sail to Fort-de-France—Martinique's radiant heart. This lively port is a collage of Creole heritage, French history, and tropical wonders.

Navigate to Le Marin, where Martinique's spirit is on display in vivid colours.

Pointe du Bout

Pointe du Bout in Martinique offers a unique blend of chic sophistication and wild beauty.

The smaller, quieter, and more exclusive sister isle to popular St Kitts, Nevis brims with charming villages, secluded beaches, and rich history.

The captain will sail to Rodney Bay at St Lucia’s northern tip as the sun sets into the sparkling Caribbean Sea.

Sint Maarten

Dive into Sint Maarten’s rich Dutch heritage and easygoing Caribbean atmosphere during your journey.

St Barths is one of the Caribbean’s top yachting destinations, and laidback Gustavia is your gateway to its many wonders.

St Lucia checks all the boxes for a literal tropical paradise—dense emerald forests, awe-inspiring beaches, and majestic mountains.

The Grenadines

You’ll drop anchor just off the sun-kissed shores of Princess Margaret Beach during your visit to Bequia, the largest and most spectacular of the Grenadines.

Our Journeys

Find your perfect caribbean voyage.

Lesser Antilles featuring Nevis & the Grenadines

Lesser Antilles featuring Antigua & St Lucia

Lesser Antilles featuring Curaçao & Martinique

Explore the region, the four seasons yachts difference.

World’s Most Exclusive Harbours

Discernment dictates our choice of ports. We dock where the waters are still and the crowds thin out, giving you an exclusive introduction to the Caribbean's hidden gems: spots that are hushed, lush, and ripe with authentic local flavours. Our journeys are bespoke, crafted not for the multitude but for the inquisitive few with an appetite for the waves less sailed. 

Bespoke Shoreside Excursions & Private Arrangements 

Customize your voyage with bespoke experiences on land, like a stunning private dinner shoreside or an extended stay with Four Seasons at the beginning or end of your journey.  

Dining at Culinary Crossroads

Cheers to a dining scene that salutes the spirit of the Caribbean. On deck, meals are served up as crafted experiences; a global gathering plated up right before you. You’ll find that, here, it’s less about the eating, and more about the meeting—of spices, stories, and seafarers, all converging where your glass clinks and your fork dives in. 

Dedicated Marina Days in Select Itineraries

Our anchor drops where the extraordinary calls home, and at marinas that double as portals to the Caribbean's very essence. On this expedition, the ocean becomes your select promenade, each mooring a special event, and the horizon? Merely your initiation. Amidst the grandeur of St. Lucia's majestic Pitons, the yacht is your ticket to an exclusive tale told by only a handful. 

Our Stories

Featured stories to inspire your journey.

Within the pages of these stories, the genuine passion of our yachting endeavor comes to life, unveiling the meticulous consideration woven into every aspect, from design and itineraries to the overall experiences and beyond. Whether you are in the reflective stage, have confirmed your sailing, or are on the verge of embarking on your journey, these narratives beckon.

The Genesis of Four Seasons Yachts

These Caribbean Cocktails are Island Culture in a Glass

Navigating the Soul of the Caribbean with Four Seasons Yachts

Unparalleled Luxury: The Signature Suites Experience on Four Seasons Yachts

The Loft Suite: A Tranquil Haven on Four Seasons Yachts

'Access to hidden-gem ports': Why this luxury yacht is the best option for beach lovers

“This is your yacht, to do with as you please,” Captain Rob O’Leary told guests of the Emerald Sakara , the second luxury superyacht from Emerald Cruises. “We have an international crew from 21 different nations, and we are all here for you.”

I was on the maiden voyage of the 360-foot Sakara, a December 2023 sailing with the added glamor of a Champagne christening in San Juan, Puerto Rico, led by the ship’s godmother, Kelly Craighead. She is president of Cruise Lines International Association, the industry’s leading trade organization.

“Sakara” is a Sanskrit word meaning “thoughts become things” – a fitting name, given the thought that went into the ship’s chic design. And our itinerary for the week couldn’t be more yacht-like – an island-hopping experience in the West Indies, stopping in out-of-the-way ports that larger cruise ships can’t manage. And while some smaller boats can feel rocky, the Sakara’s stabilizers keep the ship on an even keel.

Are luxury cruise ships worth the money? We did the math for Silversea's Silver Nova.

With just 100 guests and 76 crew, the Sakara is part of the larger trend in cruising: smaller ships that cater to vacationers who want the style and feel of a yacht, and the intimate service that accompanies that, with the amenities of a larger ship. Craighead said small-ship cruises offer “luxury at a great value, access to hidden-gem ports and unique features like marinas for water activities directly off the ship. These small ships can even be chartered for your own amazing, private yacht experience.”

After departing from San Juan, the Sakara reached the Puerto Rican island of Culebra in a few hours, just 20 miles off the coast. We hopped in a taxi van at the port to reach the pristine waters of Flamenco Beach, which consistently makes the world’s top 10 lists. It was a fall-asleep-on-the-sand kind of day, under brightly colored umbrellas, with multiple trips to the canteen for french fries.

“I hope you enjoyed Culebra today because it’s quite hard to get in, through a very narrow channel,” O’Leary said at a supper-hour briefing. 

The next day, we stopped at the nearby island of Vieques, which is filled with wild horses – about 2,000 of them – most of which are fully accustomed to the photo op. We docked at Esperanza Bay and wandered the waterfront. Jeeps or ATVs were available to rent for those who wanted to beach-hop, but we settled into the sand at Sun Bay. And when we sailed into Cruz Bay on the U.S. Virgin Island of St. John the next day, there were yachts and catamarans everywhere – and the Sakara fit right in.

The crew outdid itself the next day at White Bay Beach on Jost Van Dyke, the smallest of the British Virgin Islands. A barbecue feast awaited us, along with beach loungers, steel drum entertainment, and all the paddles and water toys from the ship. Later, we wandered down the beach to find a young yacht crowd, groups of friends who have rented their boats, all knee-deep in their mojitos.

“I get a real kick out of driving the Emerald Sakara into St. Barths, muscling in and anchoring next to all the other superyachts,” O’Leary said. “It looks good in the pictures.” A stop there brought a snorkeling excursion, a bit of high-end shopping and a few rosé-soaked hours on Plage de Saline.

Back on board, the creature comforts of the Sakara included plenty of outdoor space to connect with the ocean, a small infinity pool, a full-service spa and a large, elegant dining room and terrace. It’s all part of the cushy yacht lifestyle. 

The ship will spend the summer and fall cruising the Mediterranean Sea – heading for the French and Italian rivieras, Croatia and Greece – with eight-day itineraries from $5,100. The Emerald Sakara will be back in the Caribbean next December, with eight-day cruises starting at $4,100. 

Editor’s note: The contributor of this story received access to this cruise from Emerald Cruises. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of reviews.

I went on my first cruise — here are 15 things that surprised me the most about this type of travel

Posted: April 25, 2024 | Last updated: April 25, 2024

• I took my first cruise on one of the largest ships, Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas.
• My seven-night trip was full of surprises, from the size of my room to the quality of the food.
• The port stops were shorter than I expected, and I found myself getting lost on the giant ship.

Before April 2022, I had never seen a cruise ship in real life.

Prior to becoming a travel reporter, my trips had been mostly about visiting family in faraway places and budget road trips across the US , where I stayed in campsites, parking lots, and cheap Airbnbs .

I'd traveled by car, bus, train, and plane, but boats of any kind were completely new to me.

That changed two years ago, when I took my first cruise on one of the world's largest cruise ships , Royal Caribbean's Wonder of the Seas .

During my seven-night Caribbean voyage, the ship sailed round-trip from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, to Roatán, Honduras; Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico; and Royal Caribbean's private island in the Bahamas . 

While I'd seen cruise ships on TV and in movies, I couldn't understand how big these vessels were until I saw one myself. On board, I felt like I was in a small town in the middle of the ocean.

Since this was a new form of transportation for me, I experienced a lot of surprises. I learned that cruising is a lifestyle in itself, and while it's not necessarily for me, I can see what draws people to this type of vacation time and again.

For $2,000, I spent seven nights in an ocean-view stateroom on deck 8. The cruise was on sale, as it was originally priced at $3,000.

The ship has 2,867 staterooms, according to Royal Caribbean . 

I booked a midtier room — a step above interior staterooms with no windows, a step below staterooms with a balcony, and two steps below a suite.

My 179-square-foot cabin had a private bathroom, a king-size bed, and an ocean view.

I was surprised by how big the sale was with such a big discount. To me, $1,000 feels like a huge difference in price for the same vacation.

Since the room was only 179 square feet, I thought I'd feel cramped. But when I stepped inside, I was surprised at how big it felt.

I thought the stateroom made great use of a small space with plenty of storage for my clothes and other belongings. There were two closets for hanging space and more drawers than I ended up using. 

An attendant serviced my room twice a day — more than I've experienced at hotels or in Airbnbs.

After leaving to start my day each morning, a stateroom attendant cleaned my room. And after I left for dinner each night, they came back to clean up again. Every evening, they brought me fresh towels — sometimes creatively folded — and a flyer featuring the next day's schedule on the ship with the weather, dress code , and any other important information, such as a time change. 

This surprised me because I am used to having my room serviced once daily, if at all, during my hotel stays, and never in Airbnbs.

I assumed I'd have a small porthole window like I've seen on ships in TV shows and movies. But my rectangular window was much bigger than I expected.

An electronic shade over the window could be brought down during the day to reveal some grand views. I loved waking up after a night at sea to a front-row view of the place I'd be visiting that day. 

While windowless rooms are cheaper, I couldn't imagine staying in a room without one. My oceanview stateroom cost about $300 more than an entry-level room.

My room was located at the front of the ship, and I didn't expect to feel as much movement in my cabin as I did. Later, I learned that the location of your stateroom can impact this greatly.

I booked a stateroom at the very front of deck eight, and I felt constant motion in my room.

Some nights were rockier than others. On the roughest nights, I heard and felt a similar sensation to thunder beneath me every few minutes. Loud thumps and heavy vibrations in my room sounded like large pieces of furniture falling down. The first night this happened, I feared the worst, but over time, I realized that this was a normal aspect of cruising — but one I would likely never get used to. 

After talking to seasoned cruisers on the ship, several told me that the front of the ship is one of the worst places to be for feeling motion. Higher decks in the middle of the ship feel calmer and more stable, they said. 

Next time, I'd choose a room in the middle of the ship. 

All cruises mandate a training session for guests on what to do in an emergency. But I was surprised that mine was available to watch on-demand in my cabin.

All I had to do for safety training was watch a couple of videos — either on my room TV or on the Royal Caribbean app — and then check into my assembly station: the area that I was assigned to go to in case of an emergency. At the assembly station, an attendant checked via the Royal Caribbean app that I had completed the mandatory training.

I was expecting to attend a large safety training session once I got on the ship, so this alternative was a breeze. 

The ship has 24 elevators, but taking the stairs was often faster.

Since there were so many elevators on the ship, I expected them to be a pretty efficient way to get around. But they were often so crowded and slow that I ended up taking the stairs instead. By the middle of my trip, unless I was going all the way up to the pool decks, I always opted for the stairs to save time. 

The ship was harder to navigate than I expected, and I often got lost on my way to specific venues.

The ship has 16 guest decks; each deck is divided into three sections — forward, middle, and aft. 

It took me a few days to get used to the sections, and I often found myself heading to the right deck but the wrong section of the ship. Luckily, there were maps on every floor, which I used until the morning I left. 

In the communal indoor spaces, I didn't even feel like I was on a ship, which was unexpected.

If I woke up on deck five of Wonder of the Seas with no memory of my cruise, I'd think I was in a shopping mall. 

Aside from the slight movement of the ship, the indoor decks were so big that, as a cruise newbie, it was hard to believe that I was on a gigantic boat in the middle of the ocean. Everywhere I looked, I saw shops, stands, restaurants, large sculptures, and a unique ceiling structure that reminded me of the malls I've visited. 

Throughout the trip, I heard more live music than I thought I would, often in the background of the ship's activities.

Aside from music festivals , I've never heard more live music on a trip than I did on this cruise. On the communal decks, musicians played for hours while people relaxed and played around them. I was also surprised by the eclectic mix of genres I heard, from rock to jazz to classical. 

In addition to the music hall, where concerts were regularly held, live bands performed on indoor and outdoor communal decks, while some people watched and others listened while swimming, relaxing, or walking around. 

I thought formal nights would be enforced more.

I like to be comfy, so I was dreading formal nights going into this cruise. 

I brought one fancy dress with me to wear anytime I needed, but I learned after the first formal night, that the dress code wasn't strictly enforced. People wore a range of outfits, from evening gowns to t-shirts. 

For the rest of the trip, I relaxed my interpretation of the dress code, too. 

Some of the best meals I had were included in the rate.

One of the unique things about cruising is that most meals, snacks, and drinks are all-inclusive as part of the cruise rate.

However, on large ships like Wonder of the Seas, more than a dozen restaurants with specialty offerings like sushi are not included, and incur additional charges, either as a one-time fee or by the dish.

However, I was pleasantly surprised to find that some of the most delicious and satisfying meals I had were in the restaurants that were included for guests. There were a handful of buffets with all different types of food, and the main dining room served a three-course meal with varying menu items each night. These complimentary options satisfied every single one of my cravings. One of the best meals I had was in the main dining room, where I was seated alone. 

I found that reservations for restaurants and shows on the ship fill up fast, so it's important to plan ahead to do exactly what you want.

The cruise ship was full of activities and restaurants that I could go to any time, but some restaurants, like the specialty ones, and all the shows on board, required reservations that I made through the Royal Caribbean app.

However, I found that getting reservations for the show and meal times I wanted on the day of was often hard. So, I started making reservations days before each event, depending on its popularity.

For example, the circus-like acrobatic water show in the Aquatheater seemed to be the most popular and hardest reservation to get. I tried to get one on the day of the event but couldn't find any availability until a show two nights later.

But even with extensive preparations, planning anything on a cruise ship was subject to change.

The excursion I was most thrilled about —  a hot air balloon ride over the Bahamas — was canceled the day of because the winds were too high.

It was on the last day of my trip, and with only one day in port, it could not be rescheduled. It was the experience I was looking forward to most, so I was disappointed and didn't realize this was a possibility going into the trip. On a cruise ship, I learned that all plans are subject to change based on things outside the crew's control, like the weather. 

I thought the port stops would be longer.

Since we traveled such a long way to each port, I wrongfully assumed we'd spend more time in them. The ship usually docked in the morning, around 8 a.m., and left in the early afternoon. 

I thought I'd have time to explore the port for a while after each excursion, but some of my excursions took the entire day, getting me back to the boat just in time for departure. I was also hoping to see what these places looked like at night, but we never departed after sundown. 

Although I got a taste of the Caribbean, I felt like I didn't have enough time to get a sense of each place, which made me realize that I would probably prefer to vacation in just one place and have time to truly explore it. 

I'm so glad that I finally know what it's like to cruise on a giant ship, but next time, I'll probably take a plane.

Overall, my trip left me in awe. I learned there's nothing like looking out from the top deck and seeing only the ocean surrounding you.

But next time I want to visit the Caribbean, I'll take a plane to one place and explore it deeply. 

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The 4 newest royal caribbean ships.

Explore the newest amenities onboard including surf simulators, fine dining and more.

The Newest Royal Caribbean Ships

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean's highly anticipated Icon of the Seas is set to debut in 2024.

The world's biggest and most ambitious cruise lines never stop building out their fleet of ships, and Royal Caribbean International is no exception. The Florida-based cruise line currently boasts 28 incredible vessels for cruisers of all ages, including the four newest ships that have been added to the fleet since 2021. An even newer ship, Star of the Seas, is also being constructed with a planned launch date during the summer of 2025.

If you're interested in trying out one of the most over-the-top cruise ships sailing the world today, consider Royal Caribbean's newest vessels from the last few years. Read on to learn about the brand-new Icon of the Seas, the jaw-dropping action offered on the Wonder of the Seas, the Utopia of the Seas and the Odyssey of the Seas and all the amenities and unique experiences they have to offer.

Book a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea, a service of U.S. News.

Icon of the Seas

Scheduled to set sail in early 2024, the Icon of the Seas is one of the most celebrated and anticipated new cruise ships across all the major cruise lines. This Icon Class vessel was built to dazzle and entertain cruise passengers of all ages, and it features eight unique neighborhoods, seven pools and the largest waterpark at sea.

In total, Icon of the Seas offers 2,805 individual staterooms with space for 7,600 guests at maximum and 2,350 crew members. The vessel is 1,198 feet long with gross tonnage of 250,800.

• Sails to: The Icon of the Seas will offer alternating seven-night sailings between the Eastern and Western Caribbean. The vessel's Western Caribbean itinerary includes stops at Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, Roatan in Honduras and Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas . The alternative itinerary also stops at the cruise line's private island , as well as Basseterre in St. Kitts and Nevis and Charlotte Amelie in St. Thomas. All itineraries will depart from Miami .
• Cabin types: Cabins on the Icon of the Seas are spread across eight unique neighborhoods with their own themes and amenities. Cruisers will find the basic interior, ocean view and balcony staterooms they would expect. The ship also features 179 suites that vary in size and in terms of their features, with some really spacious and over-the-top options. For example, the vessel's Ultimate Family Townhouse (UL) is more than 1,700 square feet with three stories, a multi-level slide, an outdoor space with a ping pong table and more.
• Dining options: Icon of the Seas offers 11 included dining options plus room service that's available 24/7. There are also nine unique specialty restaurants on board, including options like Izumi Hibachi and Sushi, the Empire Supper Club and Chops Grille Steakhouse. A Starbucks is also available.
• Features: The Icon of the Seas boasts the largest cruise ship pool at sea, as well as seven pools and nine whirlpools in total. There are also six record-breaking waterslides located in what Royal Caribbean says is the largest waterpark at sea. Nightlife and entertainment options run the gamut from the ship's dueling piano bar to its jazz and blues club to its AquaTheater with mesmerizing shows that feature incredible diving feats and acrobatics.

Read: The Top Party Cruises

Utopia of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Utopia of the Seas is another vessel that is set to debut in 2024 with sailings from Port Canaveral, Florida. This Oasis Class ship will offer up a total of 2,834 guest rooms and is 1,188 feet in length and 236,860 gross tons in size.

The ship has space for 5,668 passengers at double occupancy and eight different neighborhoods with cabins for guests. Interestingly, this huge ship will not offer seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean and will instead focus on offering three-night and four-night itineraries, at least at first.

• Sails to: The all-new Utopia of the Seas will offer shorter sailings to the Bahamas. The ship's three-night sailings will stop only at the cruise line's private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, whereas four-night sailings from Port Canaveral stop at the cruise line's private island and at Nassau, Bahamas.
• Cabin types: The Utopia of the Seas has interior rooms, ocean view rooms and balcony rooms just like other ships. Upgraded room options also abound and include a range of luxury suites at sea. For example, you can book the iconic Ultimate Family Suite, a Solarium Suite with Wraparound Windows, a Royal Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: There are 10 different included dining experiences on the Utopia of the Seas, with room service also offered 24 hours a day. These include a Main Dining Room experience, several cafe options, a pizzeria, a coastal kitchen with California and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine and more. In addition, there are 10 different specialty restaurants that can also be booked on the Utopia of the Seas, and a Starbucks is on board. Special dining experiences include a hibachi and sushi restaurant, a seafood restaurant, a Chef's Table experience for up to 16 diners at a time, a Johnny Rockets and more.
• Features: Utopia of the Seas has everything you would expect in a new Oasis Class ship from Royal Caribbean. For example, passengers will find five huge pools, eight hot tubs, three water slides, 23 different bars and two on-board casinos. Other features include an ice-skating rink, two rock climbing walls, a zip line, a basketball court, two FlowRider Surf simulators and of course the line's famous AquaTheater. Like other Royal Caribbean ships, Utopia of the Seas also features special spaces for kids and teens, including dedicated clubs, an Imagination Studio and an on-board arcade.

Read: The Largest Cruise Ships in the World

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Wonder of the Seas

Sailing the friendly seas since March 2022, the Wonder of the Seas boasts more individual rooms and suites than Icon of the Seas. The Oasis-class ship features 2,867 staterooms with a total guest capacity of 7,084. There are also eight unique neighborhoods for cruisers to choose from, each with its own decor and flair.

This Royal Caribbean vessel is also huge at 1,188 feet long and 235,600 gross tons. A total of 2,204 crew members run the ship and assist guests.

• Sails to: Wonder of the Seas is currently sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida and offers seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. The Eastern itinerary includes stops in Charlotte Amelie, St. Thomas and Phillipsburg, St. Maarten as well as Perfect Day at CocoCay. Meanwhile, the Western loop stops at the cruise line's private island as well as Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico and Roatan, Honduras.
• Cabin types: Wonder of the Seas also offers all the normal cabin types you would expect, including interior rooms, sea view rooms and balcony staterooms. There are also over-the-top suites to choose from, including an Ultimate Family Suite, a Royal Suite, an Owner's Suite and more.
• Dining options: Nine complimentary dining options are included on the Wonder of the Seas, with a main dining room, a buffet option and plenty of other eateries available to grab a bite to eat. There are also 11 unique specialty restaurants on board, including a steakhouse and a seafood restaurant, a Johnny Rockets, a sushi and hibachi restaurant and Giovanni's Italian Kitchen and Wine Bar. For coffee lovers, a Starbucks is also on board.
• Features: The Wonder of the Seas has its own Central Park, along with 11 different bars, as well as special kids and teens-only areas like a social club and an arcade. Other notable features include the vessel's AquaTheater, rock-climbing walls, whirlpools, laser tag and more. There are also 19 swimming pools, an ice rink and a casino on the Wonder of the Seas.

Read: The Top Cruises for Teens

Odyssey of the Seas

Royal Caribbean's Odyssey of the Seas is a Quantum Ultra Class cruise ship that's smaller than the other newest vessels from the line. The impressive ship completed its first sailing in 2021 when it became the first ship of its class to sail from the United States. Odyssey of the Seas currently departs from Fort Lauderdale, Florida and other ports and offers a range of six-night and seven-night sailings throughout the Caribbean in the coming months.

Up to 4,198 guests can sail on the Odyssey of the Seas with double occupancy, and 1,612 crew members are on board to tend to their every need. The ship is approximately 1,138 feet long and is 167,704 gross tons.

• Sails to: Odyssey of the Seas will depart from various ports in the United States and elsewhere in the world in the coming years. For example, there are upcoming six-night sailings from Fort Lauderdale that include stops in Labadee, Haiti and Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic in addition to Perfect Day at CocoCay. The vessel will complete a 14-day transatlantic cruise in April and May of 2024, which begins in Fort Lauderdale and ends in Rome, Italy. From there, the vessel will offer Greek Islands cruises from Rome before moving back to Cape Liberty (New York), New Jersey in the fall of 2024. At that point, itineraries will include stops in Port Canaveral, Florida, Nassau in the Bahamas and Perfect Day at CocoCay.
• Cabin types: Odyssey of the Seas offers interior staterooms, ocean view rooms and balcony staterooms. Guests can also book interior rooms with a virtual balcony that boasts a floor-to-ceiling virtual view of the outdoors. Over-the-top suites available on the Odyssey include an Owner's Loft Suite, a Royal Loft Suite, a Grand Loft Suite and more.
• Dining options: As a smaller vessel with considerably fewer passengers than Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class and Icon Class ships, Odyssey of the Seas has fewer dining options overall. Guests can dine at seven included eateries including a main dining room, a bistro, a cafe and the main ship buffet. There are also seven specialty restaurants and experiences on board including the Chef's Table, a Chops Grille and a sushi and hibachi restaurant. Like other newer ships from Royal Caribbean, the Odyssey also has its own Starbucks.
• Features: The Odyssey has eight dedicated bars and lounges on board, bumper cars, laser tag, a rock-climbing wall, an outdoor movie screen and a casino, along with kid and teen features like an arcade, a kids' splash area and a social club. A FlowRider surf simulator is on board, as well as a sky diving simulator. Note that the Odyssey of the Seas doesn't have an AquaTheater like Oasis Class ships.

Find a Royal Caribbean cruise on GoToSea.

Look Out for Star of the Seas

Royal Caribbean is already offering limited information about its newest ship, the Star of the Seas. This vessel will also be an Icon Class ship like the Icon of the Seas, meaning it will be big and beautiful with all the bells and whistles.

The Star of the Seas is scheduled to debut in 2025.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Holly Johnson is a travel expert and content creator who has covered cruises and other family travel for more than a decade. She has cruised dozens of times with most of the major cruise lines and has ventured on itineraries throughout the Caribbean, Europe and the Middle East. Johnson used her personal experience and research expertise to write this article, along with information provided by Royal Caribbean.

You might also be interested in:

• What to Pack for a Cruise
• Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival
• Cruise Line Drink Packages
• First-Time Cruise Tips
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Tags: Travel , Cruises , Royal Caribbean Cruises

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