So you’ve either visited the Virgin Islands or have read enough about it where you feel confident enough to bring up the idea of chartering a boat there. But what you’re not confident about is actually planning that trip. Your head is filled with questions, but you can’t seem to even struggle past the first one; where do I begin?
I’m here to help you with that seemingly daunting task of planning your trip for you and the others joining you. I’ll leave it up to you to gather your friends together, pick a date, and all those other personal details, but I can at least point you in the right direction.
1. Know your Skills
Although you might have watched movies and YouTube videos of people raising the sails and maneuvering the boat with precision and thought, “I can do that”, you may be biting off more than you can chew. Sailing a boat is more than just turning the wheel in the direction you need to go and calling it a day; there are a number of problems you can run into with no one for miles to help. I’m not trying to scare anyone away, just making sure everyone is ready for this great adventure your about to endure. Sailing lessons are also available for anyone trying to polish their rusty skills, or you can even hire a captain so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.
2. Choose the Area
The Caribbean is made up of a variety of islands that come in all shapes, sizes, and eco systems. Some areas might be easier to sail than others, so keep in mind where you want to go. Also, keep in mind that you if you sail outside of the USVI, you’ll have to educate yourself on the customs and immigration of that area. Need to do some research? Check out these links to read more:
3. Pick a Date
Picking a date is more important than a decision you made on a whim because “you had some vacation days”; it’s all about weather patterns. The last thing you want is to have your vacation cut short because of a nasty summer storm rolling through. In the Caribbean, the summer might be cheaper, and that is because it’s hurricane season. Do you research on weather patterns to figure out when sunny skies and decent winds are rolling through. It might not be guaranteed, but at least it’s a guide line.
4. Find a Company
One of the many great things about the Virgin Islands is that they are not short of yacht charter
companies to work with. Many companies will help you plan your vacation and answer any
questions you may have along the way.
5. Make a Game Plan
A. Be Realistic
If you want to sail the boat yourself and you envision your trip to be you on the boat deck sipping rum punch and not having a care in the world, think again. There will be times to relax, but there will also be times you’ll have to work hard. Also, you might not have a warm shower your whole trip, and rocky waters might make you a little seasick. If you prepare yourself for these not-so-pretty details, you’ll end up having a better time.
B. Do You Want to Sail Yourself, or do You Want a Crew
Now, if you don’t want to give up the vision of you sipping rum punch on the boat deck all day, then you don’t have to! Get a captain, or for large boats with many people, get a crew. This will cost more, but it might be worth it for those of you who want to snorkel, drink, and not have a care in the world. (Cold showers may still be included)
C. Can they Provision the Boat for You?
A lot of companies offer boat provisioning before your arrival. Make sure you talk to arrange that before hand.
D. Make Lodging Arrangements Before and After Your Charter
You should always give yourself an extra day before and after you charter to make traveling less stressful and just in case of delays.
E. Make Flying Arrangements for You and Your Guests
If you’re traveling with a group of people, make sure everyone is on the same page. Make flight, hotel, and other travel arrangements together to ensure everyone arrives on time.
6. Pack Accordingly
Many people make the mistake by over packing for their boat trip. They also make the mistake on not packing enough of the right things either. Check out a few of these links below to get the best packing list
7. Don’t Stress
Remember that this is still a vacation, so have fun! Think back to when the idea first popped into
your head and appreciate that you were able to execute your plan and make your dream a reality.
Hopefully after you were done reading this, the anxiety subsided and the adventurer in you got butterflies. No, chartering a boat isn’t for everyone, but for those of you who have the dream can surely accomplish it!
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| Have fun! |
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