Dreaming of the freedom and adventure of a bare boat charter in the British Virgin Islands but have never sailed before?
In this blog you will learn:
- How to have the freedom of a bare boat charter in the BVIs when you don’t know a genoa from a mainsail.
- What kind of boat to select.
- How to create your safe, dream itinerary with no knowledge of the area.
Remember to read to the end:
- So that you have all the information you need to make that BVI charter dream a reality.
- And to receive your free gift.
So, without further adieu, let’s dive into the sundrenched, turquoise waters of our charter grounds.
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) boast some of the most stunning sailing grounds in the world, and the idea of bareboat chartering a catamaran, even for those with limited sailing experience, can be a thrilling prospect. While sailing proficiency is typically a prerequisite for bareboat charters, there are avenues for novices to explore this unique adventure. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of bareboat chartering a cat in the BVI, even if you’re not an experienced sailor.
- Take a Sailing Course on Your Own Schedule Without Breaking the Bank: Before embarking on your bareboat charter, consider taking a basic sailing course. While it may not make you an expert sailor, it will provide you with fundamental knowledge of sailing principles, navigation, and safety protocols. One of the most convenient and economical ways of doing this is by taking and on-line course or even a Virtual Reality lessons, especially if the program in accordance with the Royal Yachting Association or American Sailing Association is affiliated with in-water schools in the area you will be chartering. Numerous sailing schools operate in the BVI, offering condensed practical courses tailored to beginners. But having the theoretical knowledge nailed down before you go enriches your learning experience, accelerates your confidence, and gets you sailing your freedom dream far faster.
- Consider a Captain or a Condensed Sailing Course for the First Few Days: If you’re not entirely comfortable with the idea of sailing on your own, many charter companies offer the option of hiring a captain for the initial days of your trip. This experienced sailor can provide hands-on guidance, offering valuable insights into navigating the local waters and handling the catamaran. Also look for companies that offer condensed, hands on, in-water training that is an extension of the on-line sailing school you have attended. Some advanced work online combined with an in-water course at the beginning of your charter will lead to the vacation of a lifetime and an open door to chartering in confidence anywhere in the world!
- Master Basic Sailing Skills: Before setting sail, familiarize yourself with basic sailing skills such as raising and lowering sails, steering, and docking. Most charter companies provide comprehensive briefings and walkthroughs, ensuring you feel confident operating the catamaran. The course you take or captain you hire will ensure you are competent and confident in these areas.
- Choose a Charter Company with Novice-Friendly Options: Some charter companies specialize in catering to novice sailors. Look for companies that provide thorough briefings, assistance with itinerary planning, and on-call support throughout your journey. This ensures you have the necessary resources to navigate the BVI waters confidently.
- Choose the Right Catamaran: Selecting the appropriate catamaran is crucial, especially if you’re not an experienced sailor. Opt for a catamaran that is user-friendly, easy to handle, and equipped with modern navigation aids. Many charter companies offer catamarans with features like power winches, low, easily reachable booms, central line control at the helm, and lower or mid-level helms, as opposed to separated fly bridges, which simplify sailing tasks.
- Plan a Simple Itinerary: Keep your sailing itinerary straightforward, at least for the first few days. Opt for shorter distances between anchorages and marinas, allowing you to gradually acclimate to the rhythm of sailing. The BVI offers numerous sheltered anchorages and mooring fields, making it an ideal destination for beginners. Often your charter company can offer you pre-designed itineraries and can help you customise them to suite your exact desires.
- Utilize Modern Navigation Tools: Leverage the benefits of modern navigation tools available on the catamaran. GPS, chart plotters, and autopilots can simplify navigation tasks, providing you with real-time information about your position and surroundings. Familiarize yourself with these tools during the charter briefing.
- Communicate with Charter Company Staff: Maintain open communication with the charter company staff. Discuss your concerns, ask questions, and seek advice. Charter companies are invested in ensuring their clients have a positive experience, and they are often willing to offer guidance and support throughout your journey.
- Stay Informed about Local Conditions: The BVI features generally favorable sailing conditions, but it’s essential to stay informed about local weather patterns and sea conditions. Check weather forecasts regularly and adhere to safety guidelines to ensure a smooth and secure sailing experience.
- Emergency Preparedness: Be well-prepared for emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of safety equipment on the catamaran, understand emergency procedures, and have a means of communication readily available. Charter companies typically provide thorough safety briefings to ensure you are well-prepared for any unexpected situations.

Bareboat chartering a catamaran in the British Virgin Islands, even for those with limited sailing experience, is an achievable and rewarding adventure.
By selecting the right catamaran, taking a basic sailing course, and leveraging the support of charter companies, you can set sail with confidence.
Whether you choose to hire a captain for the initial days or opt for a more hands-on approach, the BVI offers a sailing playground that is both forgiving and breathtaking.
Embrace the learning process, savor the beauty of the islands, and let the gentle winds guide you through an unforgettable bareboat charter experience in the Caribbean.
So, take the first step to making your BVI dream a reality and get the affordable, convenient sailing training you need buy starting with a proven online solution that I have personally enjoyed taking and found to be a fantastic way to prepare for, and get the most out of the more costly on-water courses you will eventually participate in.
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For full transparency, I just want to disclose that I am an affiliate of this sailing education program, which means that if you purchase through my link, I may receive a commission at no additional cost to you. However, my endorsement of this product is genuine, and I believe it can be incredibly beneficial to you.
Feel free to DM me on Facebook if you have any questions or topics for future How-to or Review videos.
Till then, head on over to the YouTube Channel, NavalGazingatCampDavid to view more valuable content designed to make your sailing dreams a reality!
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