The Caribbean is the ultimate sailing holiday — but not for everyone. It requires a long flight or a private jet, a larger budget, and the right timing (outside hurricane season). Those who plan these three points properly experience the clearest water, the most consistent wind, and the most relaxed sailing atmosphere in the world. The British Virgin Islands (BVI), St. Barts and the Grenadines are the three top destinations that attract more European guests each year.
Why the Caribbean? An Overview
- Trade winds: 15–25 knots ENE, year-round constant — perfect for beginners and experienced sailors
- Season: November–April (dry season, no hurricane risk, pleasant 26–29°C)
- Hurricane season: Avoid June–November — most charter companies operate at reduced capacity or close
- Water: 26–29°C, visibility up to 30+ metres — snorkelling and diving at world-class level
- Atmosphere: No stress, no traffic, none of Europe's overcrowded anchorage restrictions
The 5 Best Caribbean Sailing Destinations
British Virgin Islands (BVI) — the classic Caribbean charter ground
The BVI are the global centre of bareboat charter with over 700 charter yachts based at Tortola. Characteristic: short crossings (2–4 hours), perfectly sheltered bays, calm seas. Highlights: The Baths on Virgin Gorda (giant granite boulders), Norman Island (pirates' treasure island), The Bight, Willy T's (floating restaurant). Airport: Beef Island (EIS) — 30 minutes from Puerto Rico (SJU), 3 hours from Miami.
| Anchorage | Highlight | Crossing from Tortola |
|---|---|---|
| The Baths (Virgin Gorda) | UNESCO rock formations, crystal pools | 1.5h |
| Norman Island | Cave snorkelling, pirate history | 1.5h |
| Cooper Island Beach Club | Eco-resort, best rum bar in the BVI | 1h |
| Anegada (Horseshoe Reef) | Coral ring, flamingo colony, lobster fishing | 3h |
| Jost Van Dyke (Foxy's) | Legendary beach bar, world-famous New Year's Eve | 1h |
St. Barts — the Monaco of the Caribbean
St. Barts is the most expensive and exclusive island in the Caribbean. Gustavia harbour: 80+ superyachts in December–January. Private jet direct to SBH (Gustaf III Airport) — the runway is only 650m long with a hilltop the pilot must clear in visual flight. Unique. No mass tourism, no public sun loungers, boutiques from Hermès to Bulgari. Weekly charter of a 20m motor yacht: €40,000–80,000.
Grenadines — the undiscovered gem
Bequia, Mustique, Canouan, Tobago Cays — the Grenadines are the secret favourite of experienced Caribbean sailors. Mustique is a private island (David Bowie lived there, Mick Jagger owns a house). Tobago Cays: UNESCO marine reserve, turtle nesting ground, crystal-clear water. No mass tourism. Airports: Canouan (CIW), Bequia (BQU) — connecting flight from Barbados (BGI).
Price Table: Caribbean Charter (7 nights, peak season)
| Boat type | Size | Pax | Price/week | APA (20%) | Total |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Catamaran Bareboat | 44 ft | 8 | €6,500 | €1,300 | €7,800 |
| Catamaran Skippered | 48 ft | 8 | €9,500 | €1,900 | €11,400 |
| Sailing Yacht Crewed | 50 ft | 6 | €12,000 | €2,400 | €14,400 |
| Motor Yacht 16m | 52 ft | 8 | €22,000 | €5,500 | €27,500 |
| Luxury Catamaran | 60 ft | 10 | €28,000 | €5,600 | €33,600 |
| Superyacht 30m | 100 ft | 12 | €65,000 | €16,250 | €81,250 |
Private Jet to the Caribbean: Key Routes
| Departure | Destination | Aircraft | Flight time | Approx. cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Frankfurt (FRA) | St. Maarten (SXM) | Ultra Heavy (G700) | 9h 30min | €95,000–130,000 |
| Munich (MUC) | Barbados (BGI) | Ultra Heavy | 10h 00min | €100,000–140,000 |
| London (LCY) | Antigua (ANU) | Heavy jet | 8h 30min | €75,000–105,000 |
| Miami (MIA) | St. Barts (SBH) | Midsize jet | 3h 00min | €18,000–28,000 |
| Fort Lauderdale (FLL) | BVI (EIS) | Light jet | 2h 40min | €14,000–22,000 |
FAQ: Caribbean Yacht Charter
Do you need a sailing licence for the BVI?
For bareboat, a recognised licence (ICC, RYA Coastal Skipper or equivalent) plus a logbook is generally required. The BVI are more relaxed than Croatia — but the major agencies (Moorings, Sunsail, Leopard) check logbooks. For skippered or crewed: no licence needed.
When should you NOT go to the Caribbean?
June to November is hurricane season. Most charter companies pull yachts from service in August–September. St. Barts and the southern Grenadines are statistically less at risk than the northern Caribbean (BVI). Plan for December–April. Peak: Christmas–New Year and January–March.
Catamaran or sailing yacht for the Caribbean?
Catamaran — almost always. The BVI typically have calm water and steady trade winds. A catamaran provides more living space, less rolling at anchor, a flat deck. Families, groups of 6+, and anyone prioritising comfort over sailing experience: catamaran. For active sailing with more heel: sailing yacht.
→ Catamaran Charter: Costs and Charter Guide
→ Yacht Charter Costs: Complete Price Guide
→ Private jet to the Caribbean + yacht charter — enquire now
