What yacht charter are you looking for?
USVI Yacht Charter
A USVI yacht charter is one of the most effortless ways to experience the Caribbean. With direct flights from major U.S. cities into St. Thomas, you can be on the dock in Charlotte Amalie and underway within hours.
We recommend exploring highlights like St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix—whether it’s snorkeling at Trunk Bay, the calm waters of Caneel Bay, or the laid-back charm of Christiansted and Frederiksted.
Unlike the BVI, which is heavily catamaran-dominated, the USVI has developed a strong fleet of luxury motor yachts in recent years, thanks to better infrastructure, deep-water marinas, and access to top-tier provisioning. These yachts often come equipped with Jacuzzis, gyms, full water toy setups—including jet skis, which are legal here (and not in the BVI).
Most charters include both territories. It’s an easy cruise to Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Norman Island, and Jost Van Dyke—just make sure your yacht is properly licensed for BVI waters. We’ll guide you through all of that.
Start the Search for Your Perfect USVI Yacht Charter
Several of our brokers have crewed or sailed in the Virgin Islands themselves, and we’re on the ground at the USVI yacht shows every year. We know the yachts, we know the crews, and we stay up to date on what’s actually worth booking. Reach out and we’ll make sure you get the right yacht!
Why Charter in the US Virgin Islands?
1
World-Class
Diving & Snorkeling
The US Virgin Islands are world famous for their clear, turquoise water, ideal for underwater exploration. There is a lot to see: vibrant coral reefs teeming with fish, turtles, rays, and reef sharks.
Chartering one of our many yachts featuring onboard scuba gear gives you easy access to some of the best dive sites in the Caribbean, including iconic locations like Trunk Bay, Buck Island, and the RMS Rhone wreck.
If diving isn’t your cup of tea, the shallow waters of the Virgin Islands are also perfect for snorkeling or even exploring the reef from the comfort of a paddleboard.
2
The Caribbean’s
Biggest Yacht Selection
The US Virgin Islands offer a diverse selection of crewed yachts, including catamarans, motor yachts, and superyachts. The only place that really compares is the Mediterranean, but on this side of the Atlantic, the US Virgin Islands are ahead.
The US Â Virgin Islands is especially a popular destination for luxury travel, and in the last few years, we have seen a significant increase in larger motor yachts to satisfy the many who are seeking a more extravagant charter vacation.
(The USVI holds one major advantage over the BVI: Its water is much deeper, allowing for larger yachts. This is why almost all larger motor yachts are based in the USVI, even those that charter in the BVI.)
3
Itineraries inc. both
USVI & BVI
Our yacht charters in the Virgin Islands often combine both the US and British Virgin Islands, offering a diverse itinerary and the chance to see more amazing destinations.
Starting and ending in Yacht Haven Grand on St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, charterers can hop across the border with a quick immigration check-in and explore popular destinations in the BVI, such as Norman Island, Tortola, Peter’s Island, and Virgin Gorda.
It’s worth noting that many larger yachts, even if chartered in the BVI, commence from Charlotte Amalie Harbor in the USVI, as the harbors in the BVI are too shallow to host large yachts.
Top USVI Yachts 2025
NAUTI NICKEL
AQUANOVA
TOP FIVE II
Nefesh
AEOLUS 77
Top Shelf
SOUTH
ASPEN ALTERNATIVE
OHANA
Where to Go on Your USVI Yacht Charter?
Out of the many places we offer yacht charters, we are confident in claiming that the US Virgin Islands (USVI) offer some of the most sought-after destinations in the Caribbean. From the natural beauty of St. John, with its secluded beaches, lush hillsides, and captivating hiking trails, to the vibrant culture of St. Thomas, home to the bustling capital of Charlotte Amalie, there is something for every craving.
And remember, there is also the option to expand your cruising ground to include the British Virgin Islands next door, with famous destinations such as the Baths National Park on Virgin Gorda, Tortola Island, Jost Van Dyke, and many more.
Contact one of our expert brokers to learn more about what yachts have the paperwork to cruise between the two island groups.
How to Select the Right Yacht
When selecting a yacht, there are several factors that should be considered:
- What is the right yacht speed for the itinerary you are planning?
- Will your yacht be able to enter the British Virgin Islands territory?
- What yacht is right for the Virgin Islands’ shallow waters?
- What do you want in terms of onboard amenities and water toys?
Our Charter Brokers bring extensive firsthand experience, having served as crew members, captains, or chefs on yachts in the past. This knowledge equips them with the insight needed to assist you in making the perfect decision for your US Virgin Island yacht charter.
But let’s take a closer look at the different yacht types and their advantages:
Catamaran Charters in the USVI
Catamarans are the more affordable choice, offering more space compared to monohulls. Their shallow draft allows them to navigate in the shallow waters around the USVI and the BVI, significantly increasing their cruising grounds.
We are also seeing catamarans becoming bigger and more luxurious, and they are now starting to compare to some larger motor yachts in terms of space and amenities.
Explore our Full USVI Catamaran Charter Guider→
Motor Yacht Charters in the USVI
Motor yachts are the choice for those who wish to see more in a shorter time. The higher speed of motor yachts gives you more flexibility, and you can simply fit more into your itinerary.
You can find motor yachts of all sizes, ranging from small motorboats suitable for bareboat charters to mega superyachts with luxurious amenities like jet skis, Jacuzzis, scuba gear, and onboard cinemas.
Explore our Full USVI Motor Yacht Charter Guide→
Sailing Yacht Charters in the USVI
Sailing yachts are also available and are a great option for those who wish for a more traditional experience with sailing in focus—the weather conditions are definitely ideal for it!
But sailing yachts also do come with some limitations, as the water in the Virgin Islands, especially in the British Virgin Islands, is very shallow, and monohulls generally are deep drafted, limiting where they can go and how close to the beaches they can anchor.
Explore our Full USVI Sailing Yacht Charter Guide→
How Much Does a USVI Yacht Charter Cost?
When planning a luxury yacht charter in the U.S. Virgin Islands, here’s what you need to know about pricing and additional fees:
Base Charter Rate:
From $15,000 to $100,000+ per week, depending on yacht size, type (catamaran, motor yacht, sailing), and season. All prices are for private crewed charters.
There are two types of yacht charter charges:
- All-InclusiveÂ
- Plus Expense (+APA):
What’s Included in an All-Inclusive Charter?
- Private yacht with crew (Captain + Chef or more)
- All meals and drinks (alcohol varies by yacht)
- Water toys (SUPs, snorkel gear, etc.)
- Local cruising fuel
- Taxes and port fees (most included in price)
What’s Payable in a Plus Expense Charter?
- A base charter fee (covers the yacht and crew)
- APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance (Covers food, fuel, alcohol, docking, and other spending during the charter) of 20-35% of the base charter fee
- USVI Yacht Charter Tax (VAT) of 12.5% of the base charter fee
- Crew Gratuity (often calculated in the APA) of 15-20% of the base charter fee
Typical Costs at a Glance:
| Yacht Type | Price (Per Week) | Guests | Inclusions |
| Catamarans | $15,000–$80,000 | 6–10 guests | All-inclusive, crewed |
| Motor Yachts | $40,000–$150,000+ | 6–12 guests | Often plus expenses (APA) |
| Sailing Yachts | $18,000–$60,000 | 6–12 guests | Mostly all-inclusive |
Our Favorite Destinations in the US Virgin Islands
Maho Bay
Located on the northern shores of St. John, Maho Bay offers a serene retreat for yacht charters seeking respite in the beautiful nature. With its turquoise water and white beach voted “Visitor’s Favorite Beach,” Maho Bay provides an ideal setting for both relaxation and exploration. Charter guests can also enjoy activities such as snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, kayaking, or paddleboarding along the coastline.
Our #1 recommendation for Maho Bay is a snorkeling trip to see the sea turtles and rays that feed in the sea grass just off the beach.
Along the eastern shoreline running out to the point separating Little Maho from Maho Bay Beach, you will find patches of reef with a wide variety of corals and abundant marine life. The water is shallow (between 3 to 10 feet deep), giving snorkelers easy access to the coral, which includes species such as purple sea fans, sponges, anemones, and hard corals like Mustard coral, brain corals, and Elkhorn. You will also find a diverse fish life, with many varieties of wrasse, damsel, tangs, parrot fish, angelfish, and lionfish.
Along the western shoreline between Maho and Cinnamon Bay, you will also find excellent snorkeling opportunities, with coral and fish becoming more plentiful further from the beach. Snorkeling in shallow waters ranging from 3 to 12 feet deep, even novice snorkelers can enjoy a variety of marine life. While snorkeling, keep an eye out for Nurse sharks, which are slow-moving and not a threat but should not be disturbed.
Coral Habor
Located on the eastern shores of St. John in Coral Bay, Coral Harbor is a premier destination for yacht charters, offering a mix of natural beauty, cultural charm, and recreational opportunities.
Coral Bay Harbor is renowned for its vibrant local culture and community. Yacht charter guests can explore the charming waterfront village, where colorful shops, galleries, and restaurants showcase the island’s rich heritage and artistic spirit. From sampling local cuisine to browsing handcrafted goods, there’s plenty to enjoy in Coral Bay Harbor.
For those seeking adventure, Coral Bay Harbor offers a variety of recreational activities, such as guided snorkeling excursions to nearby reefs, as well as Kayaking and Paddleboarding.
Beyond the harbor, the surrounding landscape offers plenty of opportunity for exploration. Yacht charter guests can hike scenic trails that wind through lush tropical forests, leading to hidden waterfalls and panoramic viewpoints. Birdwatching, nature photography, and eco-tours are also popular ways to experience the natural beauty of Coral Bay Harbor and its surrounding areas.
Caneel Bay
Located on the northern coast of St. John, Caneel Bay is one of St. John’s top chartering destinations offering a whole 7 secluded beaches and over 170 acres of protected land.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Caneel Bay offers an array of recreational activities. Yacht charter guests can partake in snorkeling excursions to explore the vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life, while kayaking and paddleboarding allow for leisurely exploration of the bay’s tranquil waters.
Caneel Bay is committed to environmental conservation and sustainability, with guided eco-tours providing insights into the region’s rich biodiversity and conservation efforts. Hiking trails wind through the resort’s lush grounds, offering opportunities to observe indigenous flora and fauna in their natural habitat.
For those seeking relaxation, Caneel Bay Beach Club offers Cabana rentals for a day of beachside lounging. Guests can also indulge in an extensive menu of exotic cocktails, perfect for unwinding under the Caribbean sun.
Francis Bay
Visit Francis Bay and you will find yourself on one of St. John’s longest beaches. This beautiful beach has calm waters and a lovely, sandy shore. On weekdays, this beach is not too crowded, and it is easy to find a private spot.
The Francis Bay Trail runs along the salt pond located just inland of the beach and is an excellent place for bird watching, especially early in the morning.
The best snorkeling in Francis Bay can be found on the eastern and western ends. They provide some ideal snorkeling opportunities. It’s not uncommon to see green sea turtles near the seagrass beds on this part of Francis Bay Beach.
You can also find other marine life common in the Virgin Islands like rays, colorful fish like honeycomb cowfish and butterflyfish, and plenty of coral. If you’re lucky you might catch sight of squid. You need to diligently look out for them as they’re not always easy to spot among the many different places in the Virgin Islands National Park.
How to Get to the US Virgin Island
A yacht charter vacation to the US Virgin Islands is both fantastic and convenient. Positioned in close proximity to the US mainland, the USVI provides easy accessibility for travelers, with frequent direct flights from major hubs like Miami, New York City, Boston, and more.
One distinct advantage of selecting the USVI as your yacht charter destination is its status as US territory. This ensures a smooth and stress-free experience for charter guests, as they encounter no hurdles with border crossings or unfamiliar customs procedures.
Where to Stay in the US Virgin Islands
For those looking to extend their stay before or after their yacht charter and explore the land, the USVI offers many accommodations that meet US standards of luxury and comfort. Unlike the British Virgin Islands (BVI), where villas are more common, the USVI has numerous hotels and luxury resorts operated by well-known US chains.
TOP 5 BEST PLACES TO STAY IN THE USVI:
BH
Beth Hecimovich
Jan 05, 2024
Daniel and Martina were outstanding and helped us execute the trip of a lifetime ! Very responsive and available to assist with anything and everything. They made sure that every detail was addressed and that our family was treated well. We have worked with other Charter Brokers in the past and DMA Yachting service and knowledge was far superior. Highly recommend.
S
Skye
Jan 08, 2024
Chris was incredibly helpful in our first charter experience every step of the way. He helped us select the right boat, walked us through all the options available to us and helped ensure that we had an incredibly memorable experience. Thank you to the entire team for making our New Years celebration once in a lifetime! We are already looking forward to planning our next charter through DMA.
What Our Clients Say
Our clients speak of unparalleled service, exquisite yachts, and a seamless booking process, highlighting the excellence of their charter experiences in the US Virgin Islands.
Talk to Someone Who Knows the USVI
Many of our brokers have sailed the USVI themselves, either privately or as former captains and crew in the charter business. Both Daniel and John have sailed extensively in the Caribbean, including the USVI, on their own catamarans, and Marcelle worked many years in the Virgin Islands as a chef onboard charter yachts. We will give you the real deal.
Daniel Asmus
Owner, Charter Broker, Active CYBA Member, IYBA, ECPY
+34 678 368 304
+1 (814) 564-5550
