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US Virgin Islands Resorts vs Sailing Vacations

The USVI attracts a wide range of tourists seeking differing vacation styles. While staying at US Virgin Island resorts may be the right choice for some, for those who seek adventure and a unique experience, a sailing vacation might be a better option. Here is our comparison of resorts vs sailing vacations:

Resort Vacations: Comfort Meets Convenience

Advantages: Staying at US Virgin Island resorts has several perks. First, resorts often offer a variety of amenities in one spot such as a private beach, restaurants, and a spa. This can be handy as some travelers find managing logistics in a new place overwhelming. Likewise, some prefer the predictability of resorts vs sailing vacations. Resorts can be a better choice for those with limited mobility because they focus on convenience and accessibility. For instance, they commonly feature amenities for individuals with limited mobility, such as elevators.

Disadvantages: On the other hand, resorts inevitably offer a more generic experience, with restaurants that lack authenticity, and excursions to the busiest sites. Additionally, the US Virgins has very few resorts that can become crowded, especially during peak season. This often results in noisier rooms, beaches, and restaurants, which conflicts with the objective of a luxurious experience. Furthermore, if the resort is all-inclusive, guests may not find many chances to seek off-the-beaten-path experiences. 

Sailing Vacations: Adventure and Freedom

Advantages: When you choose an exhilarating sailing vacation, you open up endless possibilities to discover hidden gems, like secluded beaches that are only accessible by boat. Likewise, you can make your own itinerary, going to the spots that interest you rather than the ones that are full of resort guests. And for travelers who crave a more exclusive island vacation, living on a sailboat means you can escape from the crowds and sleep surrounded by lapping waves and open sky.

Disadvantages: Sailing is not the right choice for everyone. Sailboats are not ideal for people with limited mobility, and children need extra supervision at sea. Also, if you do not charter a sailboat with a crew, you must take responsibility for sailing and operating the boat. Unlike resort stays, you will have to make all the decisions about where you want to go, how to get there, and what to eat. Many sailors, however, prefer this sense of freedom.

Learn to Sail While Exploring the USVI

While US Virgin Island resorts offer unmatched convenience, a sailing vacation in the USVI delivers adventure, freedom, and a closer connection to the islands’ natural beauty and rich history. And, if you take a liveaboard sailing course, you will have the added benefit of learning a valuable new skill. On Go Sail Virgin Island‘s learn-to-sail vacations, you will cruise around the islands while earning ASA certifications which will allow you to sail your own vessel in the future. Our instructors are not only experts at teaching new sailors, but they also know how to show you the best of the islands, making your vacation unforgettable.