All Your Virgin Islands Sailing Questions Answered
We’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked sailing questions we receive from clients before, during, and after their Virgin Islands sailing vacation. Through videos, quick answer drop-downs, and longer form articles, we are sure you’ll find the answers you need for your US Virgin Islands or British Virgin Islands sailing trip here!
Our goal is to provide you with all the sailing information you need before you arrive so you can step aboard your Virgin Islands sailboat confident, prepared, and ready to learn. Notice important sailing information we’re missing on this page? Contact us so we can provide you with an answer and add it to our sailing FAQ!
Planning Your Virgin Islands Sailing Vacation
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Go Sail Virgin Islands is the top-rated Virgin Islands sailing school for good reason. We provide our ASA students and bareboat charter customers with reliable boats, top-notch instruction, and consistent communication. We do everything in our power to ensure your trip is a 5-star experience!
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- Hats
- Sun-Shirts (we have a great selection of sailing gear!)
- Gloves
- Wind-breakers
- Warm weather clothing
- Light long sleeve shirts for nighttime
- Non-restricting pants
- Clean deck shoes
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Generally, it is best to stick to one carry-on sized bag per person, if you are sharing a cabin, or two carry-on sized bags if you have your own cabin. You are free to bring larger suitcases but it might take a bit more work to fit everything comfortably in your cabin. Soft-sided bags are also easier to store, especially on monohulls that have slightly less storage space available.
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Cell phone service is often sporadic in the Virgin Islands. Cell service is usually best with AT&T, but Verizon and T-Mobile can be pretty limited. Sometimes, even when sailing in the USVI, your phone will switch over to BVI tours and international fees with your cellphone provider may apply.
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The Virgin Islands is known for its “champagne sailing”— we have the best weather conditions for learning to sail! Consistent winds, beautiful skies, and warm water and temperatures make the Virgin Islands an ideal place to sail. The Virgin Islands are also a short trip from the US mainland and US citizens don’t need a passport to sail in the USVI!
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You can wear shoes on the deck of the boat if they haven’t been worn outside before. However, we generally recommend going barefoot on board!
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We will provision your sailboat prior to your arrival for all ASA course bookings. If you let us know of any dietary restrictions when you book your trip, we will do our best to shop with your restrictions in mind and let you know if there are specific items we can’t get. Some items are expensive or difficult to find in the Virgin Islands so we recommend bringing your own coffee and creamer, if you are particular, and any special treats you can’t live without! Here are some additional items you’ll want to pack for your Virgin Islands sailing vacation:
- Textbooks
- Printed exams, completed to the best of your ability
- Sea sickness medications and remedies (if you think you may need them)
- Snorkeling Gear
- Sunscreen (ocean-friendly and non-aerosol)
- A bluetooth speaker
- Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, and other toiletries
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WiFi is available at many Virgin Island ports and sometimes on the vessel, however, there is no guarantee of WiFi service being available for your Virgin Islands sailing vacation.
Packing list for the Virgin Islands Sailing Cruise and ASA course
Unsure what you need to bring for a Virgin Islands ASA certification course? This list will make sure you are fully prepared before your adventure begins: 1. The Essentials Many of the things you’ll want to bring to your Virgin Islands ASA certification course are the same things you’d want to bring on any other,…
Planning the Ultimate Virgin Islands Spring Break Vacation
A Virgin Islands Spring Break trip is the perfect way to spend the spring season with family and friends! From where to visit and how to get there to the best events to enjoy, this guide will help you to plan the ultimate spring break vacation in the Virgin Islands. 1. Decide Which Islands to…
A Guide to Internet Access While Sailing
Maritime technology is constantly evolving. Until recently, long ocean crossings with a small sailboat meant accepting that there would be minimal or no internet access onboard. But nowadays, you don’t have to sacrifice staying connected when you set sail. Internet at sea is still more costly and complicated than it is on land, and the…
Sailing Magazine’s Top Choice for Customized Sailing Courses
Go Sail Virgin Islands is proud to have made “Charter News” in the oldest magazine on the sport of sailing in the U.S! Sailing Magazine recently made headlines for having top-notch, customizable sailing courses. In the article, they noted how Go Sail gives students the opportunity to explore the pristine bays and hidden gems of…
Traveling to the Virgin Islands
A video is worth far more than a thousand words when it comes to describing what your arrival in the Virgin Islands will look like! While we have extensive FAQs on Virgin Islands travel, the best way to learn about it is to see it for yourself. Check out our video on “Arriving in the Virgin Islands” and if you still have questions, learn more in the FAQs below!
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The Cyril E. King International Airport (STT) on St. Thomas is the best Virgin Islands airport to use for direct flights to the US Virgin Islands. This Virgin Islands airport is serviced by American, Jetblue, United, Spirit, and Delta. As a reminder, you won’t need your passport to travel to the U.S. Virgin Islands if you are a U.S. citizen.
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The taxis at the St Thomas airport (STT) aren’t really taxis— they are vans! Rather than grabbing a private taxi, you’ll go outside the airport front doors and let one of the taxi drivers know where you are headed. They will find you a van with other travelers going to the same part of the island. Then, you’ll have to wait for the taxi van to fill up. Once it is full, they’ll begin making stops around the island. Be prepared, you could be the first drop off or you could be the last! Most taxi rides around the island cost between $15-$25 per person plus an extra $2 for each bag you bring. Double check the price with the taxi driver before you hop in. Remember to bring cash for your ride!
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Here are our recommendations for places to stay in the Virgin Islands based on the proximity to different VI sailing marinas we operate out of:
Road Town, Tortola, BVI: Maria’s by the Sea, Fort Burt Hotel, or Sebastian’s on the Beach.
Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola, BVI: Nanny Cay Hotel
Compass Point Marina, St Thomas, USVI: Two Sandals by the Sea, Sapphire, Secret Harbor, or the Ritz Carlton.
Crown Bay Marina, St Thomas, USVI: Emerald Bay, Windward Passage, or the Marriott.
Frenchtown Harbour Marina, St Thomas, USVI: – Emerald Bay, Windward Passage, or the Marriott.
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We highly recommend travel insurance. Our cancellation policy applies in every instance and there will be no exceptions for any reason. Go Sail Partners will not issue any refund for not being able to attend, changing number of participants, arriving late, or leaving a trip early, whether voluntary or caused by other circumstances. Go Sail Partners is not responsible for any expenses incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, injury, or illness. Go Sail Partners assumes no financial responsibility for personal injury, emergency evacuation, or personal equipment lost or damaged in any way.
- We recommend travel insurance. Our cancellation policy applies in every instance and there will be no exceptions for any reason. Go Sail Partners will not issue any refund for not being able to attend, changing number of participants, arriving late, or leaving a trip early, whether voluntary or caused by other circumstances. Go Sail Partners is not responsible for any expenses incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, injury, or illness. Go Sail Partners assumes no financial responsibility for personal injury, emergency evacuation, or personal equipment lost or damaged in any way.
- We recommend travel insurance. Our cancellation policy applies in every instance and there will be no exceptions for any reason. Go Sail Partners will not issue any refund for not being able to attend, changing number of participants, arriving late, or leaving a trip early, whether voluntary or caused by other circumstances. Go Sail Partners is not responsible for any expenses incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, injury, or illness. Go Sail Partners assumes no financial responsibility for personal injury, emergency evacuation, or personal equipment lost or damaged in any way.
- We recommend travel insurance. Our cancellation policy applies in every instance and there will be no exceptions for any reason. Go Sail Partners will not issue any refund for not being able to attend, changing number of participants, arriving late, or leaving a trip early, whether voluntary or caused by other circumstances. Go Sail Partners is not responsible for any expenses incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, injury, or illness. Go Sail Partners assumes no financial responsibility for personal injury, emergency evacuation, or personal equipment lost or damaged in any way.
- We recommend travel insurance. Our cancellation policy applies in every instance and there will be no exceptions for any reason. Go Sail Partners will not issue any refund for not being able to attend, changing number of participants, arriving late, or leaving a trip early, whether voluntary or caused by other circumstances. Go Sail Partners is not responsible for any expenses incurred due to travel delays, flight cancellations, injury, or illness. Go Sail Partners assumes no financial responsibility for personal injury, emergency evacuation, or personal equipment lost or damaged in any way.
You are responsible for ensuring that you have travel insurance, which will cover any issue that may arise.
Travel insurance should cover the following:
- Trip cancellation
- Medical coverage
- Emergency medical evacuations
- Baggage loss
- Cancel for any reason policies
This is one of our favorite Travel Insurances to use!
We reserve the right to cancel a course at any time without reason. If we cancel without reason, we shall return all collected payments paid by you.
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Even if you set sail in the British Virgin Islands, the Cyril E. King International Airport (STT) on St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands is still often the easiest airport to use for direct flights to the Virgin Islands. That’s because American, Jetblue, United, Spirit, and Delta all fly into this St Thomas Airport. Alternatively, you can fly into Tortola’s Terrence B. Lettsome Airport (EIS). This airport is serviced by American Airlines, Cape Air, Seaborne airlines, Inter Caribbean airlines, and Tradewind Airlines.
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If you fly into St. Thomas (STT) in the US Virgin Islands, ask a taxi drive to take you to the public ferry in Charlotte Amalie. It’s about a ten minute ride. Once you arrive at the ferry, we recommend taking the 1 hour ferry from the USVI to the BVI with Road Town Fast Ferry. The full Virgin Islands ferry schedule can be found here.
If you booked a learn to sail course with Go Sail Virgin Islands, your captain will meet you at the taxi stand at Nanny Cay Marina when you arrive and bring you to your sailboat! If you booked a bareboat charter with Go Sail, follow the directions in the email we provided to get to your sailboat from the ferry. The Charter company will let you know how to make arrangements for transportation.
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If you’re a US citizen, you do not need a passport to travel to or in the US Virgin Islands. As a US citizen, you will need a passport to travel to or in the British Virgin Islands. Your passport needs to be valid for at least 6 months after your trip. We require your passport number and expiration date when you book your British Virgin Islands sailing vacation with Go Sail.
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We will email you with the time you’ll need to arrive at the marina for the first day of your Virgin Islands sailing trip. However, you’ll be staying on the sailboat at the marina that first night so don’t worry about being late! We do ask you to avoid arriving early to the boat, however, because our captains need time to prepare your sailboat for your trip.
On the last day of your Virgin Islands sailing course or bareboat charter, the boat will need to be returned by 10am. You’ll want to be at the airport two hours before your flight so we recommend booking a late afternoon flight so you have plenty of time to get there.
What is the Best Month to Sail in BVI
Choosing the best month to sail the British Virgin Islands can make a big difference in the success of your voyage. Sailing is possible year-round in the BVI, but some periods of the year have easier weather conditions, while others will be less crowded. This is your guide to picking the best month to visit…
Top Tips for Traveling to the Virgin Islands
What’s the best way to travel to the Virgin Islands? These strategies will make your travel to the Virgin Islands as seamless, cheap, and stress-free as possible. Flying into the US Virgin Islands The USVI has two commercial airports. One in St. Croix and one in St. Thomas. If you are setting sail in the…
Where to Stay in St. Thomas Before or After Your Sailing Vacation
You’ve booked your sailing trip but what about your accommodations before you set sail? Here’s a few options of where you can stay in St. Thomas before or after a sailing trip with Go Sail Virgin Islands: Short-term stays in St. Thomas If you are looking for where to stay in St. Thomas for just…
Packing list for the Virgin Islands Sailing Cruise and ASA course
Unsure what you need to bring for a Virgin Islands ASA certification course? This list will make sure you are fully prepared before your adventure begins: 1. The Essentials Many of the things you’ll want to bring to your Virgin Islands ASA certification course are the same things you’d want to bring on any other,…
Sailing Itineraries
Typical Sailing Day in the Virgin Islands
The best way to explain what a typical sailing day in the Virgin Islands looks like for students taking ASA courses is to see it for yourself! While every sailing day and sailing itinerary is unique, this video details some of the Virgin Islands activities you can expect to enjoy, regardless of which Virgin Islands sailing itinerary you choose.
Choosing between the BVI Sailing Itineraries vs USVI Sailing Itineraries
One of the biggest decisions to make about sailing in the Virgin Islands is which islands to see and what to do on each! The US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands tend to attract different types of sailors. Learn more about sailing in the British Virgin Islands and the US Virgin Islands in this video. It’s sure to help you decide where you would be best suited to take ASA courses!
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Our Typical Sailing Day in the Virgin Islands video will give you a great idea of what to expect on your Virgin Islands sailing itinerary. Additionally, you can learn more about day one, when you arrive in the Virgin Islands in this video. Once at sea, every day includes an hour of discussing the day’s sailing plans at the galley table, sailing and hands-on learning at sea, plus exams and exam reviews. We almost always take the time for a nice long lunch break where you can explore an island, snorkel, swim, and enjoy vacationing in the Virgin Islands. We’ll moor or anchor by 5pm as well, so you have plenty of time to enjoy vacation activities in the Virgin Islands in the evening too!
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The total cost for a sailing vacation in the BVI vs USVI is different for a few reasons. The cost of chartering a sailboat in the BVI is more than the cost for chartering a sailboat in the USVI due to higher demand compared to available inventory. Additionally, the National Park fees and cruising fees are higher in the BVI, both leading to an increased cost for BVI sailing itineraries.
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All of our Virgin Islands sailing itineraries are completely customized to the sailors on board! Sometimes plans change due to weather, other times students may decide there are other activities or places to visit in the Virgin Islands that they would like to incorporate into their sailing trip. Your captain will be happy to work with you to make sure your Virgin Islands sailing itinerary is everything you dreamed of!
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Choosing between a select vs premium sailboat for your Virgin Islands vacation won’t affect your itinerary but it will change which sailboat you spend the week on! Select sailboat options are older sailboats (2012-2020) and won’t always have amenities like air conditioning available. Premium sailboats are 2020 and newer with generators, air conditioning, and water makers always included. Learn more about each type of sailboat available in the Virgin Islands on our yacht page.
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You can take group sailing courses with Go Sail Virgin Islands, where you just book a cabin and will be sailing with other ASA students you may not know, or you can book out an entire vessel and just sail with your chosen family members and friends! You can learn about both of these options on our courses page.
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We offer transparent pricing on all our Virgin Island sailing vacations. Pricing is listed alongside each ASA course on our courses page. For bareboat charter pricing, contact us directly. We offer 10% discounts on bareboat charters to all our ASA alumni as well as all other ASA members. ASA course discounts are also frequently offered on our social media pages and newsletter. Send us a message to sign up for our monthly newsletter with sailing deals, tips, and advice!
Choosing between sailing the BVI vs USVI
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) and U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) are both absolutely gorgeous sailing locations. However, if you are only able to visit one on your upcoming Caribbean trip, these tips will help you to make an informed decision about which territory to go to first: BVI vs USVI Passports and Visas For U.S….
What is the best USVI cruising itinerary?
The best USVI cruising itinerary is the itinerary that best meets your needs and goals. In this post we discuss how to make an informed decision when choosing a USVI cruising itinerary and provide you with a sample itinerary so you know what to expect aboard. What’s the best length for a USVI cruise? If…
The Best Kept Secrets of the Virgin Islands National Park
The Virgin Islands National Park is what sets the island of St. John apart. Covering about 60% of the island, the park protects it from overdevelopment, resulting in pristine beaches and lush hiking trails. These are some of the best-kept secrets within the Virgin Islands National Park: Denis Bay Beach All the beaches of the…
The Best BVI Itinerary for Sailors
In search of the best British Virgin Island to visit during your holiday? There is more than one! We’ve detailed our top spots to visit on a few of our favorite islands so you can create the best BVI itinerary to fit your individual interests and timeframe. Norman Island: life of the party While Go…
ASA Courses in the Virgin Islands
Why Take ASA Courses in the Virgin Islands?
What better way to understand how much fun you’ll have and how much knowledge you’ll gain from taking ASA classes in the Virgin Islands than hearing it directly from other students! In this video, Jake and Nina talk about their ASA courses in the USVI and sailing plans for the future. Read other ASA students’ sailing stories and better understand why other sailors took to the Virgin Island seas with Go Sail in our “Sailing Stories” blog series.
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Every sailor has their own specific reasons for taking ASA courses and becoming an ASA certified sailor. Most commonly, our ASA students say they take ASA courses so they can receive their International Proficiency Certificate (IPC) and bareboat charter anywhere in the world! Additionally, many ASA students just like the idea of actively learning something new while on vacation in the Virgin Islands.
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With Go Sail Virgin Islands, ASA sailing courses are uniquely crafted to meet your needs as a sailor. You’ll spend each day at sea practicing hands-on sailing techniques and gaining the confidence to tack, jibe, moor, anchor, heave-to, and more aboard a sailboat. At the end of each ASA sailing course, you’ll take the ASA exams for your courses but don’t worry— after so much hands-on sailing practice, you’ll have all the knowledge you need to pass your ASA tests!
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We recommend getting a bareboat charter trip or two under your belt before taking on Series 2 (advanced) ASA courses. ASA advanced courses are especially helpful for sailors who have honed in on many of their sailing skills but see specific areas of improvement that they would like to work on with an instructor. They are also great for ASA students looking to gain more sailing knowledge before setting off on a longer sailing trip or passage.
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Once you complete ASA 104 (bareboat cruising), you can apply for your International Proficiency Certificate (IPC) and bareboat charter just about anywhere in the world! We submit your IPC application to ASA for free on your behalf if you take our Series 1 weeklong sailing course in the Virgin Islands.
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Yes! Many of our students have never set foot on a sailboat before taking their Series 1, beginner ASA sailing courses, with Go Sail Virgin Islands. These completely green sailing students find their weeklong liveaboard sailing experience just as rewarding as any other student on board and by the end of the week— it may not even be noticeable who had prior sailing experience and who didn’t!
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We offer the following ASA courses in the Virgin Islands:
ASA 101: Keelboat Sailing
ASA 103: Coastal Cruising
ASA 104: Bareboat Cruising with International Proficiency Certificate (IPC)
ASA 114: Cruising Catamaran
ASA 106: Advanced Coastal Cruising (an advanced sailing course, requiring completion of ASA 104)
ASA 111: Sailing Refresher Course (an advanced sailing course)
Students are invited to take ASA 101, ASA 103 and ASA 104 at the same time through our Series 1 beginner sailing course aboard a weeklong liveaboard sailboat vacation. If you choose to sail on a catamaran in the Virgin Islands, we also offer ASA 114 as part of that package!
If you already have sailing experience, you can take a Series 2 advanced sailing course with Go Sail on a weeklong liveaboard sailboat. This Virgin Islands sailing vacation includes ASA 106 and ASA 111 certifications, as well as an ASA 114 certification, if you don’t already have it!
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Once you book your ASA sailing courses in the Virgin Islands with Go Sail Virgin Islands, we’ll send your ASA textbooks and logbook to the address you provided! There is no need to buy your own ASA textbooks, the cost of your textbooks and shipping them to your home is included in your sailing vacation’s total cost.
What Is A Learn to Sail Vacation?
Caribbean Learn to Sail vacations are American Sailing (ASA) sailing trips you can take with an instructor to become a (ASA) American Sailing certified sailor. Here’s the scoop on Caribbean Learn to Sail vacations: What’s Included with a Caribbean Learn to Sail Vacation ? A Learn to Sail vacation with American Sailing will come with…
What is an International Sailing Certificate?
Setting sail outside of the U.S. and not sure if you need a sailing certificate? Read on to discover everything you need to know about international sailing certificates, when you need them, and how to get one: What is an international sailing certificate? An international sailing certificate is proof that you meet the basic requirements…
Which Sailing Certification is Right for Me?
Taking up sailing? Get ready to have the time of your life. But before you cast off into the Caribbean, you’ll want some nautical miles under your belt. ASA courses are the best way to get your sea legs and learn the basics (and advanced techniques) before chartering a yacht. So, which sailing certification is…
Why You Should Take ASA Advanced Courses
The learning journey isn’t over once you complete Bareboat Certification or even feel confident as a skipper! Every sailor out there can improve in some form or fashion. Here’s why you should take advanced ASA courses and which ones we recommend you sign up for: What are ASA Advanced Courses? ASA advanced courses are the…
Virgin Islands Bareboat Charters
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A bareboat charter is a rented yacht without crew. When you charter a bareboat in the Virgin Islands you are committing to being your own captain and crew! The name “bareboat” refers to the fact that your Virgin Islands sailboat will be “bare” of hired crew and provisions. However, Go Sail Virgin Islands can provide tips for provisioning your sailboat in the British Virgin Islands or US Virgin Islands.
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It doesn’t cost you anything extra to use a yacht charter broker, like Go Sail Virgin Islands, and in fact, working with a broker can make for a more budget friendly sailing vacation. Go Sail Virgin Islands will negotiate bareboat charter pricing for you and offers special sailing discounts for ASA members and previous sailing customers. Additionally, we know the best charter companies in the Virgin Islands and will ensure you are sailing on a reliable yacht for your bareboat vacation.
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The great thing about bareboat chartering in the Virgin Islands is that you are in charge of your own destiny! Go where you want, when you want, for as long as you want! Keep in mind that if you bareboat charter in the British Virgin Islands, you cannot sail to the USVI. Traveling to Puerto Rico is permitted but you may be out of range for the chase boat to reach you if you are in need of assistance. There are also hefty fees to take a USVI bareboat charter to the BVI so we recommend staying in the USVI during your bareboat charter vacation.
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Your Virgin Islands bareboat charter does not come with groceries included. However, we do include the following items aboard to get you started!
In The Galley:
- One sponge
- A small bottle of dish soap
- One small roll of paper towels
- Multiple dishtowels
- One garbage bag
In Each Head
- One roll of toilet paper in each bathroom.
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You have several options in terms of provisioning for a bareboat charter: In-person grocery shopping or provisioning the boat using a grocery store that delivers to the dock on your arrival day. If you would like a provisions delivery in the Virgin Islands, remember to include your last name and the boat’s name on your order. Remember to tip your dock staff when your provisions arrive, as they ensure all your food is put away!
If you run out of ice during your bareboat charter, keep in mind that at Norman Island, Peter Island, and Cooper Island, small boats travel around mooring and anchoring sites selling ice and other assorted goods.
Here are a few grocery stores and provision delivery services you can use in the BVI:
- RiteWay Nanny Cay Nanny Cay Marina VG1110 Tortola, British Virgin Islands; +1 284-340-2263. Open 7 days a week from 7:00 am – 7:00 pm: This is a short walk down the dock near Omar’s restaurant. They are good for last-minute purchases and the basics.
- RiteWay Provisioning Road Town: Pasea Estate, James Walter Francis Highway, VG1110 Road Town, British Virgin Islands; +1 284-347-1188. You can fill out an online provisioning form from this location which will deliver your items to your boat on the day of arrival. They have a great selection of meats, cheeses, and produce.
- Bobby’s Supermarket Road Town: Road Town VG 1110 Tortola, British Virgin Islands; +1-954-314-5198. They will also deliver to the yacht. They carry a lot of gluten-free and organic items.
- One Mart Road Town: Port Purcell, Tortola, British Virgin Islands; +1 284-494-4649. They also have an online provisioning form that can deliver to the yacht.
- Grape Expectations: Road Reef, Road Town, US Virgin Islands; +1 284-346-9463, provisioning@grapeexpectationsbvi.com. This store carries specialty frozen items. They are great for fish, meats , and bread and will deliver.
- First Choice Provisioning: Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands; + 1-284-343-6765, firstchoiceprovioning@gmail.com. Petronella will shop at all major grocery stores to ensure your order is complete.
- Steakation Butchers: Waterfront Dr, Road Town, British Virgin IslandsLocated in Road Town. This boutique grocery store offers fresh meat and fish, marinated meats, produce, specialty meat cuts, and more.
For beer and wine, we suggest these companies:
- TICO: Pasea Estates Near RiteWay; 284-494-2211 X323. You can order online or over the phone.
- Caribbean Cellars: Lower Estate, Road Town, British Virgin Islands; +1 284-393-4470. You can order online or over the phone.
Note: TICO and Caribbean Cellars do not deliver on Sundays. If you need to have it delivered on Sunday, please request a Saturday delivery, and our team will ensure it is secure for your arrival.
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One of the best ways to prepare for your first bareboat charter in the Virgin Islands (other than taking your ASA certification courses) is to watch and read our Boat Briefing Series. These videos and articles will help you feel confident sailing on your own, knowing where items are aboard your sailboat, and how to troubleshoot basic sailboat issues while at sea.
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A Virgin Islands bareboat charter and a captained charter are two totally different types of sailing vacations! In order to bareboat charter, you’ll need to have at least one person on board with sailing experience (preferably ASA certifications) whereas for a captained charter, no one needs sailing experience. Generally, bareboat chartering is a better experience for those who wish to gain sailing experience and feel in charge of their own sailing destiny!
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We offer a variety of different yachts for bareboat chartering in the Virgin Islands. You can choose between catamarans, monohulls, and even trimarans! Find out more about the yachts we offer for bareboat charters on our yachts page.
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To bareboat charter in the Virgin Islands with Go Sail, you’ll need to have your ASA certifications and prior sailing experience (which you can get during a weeklong liveaboard vacation with Go Sail). If you get your ASA certifications with Go Sail, we’ll also offer you a discount on your first bareboat charter with us!
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As well as buying all the groceries and alcohol you will need for the week, there are a few other provisions you’ll likely want onboard your Virgin Islands bareboat charter! Here are a few of our top Virgin Islands provision recommendations:
- Extra kitchen sponges, including one for each of the heads
- A small microfiber towel for the galley
- Several boxes of different-sized resealable plastic bags
- A box of kitchen garbage bags
- Aluminum foil
- Air freshener for each head
- Headlamps or small flashlights for riding in the dinghy at night
- Cooking spices
- Shampoo, conditioner, and body wash
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This article on provision shopping in St. Thomas will ensure you have everything you need before you set sail on your US Virgin Islands bareboat charter! If you have additional questions about provisioning feel free to contact us for more information.
What is Bareboat Sailing?
If you are starting to dabble in the sailing world, you’ve probably heard the word “bareboat” thrown around. So what exactly is bareboat chartering ? What Is Bareboat Sailing? Bareboat sailing is the term used to describe sailing a rented boat without a hired captain or crew. Going bareboating essentially means you are choosing to…
5 Reasons to Use a Yacht Charter Broker for your Sailing Trip
A yacht charter broker is someone with extensive knowledge of the yachting industry and helps match yacht owners with those going on yacht charter vacations. But is it worth booking your sailing charter through a Virgin Islands yacht charter broker? Absolutely! Here’s why: 1. Yacht charter brokers don’t cost you a dime. It won’t cost…
Pros and Cons of Hiring a Captain vs. Chartering Your Own Bareboat in the Virgin Islands
Stuck between the choice of hiring a captain vs. chartering your own bareboat in the Virgin Islands? Let us help you make an informed decision. Read on to find out which option is best for you. What Does It Mean to Charter Your Own Bareboat? To put it simply, bareboating means sailing without a crew….
Bareboating in the British Virgin Islands
Congratulations! You’ve completed your ASA courses and you feel confident bareboat charter for a family and friend vacation! So what’s next? We recommend bareboating in the British Virgin Islands! Here’s what makes bareboating in Tortola and beyond such a fantastic sailing experience and what you need to do to ensure your bareboat trip is a…
4 Reasons to Try Bareboat Sailing in the Virgin Islands
Bareboating sailing provides sailors the opportunity to rent a sailboat without a crew. It’s a truly unique and wonderful experience, made all the better if you plan your trip in the Virgin Islands! Here’s why: 1. Bareboat sailing is the most customizable way to see the Virgin Islands Bareboat sailing gives you the freedom to…
Scuttlebutt SE Recognizes How Go Sail Makes Chartering Easy
Chartering a boat seems like a daunting task but then Go Sail Virgin Islands swoops in and makes it easy! That’s what Scuttlebutt Southeast found when they started looking into what makes sailing with Go Sail Virgin Islands so special. “In order to make the charter process less daunting for future sailors, Go Sail VI…
How to Plan A Yacht Charter Vacation in the Caribbean
Sailing on a private boat in the Caribbean offers ultimate freedom and luxury! Here is what you need to know before booking a yacht charter vacation in the Caribbean: Booking Sailing Trips Directly vs. Through a Broker When you start searching for companies to book a yacht charter vacation through, you’ll be met with two…
Provision shopping in the Virgin Islands for Sailing Vacations
Provision shopping for a weeklong live aboard sailing trip can feel intimidating. However, there are plenty of options to make sure you have everything you need before you set sail! Here’s our guide to shopping in the Virgin Islands for provisions and other items you may want on your sailing vacation. Provision shopping at home…
Virgin Islands Safety and Sailboat Safety Equipment
We Take Sailing Safety Seriously.
Safety is our number one priority for our ASA sailing students, customers, and crew. That’s why we require everyone on board to take a boat briefing before you set sail in the Virgin Islands! During your boat briefing, you’ll learn where sailing safety equipment is located, how to troubleshoot issues you could face aboard your sailboat, and be able to ask as many safety questions as you’d like. Learn more about Go Sail’s mandatory boat briefings and their importance in this video.
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The Virgin Islands are one of the safest places you can set sail! Champagne sailing conditions along with low crime rates make the Virgin Islands an incredibly safe spot to vacation and sail.
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Yes, many people sail in the Virgin Islands during hurricane season. It’s important to be constantly alert of changing weather conditions in the Virgin Islands and always err on the side of caution with incoming storms. Only sail in weather conditions you are certified and knowledgeable to sail in. Never sail in or near the path of a hurricane.
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For those 13 years and older, you do not need to provide your own life jacket. We provide Type II PFD USCG Approved life jackets for everyone on board. We do not have type V (self-inflating type) PFDs onboard any of our sailboats. If you would like to wear this type of life jacket, you’ll need to bring it with you. Read the TSA information here on how to bring this type of life jacket as a carry-on item.
Per the USCG laws, anyone 12 years old and younger is required to wear a life jacket at all times on a moving vessel. We always recommend bringing kidsize life jackets for anyone under 12 years old, as they probably won’t fit into our provided life jackets.
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Sailing is a generally safe hobby. The risks of renting a car on your vacation are going to be a lot higher than the risks of being out at sea with a knowledgeable and experienced Go Sail ASA instructor. We also will not allow you to go out on a Virgin Islands sailboat vacation if the weather conditions are too dangerous to sail. Safety is our number one priority for all our customers.
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You will find all federally required sailing safety equipment and ASA recommended safety gear aboard your sailboat and we highly recommend becoming familiar with where each item is located during your boat briefing. Here are the items you’ll want to locate onboard before setting sail in the Virgin Islands:
Federally required sailboat safety equipment:
- Type II PFDs (life jackets) for everyone on board
- Three B I type fire extinguishers
- Smoke distress flares (for day or night use)
- Distress flares for night use
- A distress flag
- A whistle
- Navigation lights, side lights, stern lights, and a masthead light
- Placards for discharge of oil, MARPOL discharge of garbage, and waste management
- USCG Navigation Rules
- The hull numbers, certificate, and documentation numbers for your sailboat
ASA recommended safety gear:
- A knife
- Flashlights
- Extra lines
- Fenders
- A compass
- Binoculars
- Sunscreen
- Water
- Gloves
- Tools – Screw driver, pliers, wrench, razor blade, and a hammer.
Is it Safe to Sail in the US Virgin Islands?
The U.S. Virgin Islands is generally regarded as a safe place to sail. However, before setting off on your USVI adventure, there are a few things you should know regarding safety in the Virgin Islands. Safety While Sailing the U.S. Virgin Islands The safety risk while sailing in the U.S. Virgin Islands is very low….
Sailing FAQs: Safety in the Virgin Islands
When planning a vacation to a new place, it is always necessary to consider your safety. Virgin Islanders are known for their hospitality and kindness, and they are often eager to help. However, safety issues are possible anywhere, so visitors must be vigilant and take certain precautions during trips. Here is our guide to Virgin…
How do you have the safest US Virgin Island vacation?
While the United States, Canada, and other countries don’t have any travel advisories for the Virgin Islands, there are still steps you can take to ensure you have the safest US Virgin Island experience possible. Here are a few safety recommendations to keep in mind when visiting the US Virgin Islands. Don’t flash your cash…
Virgin Islands Weather
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The Virgin Islands is known for having champagne sailing conditions, which means the best of the best! The Virgin Islands winds are a reliable 15-20 knots out of the east and temperatures are fairly consistent throughout the year. Water temps are usually around 82°F (27°C)! For more specific information about where to find sailing weather information for your trip on sailing weather apps and sailing weather websites, check out our articles on Virgin Islands sailing weather below the weather FAQ dropdowns
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If we need to cancel your booking with Go Sail Virgin Islands due to a Force Majeure event (this includes natural disasters), we’ll let you know as soon as possible and credit your trip towards a future trip. Your safety and sailing safety is our biggest priority so we’ll work with you to come up with a new plan for your trip depending on your availability and preferences. The alternative date must be accepted within three months from the original date of your Virgin Islands sailing vacation.
Keep in mind, if there are additional costs incurred by the client as a result of changes to a trip, Go Sail is not liable for those costs. This is one reason we highly recommend travel insurance to all our customers!
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We’ve never cancelled any Virgin Islands ASA courses or bareboat charters due to hurricanes but — weather happens! This is one of the many reasons why it is a good idea to get traveler’s insurance for your trip
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Force Majeure is a legal term that outlines the events beyond our control that may affect your Virgin Islands sailing trip. In our Terms and Conditions, you can find more information about Force Majeure but here are a few of the events that are covered under Force Majeure:
-Governmental decision
-Law (obligation of maritime assistance)-Weather events (fire, flood, drought, monsoon, natural disaster, cyclone, particularly tropical cyclone, named meteorological phenomenon, etc.)
-War, explosions, acts of terrorism, uprisings, sabotage, insurrection, coup d’état, civil unrest, etc.
-Threat to personal safety (such as hostage taking, kidnapping, assassination, bombing, suicide attack, boarding, acts of piracy)
-Epidemic, quarantine, or confinement
-Disruptions to sources of supply (particularly of energy, raw materials, etc.) or transport,
-Blockage of transport routes (canal, port access, port congestion), strike, lock-out, or any other event beyond its control.
Guide To Sailing Weather Apps
Before heading out to sail, you always want to be well apprised of the weather conditions! Unfortunately, many traditional weather apps just don’t cut it in the sailing world. Let’s take a look at which sailing weather apps to use and why before hitting the water: Traditional Weather Apps There are a few reasons you…
Top 5 Tools for Checking Sailing Weather
Checking the weather is an absolute must before heading out on the water. However, what are the best tools for checking sailing weather before setting off on your adventure? Check out the 5 favorite tools of Go Sail Virgin Islands: 1. NOAA NowCOAST The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) is one of the best…
Do I Need Travel Insurance for a Virgin Islands Sailing Trip?
Is travel insurance a great investment or a waste of money? Here’s our take on whether or not to buy travel insurance for your Virgin Islands sailing trip. Is Travel Insurance Required in the Virgin Islands? No, it is not required to buy travel insurance in order to visit the Virgin Islands. This might come…
Why are the Virgin Islands known for the best sailing conditions?
The world is full of sailing itineraries and trips! So how do you choose the perfect sailing location for your trip? The Virgin Islands has some of the best sailing conditions you’ll find anywhere and should absolutely be a top contender for your next sailing adventure. Here’s what makes sailing here so impressive: 1. Temperatures…
Sailing Policies and Forms
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The terms and conditions for your Virgin Islands sailing vacation with Go Sail Virgin Islands can be found here. We will also email you a form to sign with these terms and conditions outlined before your Virgin Islands sailing trip.
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Yes, your Virgin Islands sailing trip qualifies for your captain’s license sea time. Your captain would be happy to sign a CG -719 “Small Vessel Sea Service Form” for your time at sea! You will receive this form alongside your exams, just present it to your captain at the end of your sailing trip for them to sign. For bareboat charter vacations, contact us for more information about getting your CG-719 signed after your trip.
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You may cancel your course at any time subject to the following penalties:
- 60+ days prior to your trip: You will still be committed to 10% of the payment collected plus the cost of textbooks, logbook, and shipping for all items.
- Between 60 and 30 days before your trip: 50% of the total course fee collected plus the cost of textbooks, logbook, and shipping for all items.
- Less than 30 days before your trip: No refunds or rescheduling, this includes if you are sick or injured pre-departure.
Cancellations must be made in writing, by post or email. The penalties will be calculated from the date we receive your cancellation.