The US Virgin Islands are one of the easiest places in the Caribbean to start a yacht charter. St Thomas has direct flights from many US cities, St John is mostly protected national park, and the British Virgin Islands are visible across the water. For a week of calm anchorages, reef snorkelling and short, easy passages, the USVI is hard to beat.

When to Go

The main charter season runs from December to April, outside the Atlantic hurricane season. Christmas and New Year book up first and usually come with minimum stays, while February and March bring steady trade winds, settled weather and more choice of yachts. Our Caribbean season guide covers timing in more detail.

St Thomas

Most charters start in St Thomas. Charlotte Amalie is the capital, with a large natural harbour and a busy waterfront, while Red Hook on the east end is the hub for St John and the BVI. Before heading off, many guests spend their first afternoon at Christmas Cove off Great St James, a sheltered anchorage with good snorkelling just a short run from the marinas.

St John: The National Park Island

More than half of St John is protected as the Virgin Islands National Park, so the coastline is green, quiet and largely undeveloped. Moorings in the park protect the seagrass and reefs, and your crew will take care of them for you.

Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay

Trunk Bay is one of the most photographed beaches in the Caribbean, with a marked underwater snorkelling trail. Cinnamon Bay next door is longer and quieter.

Maho Bay and Francis Bay

Calm, shallow bays on the north shore where turtles graze on the seagrass. Ideal for families and first-time snorkellers.

Waterlemon Cay

A small cay in Leinster Bay with some of the best snorkelling on the island, from reef fish to rays.

Cruz Bay and Coral Bay

Cruz Bay is St John’s lively little town, with bars and restaurants close to the water. Coral Bay on the east end is quieter and more laid-back.

St Croix and Buck Island

St Croix lies around 40 miles south of St Thomas and is usually a separate trip rather than part of a standard week. It is worth it for keen snorkellers: Buck Island Reef National Monument has its own underwater trail through the reef, and Christiansted is a handsome harbour town with Danish colonial buildings.

Combining the USVI with the BVI

Many of the best weeks use both. You might start in St Thomas, spend two days around St John, then cross to Jost Van Dyke, Norman Island and Virgin Gorda before returning. The passages are short and sheltered, so you spend most of your time at anchor. See our sample one-week BVI itinerary for ideas on the British side.

Which Yacht Suits the Virgin Islands?

Crewed catamarans are the most popular choice, with space, shade and shallow draft for the bays. Motor yachts suit groups who want more luxury and the ability to add St Croix or the outer BVI, and sailing yachts enjoy reliable trade-wind sailing. Many catamarans are quoted all-inclusive, while larger yachts are usually plus expenses with an APA. Our guide to yacht charter costs, APA and tips explains the difference.

How to Book

Tell us your dates, group size and the kind of week you have in mind. We check availability across the fleet and come back with a shortlist of suitable yachts, with photos, crew details and rates, plus a suggested route. For the festive weeks, the earlier you ask, the more choice you will have.