US Virgin Islands
American convenience meets untouched Caribbean wilderness.
The U.S. Virgin Islands offer a rare geopolitical magic trick: a tropical charter destination where you can pay in dollars and skip the customs line. But, convenience does not come at the cost of character. This is a study in contrasts—from the kinetic energy of St. Thomas to the emerald silence of St. John, where two-thirds of the island is protected national parkland. It is the perfect charter ground for those who want the exoticism of the West Indies without leaving the domestic sphere.
The Best of the US Virgin Islands
Lime Out
Coral Bay, St. John
A floating taco bar that has become an instant icon. Accessible only by boat, this lime-green structure serves gourmet tacos and craft cocktails to guests floating on lily pad rafts. It is the ultimate “lunch on the water” experience—playful, delicious, and entirely unique to the territory.
Pizza Pi
Christmas Cove, Great St. James
The Caribbean’s original food boat, anchored in a protected cove known for its turtle population. This aluminum sailing vessel churns out New York-style pizzas that are delivered via dinghy. It is the quintessential charter stop for a casual, sunset dinner on the aft deck.
ZoZo’s at Caneel Bay
Caneel Bay, St. John
Situated on the grounds of the historic (and currently shuttered) Caneel Bay Resort, ZoZo’s offers the finest dining view in the Virgin Islands. The Italian-Caribbean menu is superb, but you are really here for the sunset, which turns the sky into a bruise of purple and gold over the darkened silhouette of St. Thomas.
Magens Bay
North Shore, St. Thomas
A heart-shaped, one-mile stretch of beach protected by two peninsulas that keep the water as calm as a swimming pool. While it attracts visitors, a private yacht allows you to anchor on the quiet far ends, avoiding the crowds while enjoying one of the world’s most photogenic shorelines.
Lovango Resort + Beach Club
Lovango Cay (Between St. Thomas & St. John)
A chic newcomer bringing a touch of St. Barts flair to US waters. This private island retreat features an infinity pool that seems to spill directly into the ocean and a restaurant serving elevated coastal cuisine. It is the premier spot to dock for a sophisticated, “rosé-all-day” afternoon.
Buck Island Reef National Monument
Off the coast of St. Croix
An uninhabited 176-acre island surrounded by a massive barrier reef. It features one of the few underwater “trails” in the world, with plaques guiding snorkelers through the coral gardens. The beach is a blinding white strip of perfection, often entirely empty in the late afternoon.
Destination Brief
Best Time to Charter
December to May (Peak); June and November (Shoulder).
Languages spoken
English
Cruising Style
Short, protected island hops with an abundance of sheltered bays and moorings.
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Getting There
Fly directly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas.
Amazing Itineraries
Discover each itinerary by clicking on the maps above.
Day 1: Gateway to the Islands
Transition from the bustling historic docks of St. Thomas to the charming harbor of Cruz Bay, the sole port of entry for St. John.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Hike the Lind Point Trail
Enjoy a scenic walk from Cruz Bay to the pristine sands of Salomon Beach, staying within the Virgin Islands National Park.
KEY FEATURES
Cruz Bay Charm
Explore the unique boutiques and restaurants that line the streets of this vibrant harbor town.
Day 2: The Blue Water Crossing
Embark on a 35-mile "beam reach" transit—the fastest and most comfortable point of sail—across the deep Puerto Rican Trench to St. Croix.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Christiansted Boardwalk Stroll
Walk the heart of historic Christiansted and admire the majestic 18th-century Danish colonial architecture.
KEY FEATURES
The Puerto Rican Trench
Experience true open-ocean sailing where the water reaches depths of thousands of feet and dolphins are frequently sighted.
Day 3: Caribbean Marine Garden
Visit Buck Island Reef National Monument, a 176-acre treasure described as "the finest marine garden in the Caribbean."
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
The Underwater Snorkel Trail
Follow the submerged trail markers with plaques guiding you through the barrier reef system and giant elkhorn coral.
KEY FEATURES
Turtle Beach
Relax on a world-class white sand beach that serves as a protected nesting site for green and hawksbill sea turtles.
Day 4: Sunken Treasures & Sovereignty
Sail to the west end of St. Croix, a region defined by its premier dive sites and its pivotal role in island emancipation.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Butler Bay Wreck Diving
Explore five distinct shipwrecks in one bay, including the Suffolk Maid and the Virgin Islander, now teeming with soft corals.
KEY FEATURES
Fort Frederik
Visit the “Freedom Fort,” a stunning red fortress where emancipation was declared in 1848.
Day 5: The East End Return
Return to the rugged, local atmosphere of St. John's eastern end, away from the crowds.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Lunch at Lime Out
Swim out to the Caribbean’s famous floating taco bar, offering fresh tacos and cocktails in the middle of the bay.
KEY FEATURES
Annaberg Sugar Plantation
Hike through the historic ruins to explore preserved sugar mills and massive stone walls of 18th-century estates.
Day 6: Coves and Currents
Anchor in the sheltered oasis of Christmas Cove, a sanctuary for marine life just off the coast of Great St. James.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Snorkeling Christmas Cove
Nestled in protected waters, this cove is one of the best spots in the region for spotting turtles and rays.
KEY FEATURES
Pizza Pi
Order a gourmet pizza from ‘Pizza Pi,’ a custom-fitted sailboat operating as a floating pizzeria.
Day 7: The Heart of the Sea
Conclude the journey with a visit to the most iconic beach in the territory before returning to base.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Unwind at Magens Bay
Spend the morning at this heart-shaped bay, world-famous for its incredible turquoise waters and mile-long white sand beach.
KEY FEATURES
Frenchtown Farewell
Return to port at Frenchtown, St. Thomas, a historic fishing village known for its culinary treats and charm.
Day 1: Gateway to the Park
Depart the luxury marinas of St. Thomas for the sandy crescent of Caneel Bay, the elegant entrance to St. John's National Park.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Snorkel Salomon Bay
Take a short dinghy ride to Salomon Bay to explore the shallow reefs teeming with vibrant parrotfish and brain corals in crystal-clear water.
KEY FEATURES
Dining at ZoZo's
Experience high-end Italian-Caribbean fusion at this destination restaurant, famous for its sunset dining experience.
Day 2: Historic Ruins & Calm Waters
Sail North to Francis Bay, a peaceful anchorage known for its exceptionally calm, shallow waters and soft sandy bottom.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Hike to Peace Hill
An easy walk leads to the ruins of an 18th-century sugar mill and windmill, offering panoramic vistas of the surrounding cays.
KEY FEATURES
Sea Turtle Sanctuary
Francis Bay is a premier location for spotting Green and Hawksbill sea turtles grazing peacefully in the underwater seagrass beds.
Day 3: The Snorkeling Pinnacle
Journey to Leinster Bay, consistently ranked as the #1 snorkeling destination in St. John due to its proximity to Waterlemon Cay.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Waterlemon Cay Exploration
Snorkel the deep fringe reefs surrounding the cay to see eagle rays, nurse sharks, and massive schools of blue tang.
KEY FEATURES
Annaberg Plantation Ruins
Explore the extensive remains of what was once the island’s largest sugar producing estate, featuring a windmill and historic stone walls.
Day 4: East End Solitude
Sail toward the rugged East End of St. John to Hansen Bay, a laid-back sanctuary far removed from the busier North Shore crowds.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Lime Out Floating Tacos
Visit the world-famous “Lime Out,” a floating taco bar accessible only by boat, serving craft cocktails and fresh Caribbean tacos.
KEY FEATURES
Quiet Coastal Charm
Enjoy the hospitality of the local shoreline and sandy circles that make for a relaxing beach-and-snorkel service day.
Day 5: The Southern Tip
Navigate to the southern tip of the island to Salt Pond Bay, a stunning crescent-shaped beach offering access to dramatic cliffside views.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Hike the Ram Head Trail
A 2.5-mile trail across a windswept peninsula leads to 200-foot rosy cliffs with sweeping, unobstructed views of the Caribbean Sea.
KEY FEATURES
Drunk Bay
Near the bay, walk to the rocky Drunk Bay, where visitors create whimsical sculptures out of coral and stone washed ashore by the rough Atlantic waves.
Day 6: The Remote Anchorage
Retreat to the ultimate hidden gem, Little Lameshur Bay, a remote site on the South Shore where the rough road access keeps crowds at bay.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Yawzi Point Snorkeling
Explore the reefs extending from the point to discover eagle rays, brain coral, and delicate sea fans in deep, clear water.
KEY FEATURES
3,000 Years of History
Take the nearby Reef Bay Trail to find ancient Taino petroglyphs and waterfalls hidden deep within the tropical forest.
Day 7: The Final Sail
Enjoy a final downwind sail back to St. Thomas, taking in the views of the 50+ cays and islets that comprise the USVI.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Charlotte Amalie Harbor
Cruise through one of the Caribbean’s most historic harbors, checking colonial forts and the red-roofed architecture of the capital.
KEY FEATURES
Luxury Provisioning
Conclude the trip at Yacht Haven Grande, the center for high-end shopping and world-class yacht services.
Day 1: Coastal Beginnings
Set sail from the award-winning Yacht Haven Grande toward the tranquil waters of Great St. James and Christmas Cove.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Pizza Pi
Visit the famous “Pizza Pi,” a sailboat turned floating pizzeria located in Christmas Cove. It’s the perfect welcome lunch delivered directly to your yacht.
KEY FEATURES
Marine Sanctuary
Anchor at Great St. James for your first snorkel, exploring the protected coves and vibrant marine life in this calm, sheltered sanctuary.
Day 2: North Shore Splendor
Enter the Virgin Islands National Park to explore the most iconic, white-sand beaches in the world.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Trunk Bay Underwater Trail
Snorkel the world-famous underwater marked trail at Trunk Bay, guiding you through coral formations and information plaques about the reef.
KEY FEATURES
Protected Beaches
Enjoy the pristine beauty of the National Park beaches, including Cinnamon Bay and Hawksnest, known for their lush green hills and crystal-clear water.
Day 3: Turtle Bay Tranquility
Drop anchor in the calm, shallow waters of Maho Bay, a sanctuary for marine life and beach lovers.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Swim with Sea Turtles
Snorkel in the seagrass beds of Maho Bay, where green sea turtles are found in abundance, offering one of the best swimming experiences in the Caribbean.
KEY FEATURES
Maho Crossroads
Visit the “Maho Crossroads” pop-up village for a refreshing tiki drink, local crafts, and a relaxed beach vibe right on the sand.
Day 4: East End Flavors
Journey to the rugged East End of St. John for a more local, laid-back Caribbean experience.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Lime Out Taco Boat
Swim up to “Lime Out,” the legendary floating taco bar. Sit on floating lily pads while enjoying gourmet tacos and craft cocktails in the turquoise water.
KEY FEATURES
Hurricane Hole
Explore the mangroves of Hurricane Hole, a protected monument where corals grow directly on the mangrove roots in crystal-clear shallow water.
Day 5: Reefs & Rays
Sail back toward St. Thomas to explore the Capella Islands or Buck Island, a haven for divers and snorkelers.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Wreck of the Cartanser Sr.
Snorkel or dive this visible shipwreck lying in shallow water, an old freighter that is now teeming with fish and marine life.
KEY FEATURES
Turtle Cove
Anchor at Buck Island’s Turtle Cove, a protected marine refuge where you are almost guaranteed to swim alongside friendly turtles and rays.
Day 6: Honeymoon Hideaway
Sail to Water Island, the "Fourth" US Virgin Island, for a day of ultimate relaxation at Honeymoon Beach.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Golf Cart Exploration
Rent a golf cart to explore the quiet roads of Water Island, visiting the old Fort Segarra and limestone cliffs for panoramic views.
KEY FEATURES
Dinghy's Beach Bar
Park your cart at Honeymoon Beach and enjoy the amenities at Dinghy’s Beach Bar, featuring live music, fire dancers, and a floating bar.
Day 7: Historic Harbor Return
Complete the loop by returning to Charlotte Amalie for a final afternoon of world-class shopping and history.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Duty-Free Luxury Shopping
Explore the cobblestone alleys of downtown Charlotte Amalie, home to international luxury brands, boutique perfumes, and fine jewelry.
KEY FEATURES
99 Steps
Climb the historic “99 Steps” built from Danish ship ballast bricks for a stunning panoramic view of the harbor and your yacht before departure.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a passport to charter in the US Virgin Islands?
A: If you are a U.S. citizen, no passport is required to visit the USVI. However, carrying a government-issued ID (like a driver’s license) and a birth certificate is recommended. If you plan to sail over to the British Virgin Islands during your trip, a valid passport is absolutely mandatory.
Q: Is St. Croix included in a typical itinerary?
A: St. Croix sits about 40 miles south of St. Thomas and St. John, separated by a deep ocean trench. Because of the longer open-water sail (approx. 4-6 hours), it is often excluded from standard 7-day leisurely charters unless specifically requested by guests who enjoy blue-water sailing.
Q: Can we combine the USVI and BVI in one charter?
A: Absolutely. This is one of the most popular itineraries, known as the “Virgin Islands Loop.” You can start in St. Thomas, clear customs into the BVI for a few days of island hopping, and then clear back into the USVI. Your captain will handle the logistics and paperwork for a seamless experience.
Q: Are there restrictions on sunscreen?
A: Yes. To protect the coral reefs, the USVI has strictly banned the sale and possession of sunscreens containing the “Toxic 3 Os” (oxybenzone, octinoxate, and octocrylene). Be sure to pack only mineral-based (zinc or titanium) sunscreens. Most yachts will have approved, reef-safe options available onboard.
