Yacht Charter Facts

What is a Yacht Charter Broker
Who would like a yacht charter vacation
What additional expenses might I incur on a yacht charter vacation
Why a crewed charter
Is it safe in the Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands Airlines and Airports
How do we get to our charter
How reliable are the ferries between the US and British Virgin Islands
Do we need passports to enter the Virgin Islands
Does our charter have to be only 7 nights and 8 days
What do we do all day - We have an active family.
Special or Themed Charters
Special Diets
What if we prefer to enjoy dining on land at night
What should we  bring (i.e. clothing type, gear, shoes, cameras)
What is the cost of a crewed charter
What are the Payment Procedures
What kind of documents do we need
Do we need Trip Insurance
Cell phones in the Virgin Islands

Q:  What is a Charter Broker?

A: Put simply, the broker is your lifeline to the yachts. We take care of all of the details between the yacht, the yacht's agent and you.  Professional brokers do their homework...we maintain contact with the yachts and crews by attending the Charter yacht shows in the areas that we book.  -We maintain contact with the yachts and professional organizations and local and Federal Government to keep informed about changes/upgrades/crew and boat modifications. -We support local organizations engaged in keeping the reefs healthy. We engage in open dialogue with local publications to help keep the government and the public aware of this important industry in our islands. -Local brokers have the opportunity of hearing "rumors" or scuttlebutt, and we check it out. -We take an active interest in the cruising area in which we specialize i.e. the Virgin Islands -We develop a rapport with preferred vendors of services such as local taxi drivers, Ferry companies, good places to stay on land and much more. -We are members of professional organizations such as VICL, CYBA. Slip Aweigh is an associate member of CYBA, the body who oversees the Charter Yacht Broker Members and establishes guidelines to which Slip Aweigh strictly adheres. These organizations are dedicated to maintaining integrity and professionalism in our field.   It's more than a job, it's a labor of love!

 

Q: Who would like a yacht charter vacation

A: We’ve had honeymooners, wedding groups, corporate incentive groups, families, divers, family reunions – and all walks of life, young and old. Family vacations are transformed into a magical experience for all ages when on a boat charter. Sailing, snorkeling, kayaking, beachcombing, anything goes! You might want to plan your visit during a special island event such as Full Moon Parties, Festivals, Regattas, 8 Tuff Miles, Friends of the VINP Beach-to-Beach Swim, or a special Holiday. Q: What additional expenses might I incur on a yacht charter vacation A: Most motor yachts might not include certain additional expenses such as fuel etc. Here in the Virgin Islands, your crewed yacht charter will include all food and beverages with almost no exceptions. Even so, most charter clients prefer to have a meal or two on land and most yachts accommodate this wish. After all, it is nice to sample island foods as the islanders prepare them. See our Half Board Dining option

Q: Why a crewed charter

A:  Crewed charter visitors often have the skills and ability to “bareboat”. That is, charter a boat and be fully responsible for it all that goes with this kind of vacation due to possessing a boating history. This responsibility would include but not be limited to things such as provisioning, doing the cooking (or paying to dine out), anchoring or mooring properly every night by sundown, paying the check-in fees for the BVI (many Crewed Charter yachts absorb this expense as part of the charter), be responsible for navigating unfamiliar waters and being prepared to accept the possibility of having to “fix something”.  Often, too, there are certain areas you might not be permitted to visit. A charter yacht with professional crew tends to all of the above and can take you anywhere the captain thinks is appropriate for the vessel and for the time of year.  And don’t forget, there is a whole lot of information not found in the cruising guides which you might miss by not having a “local guide”. All crews love these waters and will share their many secrets with you! If you do some homework as I have, when you total up all the bareboating costs and time lost out of your precious week of charter, you’ll find the pricing is about equal - with no muss, no fuss!  Back To Top

Q: Is it safe in the Virgin Islands

A: The US Virgin Islands enjoys the protection of the Department of Homeland Security just like the mainland. And the BVI, overseen by the British Government, is one of the most secure destinations in the World. As to Pirates, though’ this area’s history is rich with their stories for the 30 years or so they flourished here,now you might only find them behind a sales counter (smile). Back To Top Q: Virgin Islands Airlines and Airports A: Many major airlines such as American Airlines, American Eagle, Continental, Delta, Spirit Air and US Air have flights to St. Thomas (STT) and many fly direct from large US metro areas. If you prefer to fly directly to Tortola, you will connect in Puerto Rico for the short 20 flight to Tortola’s Beef Island Airport (EIS) which is not open to long-range jets. Puerto Rico (SJU) has numerous major carriers providing service. Back To Top

Q: How do we get to our charter

A: It is best that we discuss this during the planning stages for your charter. However, below, you will find thumbnail sketches of some options:  Arriving to the Virgin Islands is one of the most easily accessed destinations in the World. Completing the About You Form ensures that we have this information. US Virgin Islands US citizens, arriving to Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, USVI are simply arriving to another spot of US soil. The airport is located towards the west end of the 13 mile long island.. From the airport, you can easily taxi to the marina where your charter yacht waits to welcome you aboard. There is Customs or Immigration on your way in, thereby wasting valuable vacation time. Once you leave US waters soon into your charter week, your captain will take care of all the British Virgin Islands check-in details without you having to be present.  Normally, if you do not choose to “decompress” at a hotel on your way in, you can meet your yacht on the same day you arrive. All recommendations can best be discussed with Slip Aweigh Yacht Charters to assure a smooth transition to your tropical dream vacation. For non-US visitors, please refer to the current regulations at the US Entry Requirements site. This should be done frequently before your charter as changes can occur at any time. British Virgin Islands If you choose a charter originating in the British Virgin Islands, you might want to fly into Tortola (the airport is actually located on Beef Island). BVI Customs and Immigration is located at the airport. Then take a taxi to the yacht at one of several possible starting points on Tortola. NOTE: You also have the option of using a ferry from Downtown Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas to arrive in Tortola, your schedule permitting. Slip Aweigh Yacht Charters can help you to coordinate this. Back to Top Q: How reliable are the ferries between the US and British Virgin Islands A: Very reliable, unless something breaks on that day, you are normally assured that the ferry schedules (link to ferry schedule) are very good generally. Q: Do we need passports to enter the Virgin Islands A: FOR THE REMAINDER OF 2007, NO PASSPORTS ARE NEEDED TO ENTER THE BVI AND THEN RETURN TO THE USVI BY PRIVATE CHARTER.  For 2007, the only thing you need for all aboard, regardless of age, is a Birth Certificate with a raised (embossed) seal and a photo ID, such as Voter’s Card, Veteran's card, driver's license or similar. After January, 2008, changes are slated to begin where you will be needing official Passports. We advise you to consider beginning the process for a passport if you don’t presently have one, because soon you will need Passports for travel anywhere. We recommend you stay informed of updated passport information for latest rules and regulations. Note: When checking into the BVI, the Captain of your charter yacht performs the check in for your whole party at the entry point of your choosing. However, when re-entering the USVI,  all passengers must accompany the Captain to the re-entry site.  Re-entry to the US Virgin Islands is easy. You and your crew choose where you want to check in ~maybe Cruz Bay, St. John for some excellent shopping after or in Downtown Charlotte Amalie on your way to the airport. It, too, is advised if arriving from a foreign country (other than the U.S.) that you check into the most current requirements for tourist Visas. Two good web sites are the  BVI Tourism Site and the US State Department Site.  Back to Top

Q: Does my charter have to be only 7 nights and 8 days

A: No—Slip Aweigh can arrange a longer term for you. The costs would be prorated against the daily cost of the yacht in most cases. Just ask! Back To Top

Q: What do we do all day- we have an active family

A: Hike as high or as low as you wish on an island where you might see no other people.  Look out over the whole of both great seas. Swim, snorkel, scuba dive. Kayak, windsurf, water ski. Crawl up, over and under house-sized boulders at The Baths on Virgin Gorda; swim into the caves on Robert Lewis Stevens’ Treasure Island—(ok, really the BVI’s Norman Island). See all the tropical fish up close, in your face. Sail out to Anegada, the Drowned Island, comb the miles of virtually empty white sand beaches, look for the flamingos...then gorge on the freshest lobster known under a brilliant canopy of stars. Or, sit on a beach and read a book all day.  The choice is yours. Join the party at some of the most famous places to celebrate the Full Moon--- Bomba Shack or at Aragorn’s place in Trellis Bay, Tortola. Kids and adults love the long, calm beach at  Cane Garden Bay on Tortola, and  Ivan’s on White Bay is a favorite spot of other Virgin Islanders, (Kenny Chesney wrote a song about it!) Also, Foxy’s on Great Harbour is always a lot of fun for all ages, especially when he’s playing his guitar . Plan your trip to coincide with one of the numerous Carnivals or Festivals. There, you can march in the Parade, join the Tramp, or dance the night away to a Calypso band. Back To Top

Q: Do you offer Special or Themed Charters?

A: Yes, there are cruises to meet almost every need. Some of these include: Scuba Diving Charters Many programs are available for diving from beginner up to Advanced Diver. The variety of diving and the beauty is unmatched in the Caribbean and includes reef, night, cave and wreck dives. Learn To Sail Most sailing charter captains and crews are happy to share their knowledge of sailing, and there will be opportunities to steer the boat and adjust the sails if you want. There are, however, captains that are qualified sailing instructors offering both ASA and US Sailing Courses. If you are interested in learning more about how to sail, Slip Aweigh, will coordinate the boat and course that best suits your needs.    Honeymoon and Wedding Charters There are many weddings aboard yachts, even some on the white sand beach where the Bride and Groom were delivered by the yacht tender (dinghy)! More commonly though is the honeymoon cruise. Our private yacht charters provide one of the most romantic honeymoons to begin your new life together - without any worries after all you've gone through with the preparation. What luxury! Clothing Optional Charters and Nude Charters More than 50% of the charter yachts offer nude charters or clothing optional charters. Just inquire, the rates would not change if you decided on this option... After all, it’s a “natural”.  Some yacht crews do not mind their guests 'expressing themselves', and the seclusion possibility on your own yacht ensures you privacy. Although clothing optional is not acceptable on the public beaches or on land, when you’re on the water, it’s just “you and the breeze” out on the water! Gay and Lesbian Charters Many yachts offer this option at standard Charter rates. Please include this in your special notes on our Questionnaire or give us a call for more information. Captain Only Crew A few charter yachts are available with the captain only. The yacht is available with the captain at a lower rate than fully crewed and the charter guest pays all the expenses. Expenses would include provisions (including enough for the Captain), fuel, water, taxes, etc. Also, you prepare the meals and look after your cabins. This might be a good choice for those that want to eat ashore frequently and don't need the personal service that a fully crewed charter includes. Back to Top

Q: We have a friend on a special diet

A: Most of our yachts will do everything to accommodate your special dietary requirements. Many can do vegetarian menus that will delight everyone, not just the vegetarians. Kosher is available on some boats, though often in 'modified' form due to the constraints of a yacht's galley. The most important thing is to CALL US as soon as you know you have special needs so we can plan accordingly and complete the About You Form. With enough advance communication, most diets are possible, even here in the islands!    Q: What if we prefer to enjoy dining on land at night A: Dining “off the boat” is just about always at the guests’ expense, and when you make this choice, your Captain and crew can recommend many dining options on each of the inhabited islands. Don’t forget, they are your guides to your Best Vacation Ever. If this concept appeals to you, see our Half Board Dining Charters. Back to Top

Q. What to bring (i.e. clothing type, gear, shoes, cameras)

Peeling Tourist (aka Turpentine) Tree A: First, only bring soft-sided luggage since space is limited and storage is easier. Hard luggage can damage woodwork and paint. For those wearing clothing (joke!), bring casual wear, mostly shorts, T-shirts, and swimsuits. A few of the more formal restaurants, mostly limited to the high-end restaurants of the BVI, require long pants and collared shirts and occasionally a jacket, but "smart casual" is the norm. A large brimmed hat is very useful to keep off the sun. The tropical sun can be very damaging to your skin, so bring a protective lotion that does not stain towels, sheets, cockpit cushions and decks. Greasy preparations and oils in general are forbidden on board. Most charter yachts will provide sunscreen on board. And don’t forget the big shirt cover-up. Just great for reducing the red-look of the Peeling Tourist or Tourist Nose Tree! Shoes of choice are the type of sandals with heel straps. These will take you from the dinghy, to the rocks, to the sandy beach, to the shops and anywhere else. Flip-flops or tie shoes can be bothersome for daily routine. However, if you plan on doing any serious hiking, you might opt for more substantial footwear but we love the strapped sandals for just about anything. Your own mask and snorkel if you’re inclined, but all yachts carry an assortment of sizes. If you are expecting to scuba dive, check with your broker to make sure of the available equipment on board the yacht. Pre- arrangements can be made for what is called “Rendezvous Diving”. The chosen dive operator will meet you in a particular cove and whisk you away to a great diving experience! Cameras: Most everyone will have their digital camera with them.  It is a good idea to bring some waterproof disposable cameras for those unforgettable underwater shots of that Turtle! Buy them at home—they are expensive here. Back to Top

Q: What is the cost of a crewed charter

A: The cost of crewed charters vary depending on the size of vessel, motor yacht or sail, number of people on board, etc. The duration of the charter is usually a week, but can be any length. Generally, all food, beverages and water activities are included. When compared to other vacations, the bottom line represents a real value. Diving is usually extra. Please inquire. The price per person starts around $1250 per person. Motor yachts usually cost more than sail boats. Groups on larger yachts can often be less expensive per person than a couple on a small yacht but the majority of the yachts are available for parties from two. Large groups may prefer to charter more than one yacht and travel as a "flotilla". This is very common, especially for corporate groups or family reunions. The summer season may be less expensive than winter in the Caribbean. Summer season is May 1st to December 14th. Winter season is December 15th to April 30th. Xmas and New Years usually have an additional fee. Dockage and shore excursions are extra. Gratuities (generally between 10 and 20% of the cost of the charter) are the norm when the service merits it. Remember that your crew work hard to ensure your U.S. Virgin Islands vacation is a great one. They are your chef, bartender, tour guide, teacher, sharer of natural and cultural history...etc. Once I even performed the services of a barber! Back To Top

Q: What are the Payment Procedures

A: Questions about payment are best handled by Slip Aweigh Yacht Charters over the phone or by email. However, generally, for charters starting less than six (6) months out, a deposit representing 50% of the charter fee is required to confirm your charter and secure the dates for your chosen yacht. For more than six (6) months out, a smaller deposit, 25% will confirm the charter with the next 25% due around six (6) months prior to the charter date. For last minute bookings (or those within 30 days of the charter date) full payment may be required. Ask Slip Aweigh. Various forms of payment are acceptable including wire transfers, cashier and personal checks (with no processing fees), and Visa or Mastercard.   Once deposit/payment has been received and cleared, thereby confirming your charter, you will receive your free gift from Slip Aweigh Yacht Charters. You and your charter party will be delighted to immerse yourself in these two colorful maps packed full of information on the US Virgin Islands and British Virgins Islands cruising grounds! Start your incredible adventure by dreaming your way through these wonderful tropical islands. You will have questions and we at Slip Aweigh Yacht Charters will be happy and eager to help. Back To Top

Q: What kind of documents do we need

A: Passports for all travelers, regardless of age, are necessary to travel between the US Virgin Islands and British Virgin Islands - they are two separate countries. In absolute worst case situations, a photo ID and Birth Certificate with a raised seal (Note 1) might get you through immigration both in the BVI and re-entering the U.S., but a current machine-readable passport (Note 2) for each member of your party will ensure smooth sailing. Please make sure that you check your chosen airline web site and the Department of State web site,for updated requirements. It is essential that you keep current with the travel requirements in this world of constantly changing requirements and regulations. Note 1: As of the remainder of the year 2006, this is still accepted as admissible. PLEASE check current requirement for dates after this year. Note 2:  The US Government has not yet begun demanding that all current passports be machine-readable, but as the earlier issues are phased out, the It, too, is advised if arriving from a foreign country (other than the U.S.) that you check into the most current requirements for tourist Visas. Two good web sites are the  BVI Tourism Site and the US State Department Site.  Back To Top

Q: Do we need Trip Insurance

A: Though no one can make this decision for you, trip Insurance is always a good thing to consider and strongly recommended by Slip Aweigh Professional Yacht Charters. Insure My Trip has an array of options to choose from. Most offer instant quotes online for yacht charter vacations. Back To Top

Q: Cell phones in the Virgin Islands

A: For the busy executive who can’t quite leave business behind, most boats have phone service, or you can get CCT Boat Phone in the BVI just by dialing your call. Wait for Boat Phone operator to come on the line to receive your payment information. BE FOREWARNED: The charges are about $4.00/minute, for both outbound and inbound calls. Your cell phone might work in certain places here. We recommend checking with your service provider prior to arriving for further details. Better yet, tell your clients that there is no service down here and enjoy your vacation!