The US Virgin Islands offer a varied setting for a private Caribbean yacht charter, combining island scenery, sheltered bays and a choice of coastal experiences. St Thomas is known for its marinas and lively waterfront, while St John is appreciated for its natural landscapes and protected areas. St Croix has its own distinct character and may suit a longer itinerary, depending on the yacht and departure arrangements. For an overview of the region, see our Caribbean yacht charter page.
Start in St Thomas
St Thomas is the usual starting point for many Virgin Islands trips, with marinas, a busy waterfront and easy access to neighbouring islands. It suits guests who want to begin with a day or two of cruising before deciding how far to go. Departure points, boarding times and provisioning should be confirmed in advance, and the route is always subject to the captain’s assessment of weather and sea conditions.
Discover St John and Its Natural Coastline
St John is known for its green hillsides, sheltered bays and the protected landscape along its shoreline. Seen from the water, the coast offers a quieter, more natural setting than the busier harbours nearby. Because many areas are protected, mooring, anchoring and swimming are subject to local rules, so the captain will advise where the yacht can stop and for how long.
Consider St Croix for a Longer Journey
St Croix lies farther south and has its own distinct character, so it suits guests with more time for a longer itinerary. The passage is longer than between the nearer islands, so the cruising time depends on the yacht, the conditions and the route. Ask for a realistic passage plan before confirming, and keep some flexibility in the schedule.
Sailing Between the US and British Virgin Islands
Many guests combine the USVI with the neighbouring British Virgin Islands, which are close by. If you would like to extend the trip, read our guides to Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Norman Island, or browse the 10 best BVI anchorages. The two territories have separate customs and immigration arrangements, so ask the team and the captain what is required before planning a route that crosses between them. If you are unsure whether to charter with or without a crew, our guide to bareboat vs crewed charters in the BVI explains the differences.
Choose a Yacht for Your USVI Holiday
The right yacht depends on the number of guests, the length of the trip and the level of comfort you want on board. Catamarans are a popular choice in the Virgin Islands for their generous outdoor space and stability, and our guide to catamaran vs monohull charters in the Caribbean compares the options. To see how a crewed charter works day to day, read what to expect from a crewed catamaran charter.
Examples from our Caribbean fleet include the Bali 4.8 catamaran, the Sunreef 70 and the Sunreef 82. Availability, departure ports and specifications vary by date and season, so confirm them for the yacht you choose.
When to Plan Your Trip
Weather, availability and how busy you want the islands to feel all change through the year, so it helps to decide your priorities first. Our guide to the best time to charter a yacht in the Caribbean compares the seasons, and our top 5 Caribbean islands by private yacht gives ideas for wider itineraries.
Plan Your US Virgin Islands Charter
Share your dates, group size, departure point and the kind of trip you have in mind, and our team will help you explore suitable options, subject to availability and the captain’s confirmation. Ask for a written breakdown of the charter price and confirm whether fuel, food and drinks, port fees and taxes are included or charged separately. Request a US Virgin Islands charter or contact Riviera Boat with any questions.
The US Virgin Islands offer a varied setting for a private Caribbean yacht charter, combining island scenery, sheltered bays and a choice of coastal experiences. St Thomas is known for its marinas and lively waterfront, while St John is appreciated for its natural landscapes and protected areas. St Croix has its own distinct character and may suit a longer itinerary, depending on the yacht and departure arrangements.