AEOLUS 77
77FT · SAILING CATAMARAN
Pricing from $84,000/week
8 Guests · 4 Cabins · 4 Crew
Caribbean
Western Mediterranean
Eastern Mediterranean
South Pacific
Crewed catamaran and motor yacht charters across St. Thomas, St. John, and the cays in between — direct flights from the US, no passport required, the same waters as the BVI.
Why the US Virgin Islands
The US Virgin Islands sit at the eastern end of the Caribbean's Greater Antilles — three main islands (St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix) and dozens of smaller cays, all under the US flag. Charters operate primarily out of St. Thomas and the bays around St. John, where the cruising water is sheltered, the trade winds are reliable, and the underwater visibility runs to 60 feet on a typical day.
What sets the USVI apart from the rest of the Caribbean is logistics. US citizens fly in on a domestic ticket, clear no customs, and step onto a charter yacht the same day. Direct flights from New York, Miami, Atlanta, Charlotte, Newark, and Boston land at Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas in three to four hours. No passport, no immigration line, no visa — for many guests it's the simplest international vacation that doesn't involve crossing a border.
The cruising ground itself rewards a captain who knows it. St. John is two-thirds national park; entire bays — Trunk Bay, Maho Bay, Hawksnest, Cinnamon — are protected, undeveloped, and accessible only by boat. St. Thomas brings the contrast of dining, marinas, and nightlife when guests want shore time. And the BVI sit just to the east, close enough that many guests spend two or three days of a USVI charter exploring Tortola, Norman Island, or Jost Van Dyke before sailing back.
Four characteristics that distinguish the USVI from other Caribbean charter grounds.
US citizens charter the USVI on a domestic ticket. No passport, no customs clearance, no immigration line. Direct flights from most US East Coast and Midwest gateways land at STT in three to four hours, and the embarkation marinas — Yacht Haven Grande in Charlotte Amalie, American Yacht Harbor at Red Hook, Compass Point on the south side — sit 15 to 45 minutes from the airport. For first-time crewed-charter guests, the USVI removes nearly every logistical friction point.
Beyond the main islands, the cruising ground holds a string of uninhabited cays — Hans Lollik, Inner and Outer Brass, Congo, Lovango — most with their own protected anchorage and white-sand beach. Christmas Cove off Great St. James is a regular sundowner stop with a single floating pizza boat and crystal water; Hans Lollik delivers a full day of solitude on a national park-style island with no facilities and no other yachts.
Trunk Bay's underwater snorkel trail is the single most-photographed snorkel site in the Caribbean — markers identify reef species along a 225-yard self-guided route. Beyond Trunk, the reef systems around Waterlemon Cay (St. John's north shore), Buck Island (off St. Thomas), and the leeward sides of Lovango and Congo offer reliable visibility, healthy coral, and frequent encounters with eagle rays, turtles, and reef sharks.
St. John is two-thirds Virgin Islands National Park — undeveloped beaches, hiking trails, and protected anchorages on every shoreline. St. Thomas is the launchpad: a marina embarkation, then a short sail to Magens Bay — the deep half-moon harbor on the north shore that's been on the National Geographic top-ten beaches list since the 1960s — and the chain of offshore cays beyond it (Hans Lollik, Inner Brass, Lovango). A typical week alternates St. John's parkland anchorages with the cays off St. Thomas's north shore.
A hand-picked selection of crewed charter yachts for US Virgin Islands — yachts and crews we know firsthand.
77FT · SAILING CATAMARAN
Pricing from $84,000/week
8 Guests · 4 Cabins · 4 Crew
67FT · SAILING CATAMARAN
Pricing from $53,000/week
8 Guests · 4 Cabins · 3 Crew
Your week is shaped around your group's interests, the season, and the conditions on the water — your captain tailors the days as they unfold. Treat these itineraries as starting points for inspiration.
Crewed Itinerary · USVI/BVI
Our suggested 7-day USVI sailing itinerary starts with a convenient pickup in the US Virgin Islands and crosses into the heart of the British Virgin Islands. This US Virgin Islands itinerary ensures a stress-free and luxurious experience, with a professional captain and private chef handling every detail. You'll explore the iconic beauty of the BVI while enjoying the ultimate in comfort and relaxation. Perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.
Most BVI charters force you to fly into Tortola or take the St. Thomas–West End ferry first. This USVI sailing itinerary skips that — you fly into St. Thomas (STT), step aboard the same day, and let your captain handle the BVI Customs clearance underway. You get an extra night on the water, and you sail Buck Island and the USVI's south-shore anchorages before crossing the Drake Channel into the BVI proper.
The week splits roughly 2 days USVI / 5 days BVI: Christmas Cove and Caneel Bay first, then the iconic BVI loop — Norman Island, The Baths at Virgin Gorda, the North Sound, Jost Van Dyke, and Peter Island. About 80 nautical miles of sailing total. If your group prefers to fly into Tortola directly, we also have a 7-day Tortola-only BVI sailing itinerary.
Day 1 of 7 · St. Thomas → St. John
After landing at Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas, your adventure begins with a short taxi ride to the marina—either Yacht Haven Grande or American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook. Here, you'll be warmly welcomed by your professional crew and shown aboard your luxurious yacht. Settle in, enjoy a refreshing drink, and let the relaxation begin.
Once you're ready, your crew will get underway for a short sail to the breathtaking National Park beaches of St. John. Spend your first evening anchored off one of the island's pristine beaches. Maho Beach is a favorite for its serene waters and near-guaranteed turtle sightings, while Trunk Bay, considered one of the world's most famous beaches, offers stunning views and powdery white sand.
Unwind, take a dip in the turquoise waters, and enjoy a chef-prepared dinner under the stars as you embrace the start of your unforgettable journey.
Day Highlights
Day 2 of 7 · St. John → Norman Island
After a peaceful start to your morning, your captain will handle clearing customs at the West End of Tortola while you relax aboard. With the paperwork sorted, your adventure in the British Virgin Islands truly begins.
In the afternoon, we'll set sail to nearby Norman Island, a haven for relaxation and adventure. Drop anchor in the protected waters of The Bight, where you can enjoy a variety of activities. Snorkel at the famous Norman Island Caves, rumored to have inspired Treasure Island, or simply float and soak up the sun from the deck of your yacht.
As the sun dips low, enjoy a cocktail while your private chef prepares another memorable meal. Cap off your day with a stunning sunset view over the water and the option to visit the legendary Willy T, a floating bar known for its lively atmosphere.
Day Highlights
Day 3 of 7 · Norman Island → North Sound
Start your day with an early sail to The Baths, one of the British Virgin Islands' most iconic and enchanting destinations. While you rest or savor a quiet morning coffee, your crew will guide the yacht to this natural wonder. Arriving early ensures you can explore the magical granite boulders, tidal pools, and grottoes in serene solitude before the crowds. Wander the famous caves trail, capturing unforgettable photos along the way. Afterward, return to your yacht for a refreshing breakfast prepared by your chef.
Next, sail up the Sir Francis Drake Channel to George Dog, one of the idyllic islands in the Dogs. Here, you can spend your late morning snorkeling vibrant reefs, sunbathing on deck, or simply floating in the crystal-clear water. It's the perfect way to unwind before enjoying a delicious lunch back on board.
In the afternoon, you'll continue on to the famed North Sound, celebrated as one of the Caribbean's most beautiful natural harbors. To escape the busier areas, your crew will anchor in nearby Eustatia Sound—a peaceful retreat within easy reach of all the action.
The rest of your day is filled with choices: snorkel the vibrant Eustatia Reef, where you might spot an old cannon nestled within the reef—a fascinating relic of the past. Walk the pristine sands of Prickly Pear Island, or take a short tender ride to the iconic Bitter End Yacht Club for boutique shopping and waterside lounging. As evening approaches, head to Saba Rock for a magical sunset and the enchanting tarpon feeding. A visit to Leverick Bay is another great option.
Day Highlights
Day 4 of 7 · North Sound → Brewers Bay
Begin your day with fishing lines in the water as you leave the North Sound, enjoying a scenic downwind sail along the northern coastline of Tortola. Midday, your crew will anchor at the breathtaking Guana Island. While the eco-resort remains private, you can relax on the pristine white sands of White Bay or explore the serene Muskmelon Bay just to the north, known for its vibrant marine life and excellent snorkeling opportunities.
After a leisurely lunch and some time to unwind, continue cruising the picturesque north shore of Tortola before settling in for the evening at Brewers Bay. This lesser-visited gem offers a tranquil anchorage and a pristine beach perfect for swimming, floating, or simply soaking in the island's beauty. As the sun sets, cocktails and another delicious dinner await, with the option of ending your evening watching a movie under the stars on your yacht's projector.
Day Highlights
Day 5 of 7 · Brewers Bay → Little JVD
Sail to the iconic Jost Van Dyke, an island rich in history and surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. Begin the day by anchoring near Sandy Spit, a picture-perfect islet with soft white sand and crystal-clear waters. This tiny island is an idyllic spot for sunbathing, enjoying a picnic, or simply soaking in the serene 360-degree views.
Make the day your own with activities tailored to your group's preferences. Sample the Soggy Dollar Bar's famous concoction - the Painkiller at the lively White Bay. Take a hike from Foxy's Taboo to the Bubbly Pool, a unique sea-fed pool that's as refreshing as it is fun. Alternatively, visit nearby Sandy Cay, known for its pristine beach and short hiking trail through lush greenery. Whether lounging aboard, swimming, or making use of your yacht's water toys, the beauty and charm of Jost Van Dyke promise an unforgettable experience.
Day Highlights
Day 6 of 7 · Little JVD → Peter Island
Start your day with a leisurely morning as your crew prepares the yacht for another spectacular day. Your first destination is The Indians, a breathtaking group of rocky islets renowned for offering some of the best snorkeling in the BVIs. Dive into the crystal-clear waters and marvel at the vibrant coral reefs and marine life that call these unique formations home.
After your underwater adventure, we'll set sail for Peter Island's Little Harbour, a serene and secluded anchorage. Your yacht will be secured with a stern tie just feet from the shoreline, creating the perfect setting for a relaxing afternoon. Lounge on deck, swim in the turquoise waters, or simply float and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
As the day winds down, enjoy cocktails and a gourmet dinner prepared by your private chef. Cap off the evening with a breathtaking sunset over the calm waters—a picture-perfect way to savor your final night in the BVIs.
Day Highlights
Day 7 of 7 · Peter Island → Christmas Cove
After clearing customs as you return to the U.S. Virgin Islands, your yacht will sail towards St. John for a final morning of island exploration. Choose from Waterlemon Cay or Hawksnest Bay, where you can snorkel vibrant coral reefs, hike scenic trails, or simply relax on the sandy shores.
Following lunch aboard, the adventure continues offshore to Buck Island, part of the National Wildlife Refuge. This pristine island offers clear waters for snorkeling and swimming, with opportunities to spot sea turtles, tropical fish, and colorful coral reefs. Onshore, enjoy short walks and take in stunning views of the surrounding sea. Buck Island provides a perfect mix of tranquility and adventure to close your Caribbean journey.
For a final evening in the islands, head to Christmas Cove where you'll celebrate with cocktails and another fantastic sunset.
Day Highlights
Day 8 · Departure
Your final morning in the Virgin Islands begins with a serene start aboard your yacht. Relish a leisurely breakfast as you take in the breathtaking turquoise waters one last time. It's the perfect moment to reflect on your unforgettable journey through the islands.
Your crew will set sail back to the marina, ensuring a smooth and timely arrival for your noon departure. Once ashore, your transportation—whether to the airport or other accomodations—will be seamlessly handled. As you bid farewell, take with you memories of an extraordinary adventure and dreams of returning to this Caribbean paradise.
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Bookmark this voyage →Crewed Itinerary · USVI
Our 4-day US Virgin Islands itinerary packs in the best of the USVI for guests looking to unwind, explore, and indulge—without needing a full week. From the moment you land in St. Thomas, you're just minutes away from stepping aboard your private yacht, where a professional captain and personal chef handle every detail.
Four days isn't quite enough to add the BVI to a USVI charter — but it is enough to do the USVI properly. This US Virgin Islands itinerary covers the marquee USVI stops: Maho Bay on St. John for sea turtles, Lime Out for floating tacos in Coral Bay, Magens Bay on St. Thomas, and Salt Pond for the snorkeling. No passport required, no Customs paperwork, and no ferry from St. Thomas — you board at Yacht Haven Grande or Crown Bay and you're at anchor by sunset.
About 35 nautical miles of sailing across the four days. Lighter on cruising distance than a BVI week, heavier on long lunches and afternoon snorkels. If you have the calendar, the 7-day USVI/BVI hybrid charter (St. Thomas pickup, BVI loop) is the higher-value option — but for a long-weekend US Virgin Islands sailing itinerary, four days from St. Thomas is exactly right.
Day 1 of 4 · St. Thomas → St. John
After landing at Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas, your adventure begins with a short taxi ride to the marina—either Yacht Haven Grande or American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook. Here, you'll be warmly welcomed by your professional crew and shown aboard your luxurious yacht. Settle in, enjoy a refreshing drink, and let the relaxation begin.
Once you're ready, your crew will get underway for a short sail to the breathtaking National Park beaches of St. John. Spend your first evening anchored off one of the island's pristine beaches. Maho Beach is a favorite for its serene waters and near-guaranteed turtle sightings, while Trunk Bay, considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, offers stunning views and powdery white sand.
Unwind, take a dip in the turquoise waters, and enjoy a chef-prepared dinner under the stars as you embrace the start of your unforgettable journey.
Day Highlights
Day 2 of 4 · St. John → Salt Pond Bay
Ease into the rhythm of island time with a morning sail along the dramatic eastern coastline of St. John. You'll enjoy postcard-worthy views of both the USVI and the neighboring British Virgin Islands as you cruise past secluded coves and rugged cliffs.
Around midday, drop anchor in Coral Bay and dinghy over to Lime Out, a floating taco bar famous for its creative bites and cold drinks—served right from the water. It's a quintessentially Caribbean experience you won't want to miss.
After lunch, continue south around the tip of St. John and into Salt Pond Bay, a peaceful anchorage tucked into the Virgin Islands National Park. Spend the afternoon snorkeling, paddleboarding, or stretching your legs on the scenic hike to Ram Head, where sweeping views await. The day ends with another gourmet dinner prepared by your crew and a quiet night under a canopy of stars.
Day Highlights
Day 3 of 4 · Salt Pond Bay → Magens Bay
After a leisurely breakfast, hoist the sails and enjoy a beautiful downwind run along the southern coast of St. John and over toward the north shore of St. Thomas.
Your midday stop is Coconut Bay, nestled between the uninhabited Hans Lollik Islands. This off-the-beaten-path anchorage boasts crystal-clear water, excellent snorkeling, and a peaceful beach—perfect for a swim and lunch on board.
From there, head west to Magens Bay, one of the most stunning natural harbors in the Caribbean. Drop anchor in its wide, calm bight and take advantage of the ideal conditions for water sports, paddleboarding, or simply floating the afternoon away. As golden hour approaches, sip cocktails on deck and soak in the scenery—this is a bay built for lingering.
Day Highlights
Day 4 of 4 · Magens Bay → Honeymoon Bay
Your final full day starts with a morning cruise west around the tip of St. Thomas. Set your sights on Flat Cay, a small, rocky outcrop surrounded by vibrant coral reefs. This is a fantastic spot for snorkeling and swimming before winding down the trip.
In the afternoon, make your way to your final anchorage: Honeymoon Bay on Water Island or Christmas Cove. Both are favorites among seasoned sailors, with calm water, great swimming, and front-row sunset views. At Honeymoon Bay, go ashore to grab a drink at Dinghy's Beach Bar, or kick back on board for a final night of limin' under the stars.
Day Highlights
Day 5 · Departure
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast aboard, one last swim if you're feeling adventurous, and then begin the short motor back to your marina in St. Thomas. Your crew will assist with departure logistics and help you wrap up what's sure to be an unforgettable Virgin Islands getaway.
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Bookmark this voyage →Crewed Itinerary · US Virgin Islands
The USVI yacht charter itinerary that's right for a full week — not the long weekend, not the BVI hybrid — is the figure-eight we run from St. Thomas. You step off the plane at STT, get handed a cold towel and an iced coffee in the cab, and twenty minutes later your captain is casting off the lines at Yacht Haven Grande. By the time the chef has the first canapés out on the cockpit table, the marina is dropping behind your stern and the bow is pointed up the coast for a sunset anchor at Magens Bay. No passport stamp. No Customs morning. No ferry. The week is already underway.
Seven days is what the US Virgin Islands deserve when you're not crossing to the BVI. A long weekend gets you the postcard beaches and a passable taste. The hybrid week puts you in British waters by Day 2. This is the week that gives the USVI their own gravity — three days of St. John on the early-morning and late-afternoon windows the day-charter fleet doesn't get, a south-shore hike to one of the best vistas in the Caribbean, a long crossing day to the wildest corner of St. Thomas, sunset in the prettiest bay in the islands, and a closing dinner ordered off a pizza boat anchored a hundred yards off your stern. About 70 nautical miles total — most of which you'll sail in shorts before lunch.
The shape is the point. Day 1 leaves the dock and traces St. Thomas the long way around to a sunset anchor at Magens. Day 2 crosses Pillsbury Sound to Caneel inside the National Park. Days 3 and 4 trace St. John — Trunk, Cinnamon, and Maho for the postcards on Day 3; a long Day 4 east along the north shore with the BVI in sight, into Coral Bay for Lime Out, and west along the south shore to Salt Pond for the Ram Head climb. Day 5 crosses back to St. Thomas via Hans Lollik for the goats and the snorkel, ending at Magens again — the figure-eight crossover. The last two nights drop down the south side: Dinghy's Beach Bar at Honeymoon Beach on Water Island, then Christmas Cove for the close. If you only have four days, see the <a href="/itineraries/4-day-usvi-sailing-adventure" class="underline decoration-1 underline-offset-2 hover:no-underline">4-day USVI sailing adventure</a>. If you want British waters in the mix, see the <a href="/itineraries/bvi-yacht-charter-usvi-pickup-7-days" class="underline decoration-1 underline-offset-2 hover:no-underline">7-day USVI/BVI hybrid</a>.
Day 1 of 7 · St. Thomas → Magens Bay
STT lands non-stop from most US East Coast gateways, and the taxi ride to the marina is the only traffic you'll sit in all week. Yacht Haven Grande is fifteen minutes from the terminal; American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook is twenty. Your captain meets you at the passerelle, the mate takes the bags, and the chef has drinks ready in the cockpit before you've finished saying hello. The first thing you'll notice on deck is the temperature — a flat, dry 84° that won't move until November.
Lines come off mid-afternoon and the route traces St. Thomas the long way around — east past Red Hook and Cowpet Bay, north up the east coast with St. John laid out across Pillsbury Sound to starboard, around the northeast tip, and west along the wild north shore. Two and a half hours under sail with the trade wind on the beam and the chef putting canapés out. The destination is Magens Bay.
Magens is a mile-long horseshoe of white sand on St. Thomas's north shore, ringed by green hills — routinely ranked among the most beautiful bays in the world. Cruise-ship day-trippers arrive in the late morning and clear out by four. You arrive at four. From then until sunset the bay belongs to the anchored yachts: paddleboards across the inner curve, a swim ashore, the chef's first course on deck as the light on the western ridge turns to gold. Whatever was on the calendar before noon today is already gone.
Day Highlights
Day 2 of 7 · Magens → Caneel Bay
Mornings at Magens are quiet — the day-tripper buses don't arrive until after eleven, so the first three hours of light belong to the anchored fleet. Coffee on deck. A swim across the inner curve. The chef's omelet at the cockpit table while the captain raises anchor. By the time the first day boat shows at the beach, you're already underway.
The route runs east along St. Thomas's north shore, around the northeast tip, and south across Pillsbury Sound — the narrow channel that separates St. Thomas from St. John. Ninety minutes under sail, mostly downwind. By midday the bow is pointed at Caneel Bay on St. John's northwest corner, just inside the Virgin Islands National Park.
Caneel is wide, calm, and quiet by late afternoon. The resort that gave the bay its name is closed for redevelopment, the day-charter fleet has cleared out, and the bay reads the way it would have a century ago. The crew runs the tender ashore for a walk on the empty beach, or you stay aboard for a long swim off the platform. Dinner is on deck. Across the channel, the lights of St. Thomas come up — somewhere over that ridge is Magens, where you anchored last night.
Day Highlights
Day 3 of 7 · Caneel → Trunk → Maho
Mornings come slowly when there's no road within a mile of the anchor. Coffee on the foredeck, a swim before breakfast, then a four-mile hop east to Trunk Bay — the beach that's been on every Caribbean travel poster for fifty years and somehow still earns it. The cay just offshore carries the only marked underwater snorkel trail in the National Park system — markers in the reef identify the elkhorn and brain coral as you fin past. The crew drops the tender, you go ashore for the morning, and the chef packs a lunch so you can stay an hour past the day-trippers' departure when the crowd thins.
Around one, the yacht slips a mile east to Cinnamon — the longest beach on St. John, almost always empty in the afternoon — and again to Maho for the overnight. Maho is the turtle bay. The seagrass meadow that runs the length of the beach feeds a resident population of greens and hawksbills, and the snorkeling is the easiest in the Caribbean: slip in from the swim platform, drift twenty yards with the current, meet two or three of them before you've decided to. They surface every few minutes to breathe — you can hear them from the deck. Maho also has the most popular shoreside hang on St. John — a beach bar set back from the sand under the trees, food trucks, cold drinks, live music most afternoons. Dinghy in for a sundowner or stay aboard. Either way, by eight the bay is silent except for the halyards tapping the mast.
Day Highlights
Day 4 of 7 · Maho → Lime Out → Salt Pond
The longest day of the week and the best one. Slow breakfast at Maho, then — if the group's up for it — a short hop east to Waterlemon Cay for a morning snorkel. Waterlemon is the small green island off Leinster Bay that's the most concentrated reef in the USVI: coral heads in fifteen feet of water on the protected south side, schools of blue tang, parrotfish loud enough to hear biting the coral, the occasional southern stingray flushing off the sandy gaps. Twenty unhurried minutes to circumnavigate the cay; the current works for you the whole way around if you start where the captain says. Back aboard by mid-morning.
From Waterlemon the yacht rounds Mary Point and works east along St. John's north shore on a beam reach, the BVI laid out across the channel to port — Tortola filling the horizon, Norman Island sitting to the southeast, the Drake Channel running blue beyond. You round the east tip of St. John under sail and drop into Coral Bay just before noon. Coral is one of the last working sailing communities in the Caribbean — a small harbor on the south side of St. John that never got the resort makeover the rest of the territory got. The centerpiece sits in the middle of the bay: Lime Out, a floating taco bar that exists only on the water. There's no shore to walk to. You dinghy over from the yacht, tie up to a knotted rope at the side of the platform, and order from a chalkboard at water level — tacos, rice bowls, whatever the day's special is. Drinks come in plastic pints. You eat on the platform with your feet hanging off the edge, hot sauce on everything.
After lunch the yacht slips a short distance west along the south shore to Salt Pond — a quiet National Park anchorage under a ridge that gives the next hour its name. The Ram Head trail leaves from the beach, climbs through cactus and turpentine trees, and runs out the spine of a narrow point that drops three hundred feet on both sides. The reward at the end is the southernmost piece of St. John: Caribbean Sea on the right, Atlantic on the left, your yacht in miniature in the cove below. A forty-five-minute walk from the dinghy to the point and back, and the light gets better the later you go. Salt Pond stays calm well after dark — one of the only south-shore anchorages with no swell — and the breeze drops to nothing by ten. Dinner on deck.
Day Highlights
Day 5 of 7 · Salt Pond → Hans Lollik → Magens
Today is the longest crossing of the week, and it's still under three hours. The yacht slips out of Salt Pond at nine, rounds the east tip of St. John, and works north across Pillsbury Sound on a beam reach. By noon you're anchored at Coconut Bay — the protected cove between the two Hans Lollik islands off St. Thomas's north coast. Shallow, clear, warm. The snorkeling along the south shore of Great Hans Lollik is good in fifteen feet of water — coral heads, eagle rays in season — and the hillside above the beach is grazed by a small herd of feral goats that watch you eat lunch from a rock fifty feet up the slope. The whole anchorage is privately owned, uninhabited, and almost always yours.
After lunch the yacht slips west along the north coast of St. Thomas, past the long empty stretch of Botany Bay, and into Magens — the second time you've anchored here this week. The figure-eight passes through Magens twice on purpose: Day 1 from the marina at sunset, today from the south after a longer crossing and a wilder lunch stop. Different light, different angle, same payoff. Cruise-ship day-trippers arrive in the late morning and leave by four. You arrive at four. From then until sunset the bay is yours — paddleboards across the inner curve, a long swim ashore, a walk on the empty beach with a cold drink in hand. By seven the bay is dark except for the riding lights of two or three other yachts.
Dinner is on deck. Whatever the chef's been building toward all week is on the table tonight.
Day Highlights
Day 6 of 7 · Magens → Honeymoon Bay
Today is a long, lazy sail around the western end of St. Thomas. Coffee on deck at Magens, one last paddleboard run across the empty bay before the day-trippers come back, and the yacht slips lines mid-morning. The route runs west along the north coast, past the long quiet stretch of Botany Bay, around the western tip of the island, and down the south side toward Charlotte Amalie. Two and a half hours, mostly downwind. The chef puts lunch out underway.
The afternoon anchorage is Honeymoon Beach on Water Island — a small island just off St. Thomas's south side, less than a half-mile across, that catches the sun straight on from noon to sunset. The bay is a U-shaped cove with a curve of white sand, mooring balls for the yacht, and a single shoreside operation: Dinghy's Beach Bar. The bar is set back under a canopy of sea grapes, runs a short menu of rum drinks and conch fritters, and most afternoons there's a steel band working through the standards. You ride the tender in, sit at a picnic table buried in the sand, and the rest of the day takes care of itself.
Cocktails and dinner back aboard. The lights of Charlotte Amalie come up just across the channel — the closest you'll be to the city all week.
Day Highlights
Day 7 of 7 · Honeymoon → Christmas Cove
The last full day is an easy sail east along St. Thomas's south shore — past Charlotte Amalie, past Red Hook, past the ferry traffic to St. John — and into Christmas Cove, the protected anchorage between St. Thomas and Great St. James Island. The cove has been a charter favorite for forty years for the snorkel alone: a healthy elkhorn stand on the north shore of Great St. James, a wide range of reef fish, and visibility that pushes sixty feet on a good day. The captain drops you in for a long swim before the afternoon light goes.
The closing dinner is the one this week is known for. Pizza Pi is a 37-foot sailboat moored in the middle of the cove, converted into a wood-fired pizza kitchen. You radio the order from your cockpit, and twenty minutes later the boxes come over by tender, still warm from the oven. Your chef takes the night off. You eat on the foredeck while the cove fills with other sailboats doing exactly the same thing, the sun drops behind St. Thomas, and the rigging clinks on every yacht at anchor. It's the right way to close the week.
Day Highlights
Day 8 · Departure
Breakfast at anchor — coffee, fruit, one last omelet — and the yacht raises mid-morning for the short run west to the marina. The crew handles the bags and the cab. Most guests fly out of STT with the same thought: they came expecting a long-weekend version of the BVI, and they leave understanding the US Virgin Islands are their own week.
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When to go, what it costs, and how to get there — the practical answers guests ask before booking a US Virgin Islands crewed yacht charter.
December through April is the highest-volume booking window — steady east-southeast trade winds at 15 to 22 knots, low humidity, daytime highs in the low 80s, water temperatures in the high 70s. The cruising ground is at its busiest over Christmas, New Year, Easter, and Spring Break, when the best yachts and crews book 6 to 12 months in advance. Cold fronts occasionally drop down from the US mainland, bringing a day or two of squalls and shifted winds, but the USVI's southern position softens their impact compared to the Bahamas.
May, June, and November sit between the peak and hurricane seasons. Trade winds remain steady, water temperatures climb into the 80s, and rates typically fall 15–25% from peak. Tropical activity is statistically rare in May, June, and the back half of November. Cruising traffic thins as full-time cruisers leave the area ahead of hurricane season, leaving anchorages quieter than they are mid-winter. For guests choosing between windows, this is typically the best value the USVI offers.
$25,000–$120,000 per week
Crewed yacht charters in the US Virgin Islands typically run from $25,000 to $120,000+ per week, depending on yacht size, build year, and crew. Most yachts charter all-inclusive — the base weekly rate covers yacht, crew, all meals, a standard bar (beer, wine, spirits), fuel for normal cruising, water sports, and customary mooring fees. Select yachts run plus-expenses instead, where the base rate covers yacht and crew only, and food, beverages, fuel, and mooring fees are paid through an Advance Provisioning Allowance (APA) — a pre-funded allowance set at 25–35% of the base rate, with itemized accounting and any unused balance refunded at trip end. Unlike the BVI, the USVI does not levy a separate cruising tax, which makes a like-for-like USVI charter modestly less expensive than the same yacht chartered in the British Virgin Islands. Crew gratuities, customary at 15–20% of the base rate, are paid directly to the captain on disembarkation.
About chartering in the US Virgin Islands.