How to Get to Your Crewed Charter

Getting to Your Yacht Charter: British Virgin Islands

Fly into Tortola (EIS)

If your crewed yacht charter begins in the British Virgin Islands, flying directly into Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, Tortola, is the most straightforward option. American Airlines now offers direct flights from Miami (MIA) to Tortola, making it a convenient choice if it fits your travel plans. Once you land, taxis are readily available to take you to your marina.

While connecting flights from San Juan (SJU) are an alternative, they often result in later arrivals, which can complicate the start of your charter. Regional carriers also tend to have more delays or cancellations, so we recommend flying directly to Tortola if possible.

Fly into St. Thomas (STT), US Virgin Islands

For more direct flight options, consider flying into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas, USVI. From there, you’ll need to travel to the BVI via ferry or private water taxi. This option offers flexibility but requires some additional coordination.

If you choose this route, we highly recommend taking a private water taxi for a seamless transfer. After landing, a 30-40 minute taxi ride takes you to Red Hook, where your water taxi captain will meet you. From there:

• You’ll zip past the beautiful National Park beaches of St. John.
• Customs clearance is handled by the captain at West End, BVI—you won’t even need to step off the boat.
• You’ll arrive directly at your yacht at either a marina or a beautiful anchorage, ready to begin your adventure.

Private water taxis not only save time but also eliminate long lines at customs, allowing you to start your trip with ease (and a complimentary drink in hand).

We recommend:

• Island Time Water Taxi (info@islandtimeltd.com, +1 284-495-9993)
• Chillout Charters (chilloutchartersbvi@gmail.com, +1 284-340-1122)

Public Ferry from St. Thomas to Tortola

If you prefer a more affordable option, public ferries run from Charlotte Amalie or Red Hook in St. Thomas to Tortola. The scenic ride takes approximately 50 minutes but may include a stop at St. John, depending on the route.

Keep in mind ferry schedules may not align perfectly with your flight, which can add to your travel time.

Arrival Timing

Whenever possible, aim to arrive at your final destination by midday. This allows you to board your yacht promptly and settle in. If your arrival is later in the day, consider a sleepaboard option, where you can stay on the yacht the night before your charter officially begins.

Getting to Your Yacht Charter: US Virgin Islands

Flying into the Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas is the simplest way to start your charter in the US Virgin Islands. Once you’ve landed, your transfer to the marina is quick and easy, typically:

• Yacht Haven Grande in Charlotte Amalie (15 minutes) or
• American Yacht Harbor in Red Hook (30-45 minutes)

Getting to Your Yacht Charter: Bahamas

Most charters in the Bahamas begin in Nassau, the capital, which is well-connected with numerous direct flights from major US cities. Once you arrive, it’s a short transfer to your marina, where your yacht will be waiting.

Other popular starting points in the Bahamas include:

• Abacos: If your charter begins here, a short connecting flight to Marsh Harbour or Treasure Cay is required.
• Staniel Cay (Exumas): For charters starting in the middle of the Exumas, you’ll need a connecting flight from Nassau to Staniel Cay. This offers a unique opportunity to begin your trip directly in one of the most picturesque parts of the region.

Getting to Your Yacht Charter: St. Martin

Starting your charter in St. Martin is just as straightforward. Fly into Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), one of the Caribbean’s busiest and most accessible airports. From there, it’s a quick taxi ride to the marina. Your crew will be ready to welcome you and start your journey exploring the pristine waters and islands of the region.