A sailing vacation in the Caribbean offers more than the usual sailing holiday. Picture yourself in a sailor’s dream, with white-sand beaches, lush scenery, and vibrant cultures at every port. Here, mornings greet you with turquoise bays, while evenings unfold beneath starlit skies.
With CKIM Group, every day on your charter is filled with new surprises and fun experiences! But don’t just take our word for it—here’s what one of our happy clients had to say:
“CKIM Group was fantastic for the whole year leading up to the trip! We had nut allergies and 5 kids on the trip, with one family who wasn’t sure they would be able to make it till the week before, and they handled all of our questions and scenarios so quickly, professionally, thoroughly, and kindly. They had a great rapport with the boat owner and crew.”
Amy, guest on-board Belline II, April 2014
In this article, we’ll show you what it’s like to sail through the breathtaking waters of the Caribbean. From exploring top destinations to choosing the perfect yacht and activities, we’re here to help you.
The Caribbean has more than 7,000 islands, islets, and cays, each with its own special attractions for visitors. Some popular places to visit include:
| Destination | Highlights |
| British Virgin Islands (BVI) | – Known for steady trade winds and protected anchorages, perfect for first-time charterers. – Sail through quiet bays and drop anchor near The Baths, known for its beautiful granite rocks. – Visit Foxy’s Beach Bar on Jost Van Dyke for a lively atmosphere and tasty cocktails. – Explore smaller islands within two hours by boat; charters may allow visits to the U.S. Virgin Islands. |
| Leeward Islands | – Ideal conditions for exhilarating open-water sailing from Antigua to St. Kitts. – Blend of colonial charm, modern marinas, and untouched beaches offering a diverse sailing experience. |
| St. Lucia to St. Vincent | – Dramatic landscapes featuring the towering Pitons of St. Lucia. – Glide south to the Grenadines, known for turquoise waters and soft white sands. – Enjoy coral gardens and wildlife encounters at Palm Island, Bequia, and Tobago Cays, away from tourist routes. |
| Bahamas | – Not part of the Caribbean but offers some of the clearest waters in the world. – Ideal for island-hopping through shallow channels and anchoring near pink-sand beaches. – Indulge in various aquatic adventures while exploring the beauty of the islands. |
Ready to set sail for the first time? Here are some essential tips to help you embark on your adventure:
| Factor | Details |
|---|---|
| Best Time to Sail | From December to April, when trade winds are steady and rain is minimal. |
| Peak Season | During Christmas and New Year’s, popular anchorages are filled with yachts, creating a festive atmosphere. |
| Off-Peak Benefits | Lower rates and fewer crowds at secluded anchorages. |
| Off-Season Notes | Even during hurricane season, places like the ABC Islands and Grenada remain safe for sailing. |
A crewed charter allows you to relax while a captain and chef handle sailing and meals, making it great for beginners. For experienced sailors, a bareboat charter in the Caribbean lets you explore the seas at your own pace.
Ultimately, the best vessel for you depends on your level of experience. Here are some options to consider:
| Category | Monohulls | Catamarans | Powerboats |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sailing Experience | Traditional sailing with better windward performance | Greater stability and comfort | Fast cruising without the complexities of sailing |
| Draft | Deeper draft for enhanced stability in rough seas | Shallow draft for easy access to lagoons | Varies, often designed for deep waters |
| Deck Space | Limited deck space | Spacious decks for lounging and socializing | Varies, but typically more compact |
| Comfort | Can sway more in rough waters | Sway less, reducing seasickness | Stable ride, usually designed for comfort |
| Navigation | May struggle in shallow waters | Excellent for exploring hidden gems | Can quickly cover distances |
| Experience | Hands-on sailing experience with the elements | Less hands-on, focus on relaxation | Quick distances covered |
| Amenities | Varies, often with basic features | Usually modern and comfortable | Frequently equipped with luxury amenities |
| Environmental Impact | Less fuel-efficient | Generally more fuel-efficient | Typically less fuel-efficient |
| Preference | Appeals to traditional sailors | Favored for comfort and space | Popular for speed and convenience |
In many places, you need a sailing license for bareboat charters. Sailing professionals should have the right certifications, like those from the American Sailing Association (ASA).
Let ILX Travel, part of the CKIM Group, plan your ideal sailing route in the Caribbean and beyond! Share your travel preferences, and we’ll handle all the details for an unforgettable adventure on the water. Whether you’re looking for quiet coves or busy ports, we are here to make your sailing dreams come true.
Here are some fun activities you can enjoy with a Caribbean Yacht Charter:
Anyone can help the ocean by using eco-friendly practices. One simple way is to sail with wind power when you can. Many modern powerboats are also becoming more environmentally friendly, with some using solar power. This change helps reduce our need for fossil fuels and makes sailing quieter and cleaner.
Together, we can make a real difference while enjoying the Caribbean!
Get ready to sail in the beautiful Caribbean! This trip is more than just a vacation; each sail brings new adventures.
At BVISAIL, our Yacht Charter Brokers are experts at planning crewed yacht vacations just for you. We take care of everything so you can focus on making great memories in the Caribbean. So, pack your bags and get ready for an amazing trip!
For more questions, please visit our FAQ page.
Contact us at 1-321-777-1707 or complete this form to discuss your vacation plans.