Before the days of the internet and the ability to search and find out about different options for vacations, most people used travel agents for international travel and vacations. Often these travel agents would use charter brokers, professionals who organize luxury boat charters for individuals or groups.
Today, it is very simple to go online and book your own boat charters in BVI and communicate directly with the charter staff. This is a great opportunity to create your own unique itinerary and vacation, plus you can also get an idea of what to see and do based on suggestions from the charter company.
When traveling to the British Virgin Islands, booking a charter is a wonderful start to your vacation or at any point during your stay. These charters can include half or full day short trips, overnight tours, or extended tours of more than two days and up to a week or more depending on your needs while in the Islands.
For people planning their own boat charter in BVI, there are some very important points to keep in mind. Top charter companies will always provide you with the information you need and ensure they understand just what you expect from your charter before they have you sign any type of contract. To determine the best charter company for your needs make sure you ask about the following issues:
Rates and Additional Fees:
For most standard luxury boat charters, you will be charged a fee based on several factors. The number of days and nights as well as the actual fuel costs, based on travel distances, will be included in the price.
Additionally there will be the crew and the captain as well as any other specialty requirements you may have. Some tours and charters offer all-inclusive pricing. This will usually include the full cost for beverages including wine, beer and rum, soda and light snacks as well as pre-set meals on a menu for extended or overnight charters.
Last minute changes in your travel plans, or adding additional travel may result in additional charges even with an all-inclusive tour or charter. Planning your travel route with your charter company in advance is one simple and easy way to stay within your travel budget.
Make sure you have all the information about your tour in writing. This includes any upgrades or additional features or perks that the yacht company is offering. Verify the information and take the time to read the agreement before you place your deposit and sign the agreement for service.
Boats, Passenger Numbers and Creature Comforts:
When you are on a luxury boat charters, you want to be pampered and have all the features of home while at sea. Keep in mind the yacht, particularly for the longer charters, will become your hotel on the water, so you want the quarters to be luxurious, spacious and well-maintained, and you want to be able to relax and enjoy yourself based on your travel needs.
The best charters will provide everything you need in the way of water equipment, deck equipment and accommodations. You should ask about issues such as showers on board, dining areas, refrigerators and the galley (kitchen) area. You will also want to ensure that the living quarters have air conditioning for your comfort while you are traveling.
All of the yachts will have a maximum number of passengers that can be on board. Some companies have several boats and yachts to accommodate both small, private groups for anniversaries or honeymoon trips, as well as larger boats that are perfect for a family or several couples taking a trip together.
Final Thoughts
If you are on a budget, don’t be worried about sharing this with the charter company. The best companies will try to accommodate your budget and tailor a charter that will provide you with a wonderful experience and still stay within your spending limit. They may also recommend an off-season trip which can work to your advantage to lower costs or even extend your stay with the lower off-peak rates. Contact Ocean Bliss Charters for more information.
