Can You Start Your BVI Charter in the USVI?
With direct flights into St. Thomas and stunning anchorages right off the coast, it’s no surprise many travelers want to start their crewed yacht charter in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) and sail into the British Virgin Islands (BVI). But while this may sound convenient in theory, the reality has become increasingly complicated—and in many cases, less than ideal.
Before you book your charter with a USVI pickup, there are some important legal, logistical, and financial factors to consider.
what's the issue?
Simply put, BVI laws are getting stricter when it comes to charter yachts picking up guests outside of their waters. Most crewed yachts that operate in the BVI are licensed to start and end charters within the BVI only.
There are a handful of yachts that hold special licensing to legally pick up in the USVI and cross into BVI waters—but those options are limited, and the list seems to shrink each year due to shifting policies and enforcement.
Even if a yacht is legally allowed to pick up in the USVI today, regulations can change without much warning. This means:
Your charter could suddenly be forced to start in the BVI instead
You’d need to adjust your travel plans and get to the BVI by ferry or private water taxi
Additional costs and delays could be involved
What about flying into St. Thomas, usvi?
There’s no denying that St. Thomas (STT) is easier to reach from the U.S. mainland than Tortola. There are more flight options, you don’t need a passport to arrive, and you’ll be in Caribbean paradise as soon as you land.
But easy flights don’t necessarily mean a smooth charter start.
Because of the limited number of boats legally permitted to pick up in the USVI—and the increasing risk of regulatory changes—it’s becoming harder to guarantee a seamless experience. What starts as a convenient plan can quickly turn into a travel headache if the laws shift before your charter.
the reliable option: Starting in tortola, BVi
If you want peace of mind and the full BVI charter experience without border-crossing complications, starting your trip in Tortola is the safest bet.
You’ll clear customs and immigration as soon as you land at the airport (EIS)
Your yacht will be waiting at a nearby marina, ready to go
You’ll be able to sail freely through all of the BVI, without restriction
While connecting to Tortola might take a bit more coordination (usually via San Juan or a ferry from St. Thomas), it’s worth it for the simplicity and stability it offers once you arrive.
if you do start in the usvi
If you’re set on starting in St. Thomas, here’s what to expect:
Your yacht will need to stop and clear into the BVI, usually at West End or Jost Van Dyke on the first or second day of charter.
You’ll need a valid passport and possibly pay extra customs/cruising fees
And if laws change? You’ll be required to travel to the BVI yourself to meet the yacht
Your charter broker will always present you with yachts that are legally cleared to operate in the region, explain the risks up front, and help you plan a backup route if needed. But if you’re looking for a stress-free charter from day one, Tortola is the way to go.
The option to start a yacht charter in the USVI and sail into the BVI is still technically possible—but it’s no longer as straightforward or reliable as it once was. Recent and ongoing changes in regulations have made it harder for most yachts to legally offer this route, and there’s always the chance of last-minute changes that impact your travel.
For the smoothest experience with the fewest surprises, I strongly recommend flying into Tortola and beginning your charter in the heart of the BVI. It’s simpler, legally secure, and ensures your vacation starts the moment you step off the plane.
Got questions or want help finding the right yacht and routing for your trip? I’m here to help—just reach out and let’s plan something amazing.
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