Rent a boat in Tortola with or without a skipper

Boat rentals in Tortola, the British Virgin Islands

Tortola, situated in the Caribbean, is the largest of the British Virgin Islands and an irresistible destination calling out to you. This stunning island, located approximately 60 miles (100km) east of Puerto Rico, is an ideal location to rent a sailing boat and explore its exquisite surroundings.

With its incredible vistas, white-sand beaches, and its distinctive coral reefs, what’s not to love?

Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-timer, renting a boat in Tortola offers you an adventure of a lifetime. You can embark on a journey to explore Tortola's secluded bays, pristine beaches, and captivating culture at your own pace. With the freedom and flexibility to explore the island's hidden gems, a boat rental in Tortola with Nautal guarantees an unforgettable experience.

How much does it cost to rent a boat in Tortola?

The cost of a rental in Tortola will depend on a few factors such as the time of year, the number of guests, and the size and type of vessel you choose. See below some of our prices per boat type:

Catamaran

Our prices can range between €1,038/day and €2,450/day.

What is included in the cost?

The price includes the usage of your chosen boat for the duration of your sailing trip. The cost can differ from boat to boat, depending on additional and extras included. A skipper and/or crewed yacht is usually extra. All necessary safety equipment is included to ensure a safe and worry-free experience!

What are the mooring fees?

The mooring fees in Tortola vary depending on the location and duration of your stay. In general, the fees for overnight mooring in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) are charged by the National Parks Trust and are based on the size of your vessel.

For a yacht charter in Tortola, the prices can range from €32 - €50 per night, depending on the length of your rental.

All-aboard! Should I rent with or without a skipper?

Nautal offers an extensive selection of boat rentals in Tortola, ranging from bareboats to vessels with a skipper.

Skippers are experts in navigating the waters! They will handle tasks like sailing, docking, and anchoring the vessel for you. This allows you to relax and fully enjoy your vacation while basking in the sun on the deck. One of the most significant benefits of having a skipper is their local expertise. Since they are usually natives of Tortola, they know the area like the back of their hand. They could lead you to hidden gems that you might not find in any travel guide!

Whether you're an experienced sailor or a first-timer, consider renting a boat with a skipper to make the most of your time in Tortola.

What to do and see during my Tortola boat rental?

There are a wide variety of activities to choose from during your charter in Tortola, both on and off shore! Have a look at some of our recommendations:

• Heavenly beaches: Tortola is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean, including Cane Garden Bay, Long Bay Beach, and Brewer’s Bay. Relax on the velvety soft sand, swim in the azure waters, and soak up the sun.
• Secluded Smuggler’s Cove: This is a gem that deserves its own section! To get to this piece of paradise, you need to follow a winding dirt road. Once there, you will see the turquoise waters that meet swirling white sands. Discover the diverse sea life here!
• Hiking Mecca - Tortola's rugged terrain and lush forests offer plenty of opportunities for hiking. The Sage Mountain National Park is home to the highest peak in the BVI and offers postcard perfect views of the island.
• Check out the culture: The Wall Mural of Fahie Hill is a local work of art that depicts a variety of cultural scenes. It was painted by a local artist who successfully turned a 10-feet-high, 60-feet-wide wall into a masterpiece showing how the people of the island really live.
• Water Sports - From snorkeling and diving to paddle boarding and surfing, Tortola offers a wide range of water sports activities. Explore the area from a different perspective when you charter a yacht in Tortola.

Where to sail with a Tortola boat rental?

A boat charter in Tortola is a sailor’s delight due to its location! Here are some of our recommendations:

• Virgin Gorda: This is a popular sailing destination, and it's known for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unique rock formations, such as the Baths. Located only 30 minutes from Tortola, this is a must-see! The Baths are a number of large granite boulders formed by years of erosion.
• Jost Van Dyke: This is another popular destination for sailors, and it's famous for its beach bars, including the famous Soggy Dollar Bar. Jost Van Dyke is also known for its unspoiled beauty and laid-back atmosphere.
• Anegada: This is a low-lying coral island located to the northeast of Tortola, and it's known for its stunning beaches and world-class snorkeling and diving. Anegada is a popular destination for sailors, but it's important to note that the waters around the island can be tricky to navigate. It features flamingos, rare flora and rock iguanas.

When is the best time to set sail in Tortola?

The best time to rent a boat in Tortola depends on the type of sailing vacation you are seeking! Regaled for their line of sight navigation, the BVIs have become a mecca for sailors.

We have highlighted the sailing conditions below:

• Wind: The trade winds in Tortola typically blow from the northeast at around 10 to 20 knots, with occasional gusts of up to 25 knots. The winds are usually strongest in the winter months (December to February) and weakest in the summer months (June to August).
• Seas: The seas around Tortola are generally calm, with waves ranging from 1 to 3 feet. However, there can be some larger swells and waves in certain areas, particularly in the open waters to the north and east of the island.
• Hurricane Season: The official hurricane season falls between June and November.

Which are the most popular ports in Tortola?

Road Town: Road Town is the capital of the British Virgin Islands and the largest city on Tortola. It's home to several marinas and ports, including the Road Town Port, which is the main cruise ship terminal in the British Virgin Islands. Road Town is a popular destination for sailors, with several restaurants, bars, and shops within walking distance of the marinas.

Soper's Hole: Soper's Hole is a picturesque marina located on the west end of Tortola. It's a popular destination for sailors, with several restaurants, shops, and a market within walking distance of the marina. Soper's Hole is also the starting point for many sailing trips to nearby islands, such as Jost Van Dyke and Norman Island.

Which type of boat is best to charter a boat in Tortola?

The type of boat that you choose for your Tortola boat rental can depend on a number of factors! It’s important to consider how long you will actually be in the water during your boat hire.

For longer yacht charters, we would recommend boats such as yachts or catamarans. These are more spacious and will have a wider range of amenities. For day long trips, RIBs, motorboats and Jet Skis will take you where you need to be.

For a more authentic sailing experience, sailboats are the perfect choice. These boats will sway in the wind which is useful to keep in mind if you are prone to seasickness.

Check out the capacity of our vessels below:

Catamaran

Our Catamarans accommodate from 8 - 14 guests and include from 4 - 8 cabins.

How to get to Tortola

Flight:

You can't directly fly into Tortola but it is possible to fly into San Juan or Puerto Rico then hop onto a connecting flight directly into Tortula’s Beef Island Airport. From there you can hire a taxi which will take you to the charter base in Road Town.

Flight & Ferry:

Fly into St. Thomas airport (STT) in the U.S. Virgin Islands, then take a 10-minute taxi to Charlotte Amalie ferry dock. From there, you’ll hop on the Road Town Fast Ferry and enjoy a 1-hour scenic ride over to Road Town, Tortola.

Frequently Asked Questions about Tortola

How much does it cost to rent a boat during the high and low seasons in Tortola?

The average daily cost of renting a boat in Tortola is approximately €1,372 during the high season and about €926 during the low season.

What is the daily cost of a skipper in Tortola?

The cost of a skipper varies depending on the destination and the owner of the boat. In Tortola, the average price for a skipper is about €255 per day.

What are the top boat manufacturers in Tortola?

The top boat manufacturers in Tortola are Hanse and Jeanneau.

How many cabins are there on a boat in Tortola?

Boats in Tortola usually have an average of 6 cabins. Larger groups can reserve boats with up to 8 cabins.

What types of boats are available to rent in Tortola?

In Tortola, you can rent options such as Motor Yacht, Catamaran, or Sailboat.

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