Sailing in the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI)

Sailing in the U.S. Virgin Islands – comprising St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix – offers year‑round tropical sailing under steady trade winds. Easterly trades of 10–20 knots prevail most days, providing excellent conditions for cruising.

Winter (December–March) is the busy season: winds may surge into the 15–30‑knot range (the “Christmas Winds” noted by sailors) but rain is minimal. Spring (Apr–June) brings warm settled weather and 10–15 knots winds from the east, with only an occasional shower.

From July through October the risk of tropical storms and hurricanes rises – winds often back off to 5–15 knots and squalls are more frequent.

November is a quiet shoulder month as trade winds pick up again (15–20 knots E–NE) and crowds are still light. Sea temperatures stay around 26–29 °C year‑round, and tidal ranges are small.

The islands enjoy gentle trade winds and protected bays under clear skies. Surprising bursts of squally rain are usually short-lived in summer, and chart updates always help avoid sudden weather changes.

Hurricanes are rare but possible (peak risk Aug–Oct), so most charterers avoid that period. In all seasons, sheltered anchorages behind the barrier islands keep seas calm, and coastal passages are well charted. Squalls can arise quickly, so keep good forecasts and be prepared to reef sails.

Regional Highlights

Each USVI island has a distinct character and sailing style. St. Thomas is the bustling hub (Charlotte Amalie, Red Hook) with deep harbours and many marinas (e.g. Yacht Haven Grande, Crown Bay, American Yacht Harbor). It offers full provisioning, marine services and plenty of nightlife ashore. Traffic can be heavy in main harbours, so a good berthing plan is needed.

By contrast, St. John (mostly national park) is peaceful and undeveloped. Visitors anchor out or tie to NPS mooring buoys in bays like Maho, Francis, Cinnamon and Hawksnest – all sandy, protected and swim-friendly. No docks are available (the park forbids mooring except on buoys), so bare-boat sailors must bring their own anchors and fenders. St. John’s lee also shelters the north side of St. Thomas from swell. St. Croix lies about 35 nm south; it’s a larger, flatter island with its own marinas (Green Cay/Christiansted, Salt River, etc.) and dual harbours in Christiansted and Frederiksted.

The sail to St. Croix is longer (often overnight), so skippering here suits sailors with open‑water experience. St. Croix rewards the effort with rich history (forts, plantations), excellent diving (Buck Island reef) and scenic anchorages like Teague Bay and Great Pond.

Skill level

The USVI are generally benign compared to the open Atlantic – sheltered channels and predictable winds make them accessible to intermediate sailors. Bare-boat charters are common, but beginners should consider a skippered or flotilla approach first. Novices will appreciate the calm anchorages of St. John and protected mooring fields, whereas St. Thomas’s crowded marinas and St. Croix’s long passages are better for experienced skippers. The well-charted waters and regular regattas attract sailors of all levels, but everyone should practise reef protection and local regulations.

St. Thomas

St. Thomas – the main entry point – has a well-equipped harbour and is the base for most charters. Charlotte Amalie’s long fuel piers and nearby marinas (Crown Bay, Yacht Haven) make provisioning easy. From here you can day-sail to nearby anchorages (e.g. Christmas Cove and Secret Harbour) or overnight to St. John.

St. John

St. John is all anchorage and mooring balls in clear blue bays. There are dozens of NPS moorings for 35–100′ boats (white buoys with coloured stripes) – stern lines through the buoy thimble and cleated bow lines are required for catamarans. A nightly park fee (currently $26) is collected at floating pay stations if you stay onboard overnight.

St. Croix

St. Croix – 30+ nm south – is more isolated. Christiansted Harbour (east) is deep and busy, with docks and anchorage, while Frederiksted (west) is small and quieter. Day-anchors and moorings exist in Chenay Bay, Teague Bay and offshore cays. St. Croix’s unique hazards include very deep drop-offs (the Puerto Rico Trench) nearshore, so anchor wisely and keep extra scope.

Marinas, Anchorage and Moorings

The USVI has modern marinas on St. Thomas and St. Croix, but very few in St. John. On St. Thomas, Yacht Haven Grande and Crown Bay Marina (Charlotte Amalie) plus American Yacht Harbor (Red Hook) cater to yachts, offering fuel, water, electricity, laundry, marine supplies and restaurants. St. Croix’s largest marina is Green Cay Marina (Christiansted); there are also smaller clubs/docks at Sunny Isle and Salt River Bay. In St. John and many smaller cays, no docks exist – boats anchor or use mooring buoys exclusively. The National Park Service provides hundreds of mooring buoys in St. John’s Virgin Islands National Park (Maho Bay, Caneel Bay, Rendezvous, etc.) and around nearby cays. Buoy moorings protect coral – anchoring is strictly prohibited over reef. Catamarans must rig dual stern lines through the buoy eye as instructed to avoid chafe.

Natural anchorages abound in each sheltered bay. Popular sandy anchor spots include Brewers/Coconuts Bay (St. Thomas), Lime Kiln Bay (St. John), Christmas Cove and Teague Bay (St. Croix). Mooring balls are free to use with the park fee, but be sure to anchor only on sand (anchors or chains must never touch coral). Outside park waters, anchoring is generally allowed except in marked no-anchor zones. Med-style (stern-to) mooring at a dock is rare – most charter yachts simply bow-anchor or tie to mooring buoys, using their anchor and/or stern lines as needed. In harbours, you’ll see both alongside berthing and bow-in on moorings.

Yacht Chartering in the USVI

Chartering is the usual way to sail the USVI. St. Thomas is the charter hub, with dozens of companies operating fleets of monohulls and catamarans (often based at Frenchtown or Crown Bay). Brands include Sunsail, The Moorings, Dream Yacht, Horizon, Waypoints and local firms. Typical bareboat yachts range from 36–45 ft monohulls (3–4 cabins) up to larger catamarans (45–50 ft, 4–5 cabins). Price ranges: a mid-size 3‑cabin monohull might rent for roughly $4,500–7,500 per week (off‑season vs high-season rates). A 4‑cab catamaran often starts ~ $7,000–9,000/week, with larger luxury cats $12,000+/week. Lower-season bargains can approach ~$1,800–2,500/week for small boats, while crewed catamarans often run $10–15K+/week plus expenses. Pay attention to mandatory extras: fuel is not usually included (you pay for diesel used), and there’s often a damage waiver (“collision/loss”) fee ($20–100/day). Typical charters include basic linens, safety gear, chart plotter and dinghy, but provisioning and charter insurance are extra.

A charter “turnaround” service usually checks you in/out with paperwork and a boat tour. Crewed charters (with skipper/chef) are available for monohulls and especially cats if you prefer no sailing responsibility. Skipper rates run ~$250–300 per day (plus meals/gratuity). Crewed catamarans often include the crew’s costs in the high charter price. Many charters offer add-ons like satellite comms, water toys or catering. Advance booking is wise, especially for Christmas–March. Popular companies include Sail Caribe, Barefoot Yacht Charters, St. Thomas Yacht Club Charters, as well as global brands (Moorings/Sunsail/Dream).

Qualifications and Regulations

Legally, the USVI (being U.S. territory) does not require a sailing license to bareboat, but charter firms do require proof of competence. In practice you’ll be asked for an ASA (American Sailing Association) or RYA certificate, or a comparable qualification (e.g. ICC/International Certificate). Many charterers insist on ASA 104 (Bareboat Cruising) or RYA Coastal Skipper for larger yachts, or a sailing resume demonstrating your sea time. Catamaran experience is particularly scrutinized (some advise beginners to start on a monohull). There’s no USCG license needed for charters under 12 m, but the boat will carry basic US safety gear and VHF radio. (Note: Unlike the Bahamas, no VHF operator’s license is required in U.S. waters.)

Customs/Immigration: All arriving yachts from outside the US must clear in by phone/online before entering USVI waters. If your charter starts in Puerto Rico or elsewhere outside the US-Virgin islands, you’ll check in with Customs in St. Thomas or St. Croix. Clearance is straightforward. Check-out (on departure) also requires a quick radio call. If you plan to visit the neighboring British Virgin Islands, passports are needed on both sides.

Anchoring/mooring rules: USVI National Parks (St. John NP and Buck Island) generally require use of the provided mooring buoys and forbid anchoring except in designated “sandy anchorages” (nps.gov) . There are floating self-pay stations for the park fee ($26/night, $13 for seniors) if overnighting inside park waters (nps.gov). Outside park waters, anchoring is allowed anywhere not marked off. Do not anchor on coral reef anywhere – charts show numerous shallow areas to avoid. Observe all posted speed limits and swim-area “no-wake” zones (typically 5 knots) near beaches and harbours. Garbage must be kept onboard and disposed of on land (do not throw plastics or sewage overboard).

Local Sailing Etiquette

Caribbean “seamanship etiquette” applies: greet fellow sailors (a wave or horn) and keep a courteous distance. When underway, mind the right-of-way rules (sails vs motor, starboard tack, etc.) and pass slowly near others.

In crowded anchorages or harbours use stern/anchor lights and a careful anchor watch. Avoid loud music or wakes after dark to respect resorts and other crews. On mooring buoys, approach slowly (turn into the wind if possible) and hand-line to the buoy – don’t snag someone else’s pennant.

When sharing a bay or bay/beach with fishermen or swimmers, steer wide and idle engines. And importantly, protect the reefs: always use moorings if available, and dive/anchor only in designated sandy spots. No anchoring is allowed in coral-protected zones – check charts and park guides. Finally, be socially respectful: the USVI blend U.S., Caribbean and African cultures, so shoreside dress casually but tidily, and accept local customs like paying at anchored bars by cash or local transit tokens.

Safety and Navigation

The USVI are relatively safe waters, but care is still needed. Reefs and shoals abound just offshore – never night-anchor far from shore, and use spotlights near coral heads. Currents are usually mild (0–1 knot) except through some channels (e.g. Gut of St. John, Red Hook channel) where tidal flows can speed up. Tidal range is under a foot, so anchoring depth change is negligible. Chartplotter and paper charts should be carried; make note of local hazards such as Johnson’s Reef (north shore St. John) and the Caneel Bay shallow reef. A good rule is “look below before you throw”: ensure clear bottom before dropping anchor.

Weather is stable, but you should still check forecasts daily (apps like PredictWind or NOAA are recommended). Squalls can roll through from the east; brief heavy rain is common. If a squall or storm approaches, reduce sail early and head for shelter – many coves offer space to heave‑to. Remember that westbound passages (St. Thomas → St. Croix) are slightly windier and may roll, whereas eastbound is typically upwind.

Medical facilities are available in St. Thomas (major hospitals) and St. Croix; medevac by boat or helicopter is possible in remote areas but plan to carry a basic first-aid kit. Always carry sufficient fresh water (some anchorages have no dock water), and be mindful of strong sun and heat. Finally, have a plan for hurricane season: most charters will not operate in late August/September, but if there is threat, know the closest safe harbor.

FAQ

• Q: When is the best time to sail the USVI?
  A: Peak season is roughly Dec–Apr when tradewinds are steady (15–20 knots) and rain is lowest. Avoid June–Nov if possible because of tropical storm risk. April–May and November are “shoulder” months with pleasant weather, fewer boats and still good winds.
• Q: Do I need a sailing license?
  A: U.S. law does not mandate a specific certificate for private bareboat charters, but most companies require proof of skill. An ASA 104 (Bareboat) or RYA Coastal/Yachtmaster qualification is typically needed, along with a sailing resume. In practice, charterers treat the USVI like the Caribbean: certified or experienced skippers only.
• Q: Monohull or catamaran?
  A: Both are available. Cats offer shallow draft (good for quiet bays), spacious decks and living areas, and are very stable for groups. Monohulls (sloops) are usually cheaper, tack closer to wind, and can be easier to anchor stern‑to if a dock is available. Beginners often find cats more comfortable, but handling a larger cat can be challenging. If unsure, take a catamaran training course or try a mono first.
• Q: How do I pay for moorings and fuel?
  A: Fuel and generator diesel are extra – usually paid on return (meters are run). Mooring ball fees in St. John/St. Croix parks are a per-night self-service payment ($26/night). Most private marinas charge per foot per night (~$2–3/ft) for dockage, or have fixed overnight rates, and you’ll pay for water/electric hookups. Always save receipts and follow posted instructions (park mooring payments are by envelope at the buoy).
• Q: What experience level is required?
  A: Intermediate. The USVI’s short passages, modest tides and good visibility make them a great learning ground, but you should be competent with basic navigation and anchoring. First-time charterers should consider skippered or co-skippered trips. Even experienced cruisers should review reef-hazard charts and local rules before exploring.
• Q: Any local customs or laws I should know?
  A: Respect posted zones and park regulations (no anchoring on reefs, no fishing in protected areas). The official language is English and US dollar is used. The locals are friendly – tipping a dockworker or mate who helps you alongside is common practice. Always carry photo ID (a passport or DMV license for customs). Smoking is banned in many public places, and always clean up any plastic or debris.
• Q: What if weather deteriorates?
  A: Have an alternate plan. Most bays and marinas offer good shelter; for example, Francis Bay (St. John) and Teague Bay (St. Croix) are well protected. If a storm is forecast, tie down sails, double-up anchors/lines, and monitor updates. The US Coast Guard (Marine Band VHF 16) can assist in emergencies.
• Q: Can I sail to the British Virgins or Puerto Rico?
  A: Yes – but remember international rules. The USVI are adjacent to the BVI (at the eastern tip of St. John), so day trips there are popular. You must clear out of US Customs/Immigration and clear into the BVI (and vice versa) when crossing. Puerto Rico is west of St. Croix (another country call); similarly, check in/out. Plan extra time for immigration paperwork on those journeys.

Sources

• Yacht Warriors – “US Virgin Islands Cruising Conditions” (sailing seasons and winds) yachtwarriors.comyachtwarriors.com
• The Hills St. John (David Adams) – “Sailing Guide to the USVI Waters” (trade winds, seasons, regional highlights) thehillsstjohn.comthehillsstjohn.com
• St. Thomas Sailing Guide – “Ultimate Guide to USVI Sailing” (best months, license/certification) yacht4less.comyacht4less.com
• Virgin Islands National Park (NPS) – “Boating and Mooring Information” (mooring rules, fees, anchor zones) nps.govnps.gov
• Vacation VI/VI Sailing – “Charter Rates – Waypoints Yacht Charters” (pricing examples) virginislandsailing.com
• 12knots Yacht Charter – “USVI Yacht Charter & Boat Rental 2025” (market rates) 12knots.com
• American Sailing Association (ASA) – Bareboat Charter FAQs (licensing norms in Caribbean) boatbookings.com
• NOAA/NPS Publications – Tide/current data and coral-protection guidelines (for safety)