Caribbean Sailing Costs by Destination
| Destination | 44ft Cat, Peak | Marina/Mooring | Overall Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| British Virgin Islands | $8,000-$12,000/wk | $25-$40/night | Expensive but premium |
| USVI (St Thomas/St John) | $6,500-$9,500/wk | $30-$60/night | Good value vs BVI |
| Grenadines | $5,500-$8,500/wk | $20-$35/night | Excellent value |
| Bahamas (Exumas) | $5,000-$8,000/wk | $0-$60/night | Good - mostly free anchorages |
| Martinique/Guadeloupe | $5,000-$7,500/wk | $20-$40/night | Best provisioning in Caribbean |
Caribbean Seasonal Price Swings
Caribbean charter pricing is the inverse of the Mediterranean: high season is December-April, low season is June-November. The swing is dramatic - the same catamaran can be 40-60% cheaper in low season. However, low season brings genuine hurricane risk June-October.
Hidden Costs to Budget For
- Cruising permits: Most Caribbean islands charge $75-$300 for a vessel entry permit.
- National park fees: BVI National Parks Trust charges $30/night per mooring. Tobago Cays charges a similar fee.
- Fuel: Diesel costs $4.50-$6.50/gallon across the Caribbean. Budget $300-$450/week for a catamaran.
- Out Island provisioning: Supermarkets in smaller cays are limited and expensive. Pre-provision in Nassau or Kingstown.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Caribbean island is cheapest for sailing?
The French Antilles (Martinique, Guadeloupe) offer some of the best value - excellent supermarkets, reasonable marina fees, and lower charter rates than the BVI or Bahamas.
What is the best Caribbean island for first-time bareboat sailors?
The BVI is the classic answer - flat water inside the Sir Francis Drake Channel, short passages, and excellent charter support. The Grenadines are also wonderful but passages can be choppier.