St. Thomas (USVI)

St. Thomas Yacht Charter

Inspiring Itineraries

What is the best route to sail St Thomas and the USVI?

The route you choose to sail in St Thomas may differ depending on any excursions you have planned, which islands you’d like to visit and who you’re traveling with. What we do know is, no matter which route you sail, your St Thomas boat charter will be a magical experience that will create picture-perfect memories to cherish.

If you choose to follow one of our St Thomas sailing itineraries, you will explore the sensational Christmas Cove and snorkel among the stingrays, relax on the sandy beaches of Caneel Bay and visit Druif Bay where you will have the unique opportunity to discover its historic fort and learn more about the history of the USVI.

How easy is it to island hop in the USVI?

Much like the British Virgin Islands, the USVI is home to three main islands, all of which are easy to travel between on your yacht. Alongside the main islands, a St Thomas sailing vacation also gives you the opportunity to sail to smaller, nearby islands and discover the treasures of these secluded anchorages. Whether you’re challenging yourself on a bareboat charter in St Thomas, or hiring a skipper to navigate the passages around the USVI, there are plenty of incredible islands to discover.

How many days in St Thomas is enough?

At The Moorings, we pride ourselves on providing bespoke sailing vacations in St Thomas, tailored to your exact requirements. From the type of yacht to the duration of your St Thomas catamaran charter, it is completely your choice.

A 7-day boat charter in St Thomas is the perfect amount of time to experience the magic of the turquoise waters and experience the islands around the USVI in all their glory. However, depending on how much exploring and relaxing you plan on doing whilst in St Thomas, you may choose to extend your charter for longer than a week. 

We have 7-day and 10-day St Thomas itineraries that you can follow, or use as inspiration to create your own itinerary.

What are the best things to do in St Thomas?
  • Sail to St John and uncover the treasures of Leinster Bay, where you will find some of the best snorkeling opportunities in the whole of the USVI, and BVI.
  • Stop by at Magens Beach where you can lie out on the golden sands or snorkel for the day.
  • Go on a turtle swimming excursion aboard Fury, from Yacht Haven Grande. 
  • Take a Fishing Charter to the famous North Drop.*
  • Hop on the Sky Ride Gondola to Paradise Point and enjoy beautiful sunset drinks. 
  • Walk around the historic district of Charlotte Amalie and immerse yourself into St Thomas’ culture.

*Fishing – If you want to spend your days fishing and exploring the open waters of St Thomas, you should be aware that the Closed Season schedule in the Virgin Islands is as follows. During this time no person shall catch, sell, offer for sale or buy:

  • Margate: January 1 – March 31
  • Red Hind: January 1 – March 31
  • Nassau Grouper: March 1 – May 31
  • Turtles: April 1 – November 30
  • Lobster: July 31 – October 31
  • Conch: August 15 – October 31
  • Whelk: August 15 – October 31

If you have any questions about fishing in St Thomas, or about our St Thomas itineraries, get in touch with us today.

What is the weather like in St Thomas?

Known for having a ‘tropical savanna’ climate, St Thomas enjoys sunny, year-round warm temperatures ranging between 75°F and 88°F. There is higher rainfall in August-December than any other time of the year, averaging 107-125mm in these months.

During the Winter months (November to January) the wind is from the northeast at 15-20 knots. The Christmas winds can produce 25-30 knots for several days at a time. In February, the winds move to the east and by June it changes to the southeast at 10-15 knots. In September and October, the trade winds are at their weakest and the weather can be less settled. By November the high pressure system around Bermuda starts to stabilize and 15-20 knot breezes become the norm.

Charterers can obtain the weather situation at any time by listening to the maritime weather forecasts. Weather updates are given hourly during severe weather.

  • ZBVI 780 kHz AM – 8:00am daily and up-date every hour on the ½ hour
  • V.H.F. WX 03 – (not available in all areas)
  • WVWI 1000 Khz AM – 7:55 am daily
  • FM99 99.5 Mhz AM – 7:55 am daily
  • WOSO 1030 Khz AM – every hour daily
  • Weather Fax – Call 284-496-6900
When is the best time to sail in St Thomas?

Much like the BVI, Belize and other Caribbean destinations, the dry season in St Thomas runs from December-April, making it the best time to book your sailing vacation. St Thomas truly couldn’t be a more perfect destination for a Winter getaway when you’re looking to escape the wet weather and January blues.

Looking for a Summer sailing vacation? Take a look at our Mediterranean charters, including Italy, Greece and Croatia.

What are the tides like in St Thomas?

Much like the BVI, the USVI experiences a very small tidal range, making it a wonderful location for a sailing charter. You may experience a tidal range of between 11-23 inches, which includes variations due to any dominant winds or atmospheric pressure.

Do you want to learn more about the cruising conditions in the USVI or what to expect on a boat charter in St Thomas? Contact us today and a member of our team will be happy to help.

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What Guests are Saying

Our Captain and 1st mate were AMAZING! They took great care of us, really listened to what we wanted to do and experience. The food was seriously restaurant quality!!! Highly recommend Brian & Melody.

Laura Geuther St Thomas

Brian and Melody we so kind and attentive to all our needs

Barbara Coyle St Thomas

The crew was fantastic. They were fun, meshed well with our group, and the food was amazing. Also, starting the BVI cruise in St. Thomas was KEY to success. Not having to get on a ferry or go through airport customs was a prime reason for picking this charter

John Christenbury St Thomas

Everything was terrific! The boat, the arrival, the coordination and the captain that accompanied us ( Zak) for a few days.

Francisco Marin St Thomas

Brian and Jenn were great hosts. They were personable and professional. Nothing was too much to ask. They found us great snorkel spots and the food was awesome! We had a birthday on board and they went the extra step to make it special in every way possible. BEST VACATION YET ! THANK YOU !

Nicola Patterson St Thomas

Excellent customer service from booking experience to check in and out at base. Boat and chart briefing were outstanding as well. Boat was incredible. St Thomas base is wonderful with excellent amenities and very convenient to fly into from the US.

Edward Calvert St Thomas

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