We’ve been bareboat chartering for the last 35 years. Since our first time, boats and the charter companies have evolved and grown in numbers making the choices and process much more efficient. Local service and product providers have also evolved to help serve charter guests. There’s now the option of pre-ordering all the groceries and drinks and having them delivered onboard prior to departure. Charter companies now also introduce you properly to your well-equipped charter boat and perform very informative chart briefings—most charter companies do an excellent job.
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I would add to pick up your own groceries and beverages. One year we were ready to head out but hade to wait an hour for our very late food delivery. Island time!
This is discussed in Part 3, coming up soon
Consider a flight to Tortola. The flight is more expensive, but you will need to add a day to the trip to take the ferry from US Virgins.
We usually do our provisioning at a local grocery store. Like at home, you get to choose the food based on what looks fresh and interesting. On Tortola, there are two large stores walkable from the Moorings marina.
When choosing a charter company, consider the age and condition of the boat. Like your boat at home, things break. Only this time your are dependent on the charter company for repairs. The charter company must be able and willing to send a repair crew promptly.
Don’t count on leaving early on the first day. Take the time to go over everything on the boat so that you are confident you know operate everything. The systems on big cats can be complex. That includes the dinghy and its motor. Check that the water and fuel tanks are actually full.