Exploring the Virgin Islands by Megayacht this Winter

By Editorial Team 26 August 2014

With a busy summer Mediterranean charter season now winding up, we take a look towards the premiere mega yacht destinations worth visiting this winter – first up the beautiful Virgin Islands.

The scattering of emerald green isles that make up the Virgin Islands have long been a yachtsman’s haven and continue to appeal to the world’s travelling elite. This winter, an assortment of superyachts in all shapes, styles and sizes will be making their way to these blissful cruising grounds including some of the markets most impressive charter yachts.

Vessels such as the highly anticipated 95m/312ft Lurssen motor yacht KISMET (aka Kismet 2) which will be making her charter debut this season, the 85m/279ft motor yacht SOLANDGE (read our in-depth review) and the 86m/283ft Superyacht AIR offer the highest levels of luxury and service which combined with these spectacular Caribbean islands makes for the ultimate yachting vacation.

Man water skiing near Virgin Islands beach

Young woman looking through binoculars on beach, St. John, US Virgin Islands, USA

The archipelago of more than 60 idyllic islands and islets are divided between the cosmopolitan US Virgin Islands and the neighbouring and relatively unspoilt British Virgin Islands. The US Virgin Islands are known for their buzzing social scene and glamorous coastlines and are situated just a short flight from the United States. The main islands of St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix are a hive of superyacht activity throughout the year, but are most popular as offering an idyllic winter escape amongst breath taking beaches, beautiful harbours and cosmopolitan flair.

View of famous Trunk Bay beach in St. John, US Virgin Islands

With a number of multi-cultural influences evident in this cluster of islands, ranging from Dutch-style architecture to French-inspired design, the US Virgin islands hold a rich history alongside their Caribbean paradise settings. They are also free ports, allowing guests to indulge in some tax-free designer shopping. Head Yacht Haven Grande for high-end boutiques such as Louis Vuitton and Bulgari, just a stone’s throw from the pier; downtown Charlotte Amalie, meanwhile, is best for Caribbean artefacts.

Charter guest snorkelling in the warm waters at St. Croix Island in US Virgin Islands

Pirate sculpture at the tropical island in Caribbean

View of luxury yachts in marina and harbor in the tropical island of St. Thomas, USVI

The British Virgin Islands meanwhile exude a low-key ambiance and get-away-from-it-all feel. Throughout the islands, coral reefs and stunning beaches provide every opportunity for all manner of watersports, from snorkelling and sea kayaking to wreck diving and sports fishing.

Furthermore, the diversity of the volcanic landscapes on the islands create the perfect environment to get the adrenaline pumping with some ashore activities such as hiking, horse riding on the beach or a round of golf to a backdrop of pristine coastline and Caribbean waters. The strong identity and rich histroy of the Virgin Islands also mean that a a scattering of monuments, statues and musems can be enjoyed by those looking for some cultural indulgence.

Contact your preferred charter broker for more information about booking a luxury yacht charter in the Virgin Islands this winter.