Chartering in the B.V.I.'s

[blackdogsailing]

We are planning on running crewed yacht charters on our boat when we arrive next year. We used to run other peoples yachts 15-20 years ago but I suspect the rules might have changed since then ! Anyone know what the current rules are ? The boat is fully MCA coded. Thanks.
Chris

 

[KellysEye]

All you need to know is here: http://bvicrewedyachts.com/requirements.php

 

[blackdogsailing]

All you need to know is here: /QUOTE]

Perfect thank you ! I see the charter show has moved to Nanny Cay, much nicer than Roadtown !
Chris

 

[TQA]

The fess are reasonable

Parks Permit
There is a charge for using the moorings in the National Parks. $6/day, $50/week or $150 for 1 year.

Private Vessels
Private boats are automatically given up to 30 days to cruise around the BVI. A 30 day cruising fee is charged which is based on tonnage (with a maximum of $55).

After 1 month, there is a Temporary Importation fee of $200. This covers the yacht for 1 year.

For more information call Customs on (284) 494-3475.

Charter Vessels
A cruising permit is required for all charter yachts cruising in the British Virgin Islands.
Seasonal Rates (December 1 - April 30): All recorded charter boats - $2.00 per person per day. All non-recorded charter boats - $4.00 per person per day.
Out-of-Season Rates (May 1 - November 30): All recorded charter boats - $0.75 per person per day. All non-recorded charter boats - $4.00 per person per day.

Visiting crewed charter boats also have to pay a departure tax of US$4 per person. Charter licence annual fee from $400 (under 40 ft (12 m)) to $800 (over 50 ft (15 m).

Overtime must be paid for customs clearance outside 0830-1630 Monday to Friday, 0830-1230 Saturdays and on public holidays.

Last updated January 2014.

However there is a major 'gotcha' and that is getting a work permit or visa extensions. Both are possible but but very difficult and bureaucratic.

I know of quite a few people doing skippered charters in the Caribbean and none of them are based in the BVI. One reason is you are limiting yourself on your customer base. Flying to the BVI is a PITA from many countries. Antigua, St Lucia and Grenada are better.

 

[Jeannius]

We are planning on running crewed yacht charters on our boat when we arrive next year. We used to run other peoples yachts 15-20 years ago but I suspect the rules might have changed since then ! Anyone know what the current rules are ? The boat is fully MCA coded. Thanks.
Chris

Best start the process now. Getting the permits takes forever and has to be done BEFORE you get to the BVI. All sorts of medical tests have to be taken and every now and again they stop giving new permits.