Yacht Charter in Antigua and Barbuda | Luxury Yacht Rentals

Kick off with a crewed motor yacht that prioritizes comfort, safety, and flexible itineraries. The captain and crew provide a curated menu, water toys, and round-the-clock service, so you can focus on the views and the company of friends. Many luxury motor yachts use steel hulls for durability in breeze and night navigation.

Plan short daily legs down the leeward coast, with 3–5 hour hops between anchorages, so you maximize sheltered bays. Each night on deck becomes a memory. Instead of crowded excursions, choose a private yacht.

Arrive at the waterfront of Nelson's Dockyard or drift into a protected lagoon on Barbuda, where the water stays clear and the shorelines remain tranquil. Onboard you can taste island flavors and enjoy a drink as the sun sinks.

On the days you anchor, snorkeling yields face-to-face views of vibrant reef life just offshore. Try Cades Reef and Deep Bay near Antigua, then switch to Barbuda’s calmer coves and the vast Codrington Lagoon Protected Area where wildlife gathers along the shore.

Barbuda offers wildlife encounters year-round: dolphins cruising along the leeward side, sea turtles feeding near lagoons, and colonies of seabirds around the Frigate Bird Sanctuary. The crew can tailor daily routes to ensure you land in the best protected coves at sunset.

In Antigua’s harbors, the waterfront dining scene delivers a taste of local flavors: jerk-spice grilled fish, lime-scented ceviche, and freshly caught lobster. Onboard you can board the tender for a private shore dinner, while friends share stories and admire the view.

From this season onward, booking six to eight months ahead pays off, especially for peak months December through March when demand rises. In the past years the charter market has grown, but a tailored itinerary remains the best way to secure prime moorings and guides. This approach keeps you on schedule.

Pack reef-safe sunscreen, light layers, and a good water bottle. Your crew provide towels, but bring your own if you dislike packing. When you want to anchor nearer the leeward clubs, the captain can board a return tender to the beach for a private shore dinner, avoiding crowds on the main pier.

With a private yacht you stay on the waterfront for every sunset, enjoy taste of local cuisine, and relish a level of privacy that suits friends or family. This coastline around Antigua and Barbuda offers a compact playground of sheltered bays, coral gardens, steady winds, and long nights under a starry sky.

Yacht Charter in Antigua and Barbuda: Luxury Yacht Rentals and Top Destinations

Begin your voyage with a 5-day crewed charter aboard a Sanlorenzo yacht, anchored in leeward coves away from crowds, for small, pure interiors and unobstructed sight of the horizon; every moment on deck becomes an indulgence with a lobster-forward menu and waterfront views, while the crew crafts an alternative itinerary that becomes lasting memories and escape.

These moments become lasting memories. The vessel showcases jachtbouw craftsmanship, with refined interiors designed for comfort and a clear line of sight to the sea, supporting an intimate, relaxed experience at each stop.

• Antigua coastlines – Nelson's Dockyard, Falmouth Harbour, and English Harbour provide safe, sheltered spots for anchoring away from busy marinas. From there you sail to Green Island and Mamora Bay, where the heights of coastal cliffs frame dramatic views. Each stop offers opportunities to arrive by tender, explore underwater life, and enjoy a picnic on a secluded beach as the day fades.
• Barbuda – Pink Sands Beach on Barbuda's west coast presents an alternative escape from typical Caribbean hubs. The frigate birds circumnavigate Codrington Lagoon while you snorkel the lagoon's shoreline, then share a lobster feast and a drink on a quiet deck. The shores here remain filled with space to roam and to relax with a private menu tailored to your group.
• Onboard rhythm – the yacht's jachtbouw-crafted interiors are small and refined, with ample deck space for open-air dining. You can plan longer hops between spots, staying anchored near uninhabited coves or stepping ashore at serene resorts for a sunset stroll or a quick dip, all while the crew handles the anchor, fuel checks, and fresh-catch seafood.

1. Day 1: Antigua start – anchor near Nelson's Dockyard, enjoy a guided snorkel along a reef, then swap stories over a sunset drink and a light picnic aboard the ship.
2. Day 2: Leeward coast to Green Island – sail along calm seas, pause for shore visits at a waterfront site, and sample a curated menu that blends Caribbean flavors with Mediterranean technique.
3. Day 3: Barbuda exploration – set course to Pink Sands Beach, stroll the powdery shore, and arrange a lobster feast on a remote cove while frigate birds wheel overhead.
4. Day 4: Codrington Lagoon and Crab Island – guided birdlife viewing, shallow-water snorkeling, and a dessert-laden onboard indulgence before a final anchor near a resort quay.
5. Day 5: Antigua west coast return – arrive at a sheltered harbour, enjoy a farewell picnic on deck, and depart with long-lasting memories of clear sight, pristine water, and extraordinary views.

To tailor your experience, work with a crewed charter that can adjust the pace, offer a longer stay at a favorite spot, and deliver a specific menu–perhaps a lobster-focused dinner, a picnic ready to port, and a coffee-pipe aroma onboard to finish the day. Antigua and Barbuda's private yachting scene brings a refined escape, accessible from a waterfront base with direct access to resorts, small coves, and pristine shorelines.

Premium Luxury Yacht Charter in Antigua and Barbuda: Practical Guide

Begin with a private, 5-day charter along Antigua and Barbuda’s south coast on a famous yacht to secure maximum exclusivity and privacy.

Inquire early with your broker to lock in flexible dining options and a crew that respects your pace. Whether you travel solo, as a couple, or with family, a private charter allows you to tailor routes, snorkel sites, and daily rhythm, ensuring an unforgettable balance of exploration and leisure.

1. Day 1: Depart from a premier harbor, greet your crew, and anchor in a sheltered cove among nearby islets. Enjoy a sunset sail, followed by a dinner on deck under calm night skies.
2. Day 2: Travel along the south coast to petratara, a secluded stop famed for clear water and green reefs. Snorkel, paddle, and savor a chef-prepared lunch on board; relax at anchor in the afternoon.
3. Day 3: Move to lesser-known coves and a gulf-like inlet that offers utter privacy. Some travelers opt for a quiet beach walk or a private picnic ashore.
4. Day 4: Leisurely day on board with a spa menu and water toys. Inquire about sustainable amenities and local suppliers to support green practices; anchor near a verdant shore for night-time stars.
5. Day 5: Return to port, arrive with unforgettable memories. Quick transfer options help you connect to the next destination, or arrange a private after-cruise excursion with a travelers’ market visit.

Practical tips for a smooth voyage:

• Plan for flexible start times to catch favorable winds and avoid peak crowds on the south coast.
• Discuss privacy expectations with the captain, including whether you prefer solitude or social hours, and where to anchor.
• Ask about in-water activities and the layout of the tender; some yachts carry kayaks and stand-up paddleboards for leisurely exploration of nearby coves.
• Check provisioning options; eggs and local produce can be arranged for breakfast on deck with a sea breeze.
• Inquire about wildlife and shoreline notes–ossum sightings near mangrove margins can be a fun surprise.

3–7 Night Itinerary Options for a Classic Antigua and Barbuda Charter

Begin with a 5-night Antigua and Barbuda charter aboard a sanlorenzo, at a laid-back tempo that blends tranquil shallows with lively harbours, greeted by a friendly crew.

Option 1 – 3 nights: Depart Nelson's Dockyard aboard a sanlorenzo, motor toward a sheltered anchor near Prickly Pear Cays for a morning snorkel in clear shallows. A picnic on deck features a crisp salad while pale water glides by. The staff greet you with a warm welcome and the evening mood turns alive as lanterns glow over the deck. Day two heads to Barbuda's calm coves where wildlife often gathers; swim, snorkel, or simply relax. Return to Antigua's harbours on day three, finishing with a sunset drink and a sense of laid-back rhythm.

Option 2 – 4 nights: Set sail from Nelson's Dockyard toward a tranquil harbour along Antigua's south coast for a first anchor. The deck picnic includes salad, fruit, and cold drinks as the pale horizon deepens. The staff ensure a smooth, friendly welcome ashore, and evening on board feels alive with lantern light. Day 2 travels to Barbuda for Codrington Lagoon wildlife watching and a visit to Pink Sand Beach; return for a second night at a quiet Antigua harbour.

Option 3 – 5 nights: A fuller loop includes Carlisle Bay for reef snorkeling, Green Island for a calm afternoon, and a beach stop near Barbuda's Pink Sand Beach. A shaded palm bank hosts a picnic with fresh salad, while the crew arranges a guided wildlife moment in shallow water. Evening sails deliver breathtaking views of the coastline and a tranquil atmosphere.

Option 4 – 6 nights: Extend to Redonda's dramatic cliffs and back to Barbuda's coves. Include a private sandbank lunch and a longer stop at Green Island. The crew offers a flexible schedule to catch a soft sunset in harbour, followed by an on-deck dinner under the stars. Quiet mornings at calm shallows reveal small reef life and a sense of tranquility.

Option 5 – 7 nights: The full circuit blends Barbuda time with an extended Antigua north-coast expedition and a Redonda detour. Start with a day in Barbuda's Codrington Lagoon, then anchor along Antigua's coves from Darkwood to Carlisle Bay, with a private picnic on a sandbank each night. The staff tailor wildlife-watching sessions in shallows, and a sunset dinner on deck rounds out the voyage. The pace stays relaxed, the sea stays alive, and the winter seas often offer calmer conditions for longer hops.

Must-Visit Destinations: Nelson's Dockyard, Barbuda's Pink Sand Beach, and Beyond

Start with Nelson's Dockyard: secure a private, fixed mooring near English Harbour, then step ashore for a leisurely stroll along the shoreline as your crew refuels the yacht and you toast the morning breeze, even as the deck is rocking slightly. The harbor is set between islands, with an aspen sculpture courtyard offering a calm backdrop for photos.

Barbuda's Pink Sand Beach runs along the western shoreline, a private escape famous for its powder-pink sand and clear, turquoise water; arrive with your yacht, lay a picnic on the rim of the surf, and watch for playful rays skimming the shallows over the reef.

Starting these itineraries lets you trace a trinity of highlights from Nelson's Dockyard to Barbuda and a few quiet coves to extend the voyage; keep each day level with a mix of anchor time, snorkeling, and shore excursions, so the crew manages transitions smoothly and a part of the day stays filled with color.

Winter crossings are cooler offshore, yet the breeze stays fresh for comfortable passages; throughout, with a well-equipped yacht and a steady crew, you can spend days afloat and nights ashore in private, curated stops, avoiding kaos on deck, even if the sea starts rocking.

From Nelson's Dockyard to Barbuda and beyond, extend your route to include nearby cays and reefs; these islands offer leisurely snorkeling, beach clubs, and crafts markets to browse; maybe you reserve a private picnic on a secluded crescent and invite the whole crew to toast sunset, all while the fresh air keeps you from getting overwhelmed.

Keep the pace relaxed, a fixed schedule with flexible hours throughout the voyage; starting every morning with fresh coffee and ginger breeze, you can adapt from a quiet morning sail to an active afternoon ashore, and spend time on deck watching the sun skim the waves after a hearty lunch.

Crewed vs Bareboat Charters: Choosing the Right Model for Your Group

Choose a crewed charter for most groups in Antigua and Barbuda. They deliver a home base feel with a captain, chef, and steward who arrange customized itineraries, handle docking, and keep meals on track. This laid-back service lets your party stay yours, think less about logistics, and start each day with magnificent options and spots to explore. For winter trips, the crew tailors the route to maximize sunshine, ensuring unforgettable and chilled days aboard a fleet of yachts.

Bareboat charters cater to first-time skippers who expect to helm the boat themselves or hire a captain for added assurance. You rent the hull and set your own rhythm, even when a captain is aboard, choosing a catamaran for stability or a sleek monohull for speed. In Antigua's sheltered bays, tropical winds and calm evenings make bareboat feasible, but you must manage provisioning, safety briefings, insurance, and moorings. This option appeals to boatcrowd travelers who crave control and want to customize a trip that starts at your own pace.

To decide, weigh group size, sailing experience, and preferred pace. For groups of 6–12, a crewed catamaran or motor yacht fits well; for a party of 4–6, a bareboat with a simple crew can work. Think about destinations like Nelson's Dockyard, Falmouth Harbour, Jolly Harbour, Valley Church Beach, and other spots around Antigua and Barbuda. The plan should start with flexible routes that balance sailing time with swimming and island visits. The trinity of comfort, control, and cost guides the choice, and in most cases a crewed option proves easier for first-time guests while bareboats attract boatcrowd travelers seeking savings and a customized pace.

When you’re ready to decide, arrange a plan with your Antigua broker to lock in dates and a yacht that matches your group’s vibe.

Best Time to Charter: Weather Windows, Winds, and Seasonal Patterns

Book December through April for the most reliable weather window along Antigua and Barbuda. While the sun stays high and the trade winds settle into a steady breeze, plan a cruise through sheltered coves and daily opportunities to anchor in a protected bay and wake to a sunrise over turquoise water.

Winds and seas: NE trades typically run 15-25 knots, with occasional gusts to 28 near the zenit. Seas hover around 1-2 meters, delivering a comfortable wake behind a superyacht and a relaxed cruise through the islands. Such conditions let you arrange beach landings for a picnic, visit secluded bays, and enjoy privacy while the crew handles the details on the fly.

Seasonal patterns: The hurricane season spans June to November, with the highest risk from August to October. For most charter guests, December–April remains the core window, while May and November offer fewer crowds and good conditions if you prefer lower rates. If seeking the quietest itinerary, plan for dates on weekdays and tailor routes that stay within protected inshore waters where weather is more predictable. nelsons Dockyard provides easy access to shore restaurants and cultural stops, while the crew keeps the pace comfortable.

Planning tips: To maximize privacy and comfort on a superyacht, arrange dates that align with dry-season windows and let the crew craft a route through secluded coves, sand bars, and shallow reefs. For a romantic day, set up a picnic on sand and request a private dining option at a restaurant ashore or on deck. If you seek an exclusive experience, choose a yacht that offers tailored itineraries through calm seas and avoids crowded anchorages; a wake along the bow at zenit light creates perfect photos. The chef can pipe sauces to the plates for a seamless on-board dining experience. When you are ready, provide your dates and rough length; the crew will tailor the program to catch the best weather while delivering the comfort and privacy you expect from a home at sea.

Budgeting for a Luxury Charter: Rates, Fees, and Hidden Costs

Begin with a clear weekly budget: the base charter rate, an APA of 20-30% for provisioning, and a 15% crew gratuity. In Antigua and Barbuda, a tropical week aboard a 60–80 ft yacht typically ranges from $25,000 to $40,000, while 80–100 ft vessels run $40,000 to $70,000, and larger yachts over 100 ft can exceed $70,000 per week. Use the broker’s starting point to tailor the quote to your dates and boat size, and aim for something straightforward to benchmark quotes while aligning with an ideal balance of fine finishes and practical spending.

Hidden costs to plan for include APA for provisioning, typically 20-30% of the base rate, which covers onboard groceries and beverages; fuel is often charged separately or capped. Expect overhead items like port fees, docking charges, and crew meals to appear at ashore stops. The fine crafts on board reflect the yacht built to high standards, and the crew will serve meals and drinks, adding to the experience. Provisioning for meals, drinks, and special dietary requests adds to the total, as do generator hours, water toys, and tender use. A standard crew gratuity sits around 15% of the base rate. Taxes and permits vary by port, so confirm what applies in Antigua before you inquire with your broker.

To avoid surprises, request a detailed line-item quote and ask what’s included and what isn’t. Inquire about inclusive packages that cover meals and beverages, and clarify how the chef or onboard crew’s services are billed. Confirm whether dinner can be prepared onboard or ashore, and whether excursions or special experiences, such as private island visits or snorkeling adventures, are capped or charged separately. A leisurely pace helps manage costs, and a written plan helps you compare charters on a like-for-like basis and keeps the lights and breeze comfortable throughout your stay. If needed, extend the charter with prorated rates. If you’ve chartered a yacht in the past, use that experience to ask targeted questions about fuel and provisioning.

Example budget for a 7-night charter on a 90 ft yacht: base rate $60,000; APA 25% $15,000; provisioning $6,000; fuel $5,000; port/dock fees $2,200; crew gratuity $9,000; taxes/permits $8,000; estimated total before extras $115,200. Add private dinners, snorkel trips, or sunset cruises $3,000–$5,000 as needed. This gives you something concrete to enjoy with friends and craft breathtaking water adventures on charters, helping you escape the ordinary.