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The sailing conditions in the Virgin Islands are nearly always perfect. Overnight moorings are available in most harbors. Navigation is easy - so it is a good area for less-experienced sailors to hone their chops. VIP's skipper qualification for bareboat chartering is based on your previous boating experience. On the other hand, VIP will be happy to arrange a skipper for you if you want to relax, or do not feel you have enough experience to bareboat. Click here for more details.
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St. Thomas enjoys direct service from most east coast airports with the major carriers. Internet sites such as Expedia and Travelocity provide ample selections for your travel planning.
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Provisioning is available, and in fact is one of our specialties at VIP. Simple fill out your provisioning form before your charter and we will purchase and stock your boat before you arrive for minimum hassle. Most overnight mooring destinations have great restaurants and bars on the islands if you don't want to cook aboard each night. Click here for more information about provisioning.
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Just the basics, since we take care of all boat equipment and provisioning for you. Shorts, t-shirts, hats, swim wear, sunscreen and rain gear are all needed for a hassle-free vacation. See the packing section below for more details. To see charter equipment details, click here.
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No problem. If you're scheduled to arrive after 2 p.m., there probably won't be enough time for you to complete your briefings and make your way to your first anchorage. So we may be able to offer arrival day Sleep aboard privileges at one-half the daily charter rate. Enjoy a restful evening aboard your yacht, then begin your charter the following day.The sleep aboard option could depend on the schedule of the charter that immediately precedes your charter start. VIP normally needs 24 to 48 hours to prepare a yacht for your use. If you would prefer to spend the evening at a hotel, your Charter Agent will be happy to make reservations for you.
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With VIP, a charter week is seven full sailing days, noon to noon, beginning on the day of the week you choose. Don't settle for anything less. Of course, you may sail for longer or shorter charters, but a charter day is a full 24 hours, always!
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Stateside cell providers are currently negotiating with the BVI based company to allow roaming withal special activation procedure. Currently, both Cingular and T-Mobile will work immediately upon entering their coverage area. Verizon and Sprint need an activation which can be done prior to traveling by contacting www.bvicellular.com. The vessel VHF is used for local traffic and/or emergency contact.
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Pack lightly, in soft luggage that can be easily stowed aboard your yacht. Life is simple in paradise. If you've packed more than a carry-on per person, you've packed too much. You'll need bathing suits, cotton shorts and shirts, and casual eveningwear. Jackets and ties are definitely not required. Shoes should be soft-soled sandals or boat shoes. Most important is sun protection: a broad-brimmed hat, baseball caps, loose cotton cover ups, plenty of sunscreen. Bring a windbreaker or cotton sweater for cool evenings. And don't forget your camera and lots of film, the Cruising Guide to the Virgin Islands that we sent when you reserved your yacht, and your favorite CD's.
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We'll provide snorkel gear for your crew. Chris Sawyer Dive Center will rent tanks and arrange for lessons, certification, or rendezvous dives. They deliver to the base. They can also be reached at www.sawyerdive.vi.
All VIP yachts have an inverter that will operate a blender or microwave, power your hair dryer and charge your video camera battery. You'll look wonderful on camera! Keep in mind that this system must be managed, inasmuch as the inverter cannot operate all AC appliances simultaneously.
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Credit cards and travelers checks are accepted at most shops and restaurants. You should carry some cash for smaller restaurants and beach bars. The US dollar is the accepted currency throughout the Virgins. There are ATMs in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, and Road Town, Tortola.
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Although the United States Virgin Islands are exempt from the new laws regarding reentry from the Caribbean, it is still a good idea to obtain a passport. By June 2008 a passport will be necessary to return to the USVI from the BVI.
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We want you to have an absolutely trouble-free vacation. If a problem should arise, contact the base immediately, and we'll assist you quickly. With chase boats and tech crews in both the BVI and USVI, we are never far away. And, remember, we guarantee that you'll have our prompt attention.
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Booking your yacht is easy - please see our booking instructions section for details about how to book and our reservations policies.
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