As a charter capt for lots of years, we would suggest that who ever you are chartering your vessel through, you talk to them, tell them what you are looking for in a skipper and somethings about yourselves. Your experience, what vessels that you have skippered, where you have sailed, how frequent.

I would think that you would want to be a major part of handling the boat, and trading off helm watches and navigation duties. Also, wondering if you have a BVI Cruising Guide that you can study, and select what islands and anchorages that you wish to visit.

There is a lot going on during your departure day. Chart Briefings, Vessel Systems Check out, loading and stowing provisions, and personal gear.

It really is important to learn all of the systems, rigging, instruments, lines, and inventory on board, and the skipper can help you out with all of that.

Just FYI, and how we would handle it to keep life easy and smooth.


The reason that I say, since this is not your own vessel, to have the charter company that you are with provide a skipper is that insurance is covered, the capt is well acquatinted with the vessel and the systems, knows the procedures of the company, and everything will be easy and smooth. NO surprises. Plus any problems with the vessel he is going to get them solved in short order.