Sailing the BVI's

[DannyT]

My wife and I are planning to purchase a sailboat in the BVI'S and sail Jan thru April each year and then store the boat on the hard. We are not rich, I am a retired policeman and she is (in 20 months) retired federal goverment. We currently own a 31' sailboat on Lake Erie. We have sailed the BVI's and St. Martin on a friends boat.

We are looking for a 32' to 34' sailboat. So far we have talked to a few brokers of boats coming out of charter. What type of issues should we be considering? What is the cost of sailing and storing a boat in the BVI's. Insurance costs, etc. Any advice would be helpful.

Danny

[Swagman]

Hi Danny,

We've only visited the BVI's once and that was a charter with Sunsail. Why not make direct contact with them as opposed to a broker? Moorings also have a large fleet.

I've no doubts they'll have charter yachts for sale end season - and can advise on hardstanding costs etc.

Until you know what boat you've got the question of insurance costs is going to be hard for anyone to answer - but once you've chosen you can contact 10 different underwriters / brokers for quotes.

Good luck

JOHN.

[JeanneP]

Keep in mind, charter yachts are "rode hard, put away wet".

They can be pretty beaten up by the time they come off charter. cosmetically they are often pretty good, but it's the care of the engine, sails, etc. that leaves a lot to be desired.

Take a look at my photos of Hurricane HUGO (1989). http://www.cruiser.co.za/hostmelon4.asp, especially the lovely charter yacht with its sails in rags. boats left in the Caribbean for hurricanes can be damaged and you need to find out how badly.

Sorry, too many people get snookered - see other posting on this topic http://www.cruiserlog.com/forums/top...?TOPIC_ID=1732

Leaving tghe boat in the hurricane belt during hurricane season will cost you. Ask Al golden, IMIS insurance www.IMIScorp.net