Frequently Asked Questions
Island Hoppers Caribbean Private Sailboat Vacations
At Island Hoppers we understand that deciding whether to spend your hard earned vacation savings on a Caribbean private sailboat vacation is a big decision. We strive to make that decision even easier for you by providing answers many of the questions that we have heard over the years. We have also worked very hard to deliver a great value for vacation, in both affordable pricing and quality activities and destinations. We are confident that once you step foot on the yacht, feel the wind in your hair and the sun on your face, you will understand why Island Hoppers was a great choice for your Caribbean private sailboat vacation.
A few things to expect on your Private Sailboat Vacation
- Practicing water conservation aboard is part of the adventure of sailing. The water tanks on the yachts are limited so all of us take short showers, turn the water off while we brush our teeth, we use small amounts of water to wash dishes aboard. A good rule of thumb to remember not to just let the water run.
- You will be enjoying sea breezes rather than air conditioning; the nights can be cool. There is almost always a breeze since we are in the tropics. Each cabin is equipped with wall mounted fans and blankets.
- Virtual Orientation Meeting – There will be a virtual meeting scheduled prior to the start of the charter to answer any last-minute questions. The meeting typically last 45 minutes to one hour. In the meantime, the following information will help you prepare for your adventure. Please reach out to us with any questions you have at any time. If we don’t know the answer, we will do our best to find out.
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- Air fares from home to destination
- Entry & departure taxes
- Taxi to and from airport
- Ferry costs if arriving in St. Thomas and taking ferry to Tortola
- Hotel costs if arriving early or departing after the charter
- Passport
- Any travel insurance documentation
- Proof of covid vaccination
- In your pre-trip conference call, we will discuss denominations and currency.
- Glen says “about $100 per day for ‘walking around’ money per couple.”
- Dinners ashore are comparable to US costs
- Gifts, souvenirs, and other purchases depend on your spending plan
- Drink prices are also comparable to US costs
- Passport and Covid Vaccination record
- Shorts – quick dry is preferable
- Tops – t shirts
- Underwear
- Swim wear
- Long sleeve jacket or shirt for cool evenings – maybe add leggings or light long pants
- Sundress – for dinners ashore – optional – dress is usually casual
- Socks (optional)
- Rain jacket
- Keens, Tevas or water proof stable shoes ( flip flops are not stable for entry and exit to dinghy)
- Flip flops (optional if you prefer those for walking on land)
Toiletries & Medicines
- Shampoo/Conditioner, Soap
- Toothbrush, Toothpaste, Floss
- Makeup is optional
- Any over the counter medications you use – Advil, Tylenol, etc.
- Dramamine or anti-nausea meds of your choice if needed
- Sunscreen – if you have a preferred brand
- Insect repellant of your choice
- Glasses plus a spare
- Sunglasses
- REMINDER – Any illegal substance including weed is strictly prohibited. First consequence is captain of boat going to jail. Just plan not to bring those substances.
- Charging cords for electronic devices
- Something to read or puzzle book
- Teabags for hot tea
- Day backpack for taking to town
- Money
- Floating sunglass cord in case wind blows sunglasses off
- Ball cap
- Baby wipes
- Washcloth – not usually included in linens provide by charter
- Zip locs for phone protection, other plastic bags for transporting wet clothes home
- Diving gear – mask, snorkel & fins– these can also be borrowed at boat dock before departure
We stock a basic bar aboard our yachts. It will consist of beer, wine for our dinners on board and rum for happy hour. All of the various mixers are provided as well. Your captain will be skilled at mixing the local rum favorites. Should you desire a special brand of libation, you are welcome to bring your own. There will be ample opportunities to pick up whatever you like before and during the trip.
Our yachts feature four staterooms, each with private head and shower. In addition there is a full galley and dining salon. Basic linens and bath towels are provided. Your trip with Island Hoppers is a fully live-aboard experience! You may wish to bring or purchase a beach towel.
We do provide snorkel gear and you will have a few opportunities to snorkel along the way. You may wish to bring your own mask if you have good gear. However, our boats are not equipped for scuba diving. We do not schedule a scuba dive trip during the week, our guests who wish to scuba typically come early or stay over to accomplish a scuba dive. We can give you the names of a few dive centers that do day dives before or after your Island Hoppers Sailing trip. Consult with Glen or Anne about timing for booking a scuba ahead of the charter.
Offering a gratuity to the captain of the yacht for paying attention to detail and ensuring that everyone’s expectations are met or exceeded is customary in the islands. However, at Island Hoppers Sailing Vacations we never encourage nor discourage the tradition of tipping. If you have enjoyed your trip, feel free to let your Captain know in any form you deem appropriate .
Depending on the trip or itinerary you have selected, you may or may not be staying on the boat the first night. However, due to clean-up for the next trip, you will not be able to stay overnight upon your return.
If you are a single female, you will share a cabin with another single female: If you are a single male then you share a cabin with another single male.
Yes! Just contact us with the dates you have in mind, and how may people in your party. We will customize a trip just for you.
- Look at our sailing vacation schedule on our website for the week that fits your
schedule or contact us. Remember we can customize a trip for
most any week you choose. - Book on line or by calling our office.
- The balance will be automatically charged to the same card 60 days prior to the
departure date unless you specify otherwise. - Should you choose not to book on line you can contact us and book direct
with us. - It is that simple. You will get a confirmation email and Welcome Letter.
- Enjoy your sailing vacation. You won’t believe the fun you are going to have!