Looking for yacht charters with a private chef for your next escape? When you embark on one of our all-inclusive yacht charters, one of the many luxury services at your disposal is gourmet dining onboard prepared by a professional yacht chef. In fact, on all of our USVI and BVI yacht charters, this aspect of the experience tends to be the one that our guests rave about the most. After all, is there anything better than indulging in decadent meals on vacation?

To give you a peek into some of the customized yacht experiences that we offer, we’d like to introduce you to one of our talented crew members, Chef Glen Massey.

Looking for personalized yacht charter vacation planning assistance? Contact our yacht consultant Liza directly. 

Meet Professional Yacht Chef Glen Massey

Chef Glen is a South African culinary artist with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry. Originally a mixologist and restaurant manager, his passion for flavor led him to pursue formal training at the Super Yacht Culinary Academy.

Chef Glen joined the &Beyond Yacht Charters team in 2023 as one of the three crew members & sole chef onboard yacht Mahasattva. Mahasattva is a luxury Lagoon 620 catamaran, offering 4 queen guest cabins, each with individual air conditioning controls and private en-suite bathrooms. The main salon is very spacious with the galley being below deck. The aft deck is available for alfresco dining, lounging, and access to water and an abundance of water toys. She has a large fly-bridge with a 360-degree views, a bar, ice maker, loads of seating both under shade and in the sun for bathing. The foredeck has comfortable sun-beds perfect for sunbathing underway.

During the 2023/24 season in the US and British Virgin Islands, Chef Glen delighted guests with his fresh, locally inspired dishes. Here are some of the many rave reviews he received:

“Glen made the best desserts and food.”

“Every night we gave him applause for his incredible dishes.”

“Thank you fro your impeccable attention to every detail to make us feel incredibly taken care of.”

“Glen – you spoiled us with all the spectacular meals and stair step conversations.”

“Glen’s cooking skills were amazing and he constantly outdid himself.”

“The food was out of this world. Not one bad meal and plenty of food. It was a great variety too!”

Chef Glen Trains at École Ducasse Paris

During our off-season months each year (typically August, September, and October), our yachts are hauled out of the water to be spruced up for the upcoming season and all of our crews head out for a well-deserved vacation of their own. Once they return from vacation, we invest in professional training and added certifications for our crew members in their specific areas of expertise to refine the top tier service they are able to offer their guests.

This year, Chef Glen further honed his skills at the École Ducasse Paris Campus, a world-renowned institution. This prestigious culinary school equipped him with advanced techniques and a deeper understanding of global cuisine.

Chef Glen looks forward to bringing the elite training he received in Paris back to the Virgin Islands for this season’s exclusive yacht charters onboard yacht Mahasattva.

The Gourmet Culinary Experience Onboard Yacht Mahasattva

Known for his fresh, light, and locally-inspired dishes, Chef Glen believes in bringing a sense of place to every meal. He enjoys the challenge of creating diverse menus and loves the personal touch of working on a yacht. On our yacht charters with a private chef like Chef Glen, every guest’s unique preferences and dietary needs are taken into close consideration. Our yacht chefs develop crowd-pleasing plated meals for every day of your vacation, never repeating, and always ensuring the dishes presented are both delicious and irresistibly photographable.

How to Book one of our Exclusive Yacht Charters

If you’re looking for crewed yachts in the Caribbean, we’d love to welcome you onboard Mahasattva. Join us this 2024/25 yacht charter season in the USVI and BVI. To check availability for your desired weeks, you can contact our yacht consultant, Liza, directly. Or, you can reach out to your trusted yacht broker. You may also visit our Yachts page to tour all of the luxury yachts in our fleet available for all-inclusive yacht charters.

Looking for luxury charters in the Mediterranean? Or all-inclusive yacht charters in other regions of the world? We’ve got you covered. We can also assist you in vacation planning for yachting destinations beyond the Caribbean. Visit our Other Destinations page for more details.

Whether you’re a new yacht owner, or have been fortunate to own yachts for many years, choosing to charter your yacht is an entirely different proposition. If you’re wondering how to turn your yacht into a full service yacht charter, there are many things to consider. Likely if you’ve already begun your research, your to-do list keeps growing. We understand – it can get overwhelming!

Maintaining and managing a yacht that’s intended to provide a luxury vacation experience can be a complex and demanding task. Thus, this is where our yacht management program comes to the rescue. By placing your yacht into a proven yacht management program like ours, you can transform your ownership experience.

If you don’t own a yacht yet, we recommend that you start by reaching out to our industry partners, Catamaran Central. They can assist you in finding the right yacht that’s geared towards commercial chartering.

Here are just a few of the responsibilities that we can take off of your plate (and mind!) as your yacht management team:

Meticulous Yacht Maintenance

Our yacht management program employs a team of skilled professionals who are well-versed in all aspects of yacht maintenance, operation, and administration. We ensure your vessel is in peak condition, managing routine maintenance, repairs, and inspections, so your yacht remains seaworthy and safe. Also, this will maximize your future resale value.

Maximizing your Charter Income

If you’re not using your yacht year-round, placing it in our yacht management program can be a lucrative option. We handle everything from marketing, to broker connections, to concierge-style booking to fill up the available weeks. Additionally, our local and industry connections allow for cost effective maintenance and provisioning.

Luxury Crew Management

Recruiting, training, and retaining experienced crew members can be a daunting task. We have a network of qualified hospitality & yachting professionals, ensuring your yacht is staffed with a competent and trustworthy crew.

Full Service Back-up Charter Support

Situations happen. For this reason, we have local chase boats and back-up management teams available 24/7 when guests are onboard your yacht in the event of yachting issues. This allows charters to continue smoothly and prevents loss of charter income. Additionally, crews receive the support they need to provide the highest level guest experience.

Competent Legal and Administrative Support

Managing the myriad legal and administrative requirements associated with yacht ownership can be overwhelming. This is why &Beyond Yacht Charters’ experienced team handles these tasks, from flagging and registration to compliance with international maritime laws. Above all, we give you a partner you can trust with all aspects of your yacht.

Placing your yacht into our yacht management program can turn the dream of yacht ownership into a stress-free reality. Our professional expertise, cost-efficiency, and convenient services allow our yacht owners to fully enjoy their yachts without the hassle of day-to-day management.

On a family yacht vacation, the most captivating activities are the ones where families can connect with the natural world. In the Virgin Islands, a favorite marine creature to see in the wild is the sea turtle.

Several species of sea turtle play an integral role in St. John’s underwater world, and their conservation is of paramount importance to the island’s biodiversity and overall ecological health.

If you’d like to snorkel with sea turtles on your next family yacht vacation, let our yacht consultant know and we can coordinate time on St. John!

Why Sea Turtles Matter:

Sea turtles play an indispensable role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. They are nature’s gardeners, contributing to seagrass beds and the overall health of surrounding coral reefs by grazing on algae, which, if left unchecked, can smother marine habitats. Their nests, carefully laid on St. John’s beaches, aid in fertilizing the sandy shores, benefiting dune ecosystems.

Challenges to Sea Turtle Survival:

Sea turtles face a multitude of threats, and thus our intentional protection is necessary. Nesting sites are particularly vulnerable to rising sea levels and erosion caused by climate change. Moreover, plastic pollution in the ocean poses a significant danger, as sea turtles often mistake plastic bags for jellyfish, a staple in their diet. Fishing gear, boat strikes, and habitat degradation further compound these challenges. And, of course, human interference.

St. John’s Conservation Efforts:

The St. John community and National Park Service, in partnership with local and international organizations, has been working tirelessly to conserve sea turtles and their habitats. Through rigorous monitoring of nesting sites, biologists and volunteers can safeguard nests from predation and erosion. Hatchlings are often assisted on their journey from nest to sea to increase their chances of survival.

St. John has also implemented strict regulations for boating and fishing in turtle habitats. Education and awareness programs have been vital in inspiring both locals and tourists to adopt eco-friendly practices. By reducing single-use plastics and adopting sustainable tourism habits, individuals can make a significant contribution to sea turtle conservation.

Now that you’ve booked a USVI yacht charter, you’ve likely already begun to imagine all of the amazing water sports activities you will partake in. And while the stunning blue waters are irresistible, there’s another aspect of the USVI that often goes overlooked—the breathtaking hikes.

On your next USVI yacht charter with us, allow our crews to show you the natural beauty of the VI that can be found on land, too, in the Virgin Islands National Park. Here are six must-do hikes for your upcoming island vacation:

1. Ram Head Trail, St. John

The Ram Head Trail, located on the east side of St. John, offers world-class, panoramic views of the Caribbean Sea and Salt Pond Bay. The trail leads you through diverse landscapes, including cactus-filled plains and dramatic cliffs, making it perfect for those who enjoy a varied hike.

2. Reef Bay Trail, St. John

The Reef Bay Trail, located not far from Cruz Bay on St. John, is an immersive hike that takes you through lush rainforests to a hidden waterfall. The most iconic feature of this hike is the petroglyphs left by the island’s original inhabitants, the Taino people.

3. Caneel Hill Trail, St. John

For a shorter but equally rewarding hike, visit the Caneel Hill hike. This trail provides stunning vistas of the surrounding islands on a scenic overlook, and is conveniently located near Cruz Bay, making it a perfect day hike on your yacht charter. Also, you’re close to restaurants and shopping that you can enjoy in town before or after your hike.

4. Annaberg Plantation Trail, St. John

Discover the rich history of St. John by hiking the Annaberg Plantation Trail. Wander through the ruins of an 18th-century sugar plantation while enjoying panoramic views of Mary Creek Bay and Leinster Bay. This hike is a great option to pair with kayaking and snorkeling in Leinster Bay and nearby Waterlemon Cay.

5. Magen’s Bay Trail, St. Thomas

St. Thomas’ most famous beach, Magen’s Bay, also offers an intriguing trail to hike. This relatively easy hike is great for bird watchers, and offers a captivating view of the giant bay’s beautiful beach below.

6. Cas Cay, St. Thomas

Located just beyond the Mangrove Lagoon on St. Thomas, Cas Cay is an uninhabited nature preserve. Hike the dramatic cliffs, visit a volcanic blowhole, and enjoy sweeping sea views. Don’t miss the army of hermit crabs who calls this little island home.

These hikes are not only a way to experience the natural beauty of the USVI, but are also a chance to connect with the culture and history of these enchanting islands. Whether you’re an avid hiker or simply seeking a new adventure, these hikes are the perfect complement to your USVI yacht charter. Our crews will be delighted to be your guides to this unique aspect of paradise.

Looking forward to enjoying a state of pure relaxation on your chartered yacht? We can’t wait treat you to a truly rejuvenating getaway!

We understand that a big part of relaxing for many of our guests includes indulging in your favorite drinks and cocktails – that’s why they’re included in your luxury charter experience. While sipping on a beverage of your choice can enhance the yacht experience, it’s essential to know how to do it responsibly and safely. It’s also important to know our policies regarding other substances onboard in advance of your yacht charter, so you pack accordingly.

–> If you need assistance in finding the right charter yacht for you, contact our yacht consultant. 

Here are a few things to keep in mind in regards to imbibing on your chartered yacht:

1. Know the rules and regulations of the boat & local government

Our yachts in our fleet all comply with the regulations of the US Coastguard and British Virgin Islands government. This means that no illegal drugs are allowed onboard our vessels including, but not limited to: marijuana, psychedelic mushrooms, cocaine, and any other party drugs. The legal drinking age in the US and British Virgin Islands is 18.

2. Plan ahead if you require prescription medication(s)

If you will need to take any prescription medications during your yacht charter, we recommend that you bring the necessary amounts with you. Pharmacies in the islands aren’t always as well-stocked as they are elsewhere. This means that finding refills of your specific medications isn’t always easy (or possible). Please ensure that your prescription medications are officially labeled and have your name printed on them. All prescription medication must be prescribed to a passenger onboard.

3. Stay hydrated on your chartered yacht

While enjoying alcoholic beverages is part of the yacht experience, it’s equally important to stay hydrated, especially in the sun and sea air. Dehydration can lead to discomfort and seasickness, which can quickly ruin the fun. Remember to drink water even more frequently than you would back at home. Your crew will help remind you!

4. Respect your captain and crew

Please listen and respect any directions provided to you by your captain and/or crew members. Your safety is their top priority. This also includes not jeopardizing your captain’s license by secretly bringing any illegal substances onboard the vessel.

5. Know your limits and avoid overindulging

It’s easy to get carried away in the relaxed atmosphere of a chartered yacht, but knowing your alcohol limits is essential. Overindulging can lead to accidents, seasickness, or other health issues. Enjoy your drinks in moderation, savor the flavors, and be mindful of how alcohol affects you.

Imbibing on your chartered yacht can be a fun part of your vacation, enhancing the overall experience. However, responsible and informed drinking is key to ensuring your safety, the safety of your fellow passengers, and the overall enjoyment of your journey.

Cheers to smooth sailing and unforgettable memories!

Looking for a green getaway? Are you an eco-minded traveler? If you seek to reduce your impact on the environment when you travel, then a Virgin Islands sailing vacation with us will be an excellent fit.

At &Beyond Yacht Charters, we are committed to sharing this unique Caribbean destination while maintaining gentle and intentional respect for the environment. Here are some of the ways that your Virgin Islands yacht charter with us is not only a luxurious, but also an eco-friendly vacation option:

1. Our Virgin Islands sailing yachts are crewed by teams who are passionate about protecting the seas.

We recruit crew members for our yachts whose experience and interests center around the ocean. Whether they’re lifelong sailors, marine scientists, or master divers, they are educated in ecologically responsible behavior. Thus, they share their knowledge and devotion to the sea with their guests.

2. We strive to provide luxuriously sustainable vacation accommodations.

We outfit the yachts in our fleet with green amenities like organic bedding and linens, ocean safe toiletries, and energy-efficient appliances. Additionally, the yachts are designed to maximize natural resources such as skylights and breezeways. Plus, guests onboard our yachts are also provided with reef-safe sunscreen only. These small touches ensure you have a comfortable stay without harming the environment.

3. Water is a precious resource in the Virgin Islands, so we use it efficiently.

The &Beyond Yacht Charters fleet is equipped with advanced water filtration systems. These systems purify seawater, thus reducing the need for single-use plastic bottles. Also, it ensures you always have a steady supply of fresh water.

4. We reduce our waste at every opportunity.

Our yacht crews are committed to waste reduction. Onboard, we use reusable items like water bottles, utensils, and shopping bags, reducing single-use plastic waste that can harm marine life and ecosystems. And, anywhere we visit on charter, the only thing we leave behind are footprints (or snorkel bubbles!).

6. We embrace the natural side of paradise.

We love to sail whenever time and weather conditions make it possible, and provide our guests with access to water sports that require nothing more than your body to operate such as snorkeling, hiking, paddle boarding, and kayaking.

7. We provision our yachts with locally caught fish and locally grown produce whenever possible.

We plan our menus for your charter with locally available ingredients in mind. Sometimes, your crew will even dive for your dinner! Local lobster, anyone?

Embarking on an eco-friendly Virgin Islands sailing vacation is an opportunity to explore paradise without making a negative impact upon it. By choosing &Beyond Yacht Charters, who prioritizes sustainability, you can rest assured that the environmental responsibility of your holiday is being taken care of in every aspect of your trip.

If you have an upcoming Virgin Islands yacht charter booked, you likely have a few questions. Our team is here to provide you with all of the information you need every step of the way – before, during, and after your vacation. In addition to the pre-arrival emails we have sent your way, we do our best to answer the top frequently asked questions we receive, here on our blog.

In today’s hyper-connected world, we understand that staying in touch with family, friends, or work commitments is often a concern for travelers. Fortunately, modern technology has made it easier than ever to stay connected while sailing around the Virgin Islands – both the USVI and BVI.

Here’s everything you need to know about staying connected during your charter vacation with us:

Is Wi-Fi available on Virgin Islands yacht charters?

We have made it a priority to offer Wi-Fi on our vessels as a part of our luxury experience. However, the quality and availability of the connection can vary depending on your location throughout the charter. While you can generally expect a strong Wi-Fi signal near popular ports and marinas, be prepared for occasional disruptions when sailing in more remote areas. If maintaining a strong connection is an absolute priority for you during your charter, your captain will adjust your itinerary accordingly.

Can I use my cell phone in the Virgin Islands?

The US Virgin Islands have good cellular coverage. If your cell phone plan includes international roaming, you can likely use your phone as you would at home in the British Virgin Islands, too. We do recommend that you check with your provider about international rates and data usage before your trip.

Will I be able to be reached in the event of an emergency?

Our home office is located in St. Thomas and our team is able to reach any of our yachts while they’re out on charter. Throughout your charter, you will never be out of touch with your yacht’s crew. So, in the event of an emergency, we will do everything we can to reach you wherever you’re located via the yacht crew.

Is there a need for connectivity at all times during Virgin Islands yacht charters?

While it’s essential to stay connected for safety and communication purposes, we encourage you to remember that part of the charm of a yacht charter is the opportunity to disconnect from the digital world and immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Virgin Islands. Consider setting boundaries for when you’ll use technology and when you’ll fully embrace the sailing experience.

In conclusion, staying connected on our Virgin Islands yacht charters is manageable, thanks to the availability of Wi-Fi and cellular coverage. Plan ahead, and strike a balance between connectivity and relaxation to make the most of your unforgettable journey through this Caribbean paradise.

Are you planning on joining us for a yacht charter in the Virgin Islands? There is so much to see and do in this multi-faceted destination. Beyond this blog, remember that we’re always here to help you in answering your pre-charter questions. So, to kick off your excitement in planning your trip, here are some ideas for what to do when you’re not on your yacht.

The Virgin Islands offer an array of shore-based activities, all of which you’ll have access to on one of our yacht charter vacations. Whether you’re an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or a history buff, the Virgin Islands offer something for everyone.

1. Beaches that cover all the bases

The Virgin Islands boast some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Whether you prefer to spend your day sunbathing on the powdery white sand, snorkeling in crystal-clear waters, or bar hopping between charming beach shacks, there’s something for everyone.

2. Water sports for active adventurers

If you love to explore and play, our yachts are equipped with the gear you need. Take a sea scooter to the beach, stand-up paddle along the shoreline, and snorkel the abundant reefs.

3. Hiking and exploring for nature lovers

Nature enthusiasts will find the Virgin Islands teeming with diverse flora and fauna. Scenic hiking trails offer jaw-dropping views, and healthy mangroves showcase protected spaces for local creatures to converge. Plus, St. John is home to the Virgin Islands National Park, covering nearly two thirds of the entire island.

4. Historic sites for history buffs

Immerse yourself in the rich history of the Virgin Islands by visiting historic sites with your crew. Whether it’s the Indigenous Taino’s ancient petroglyphs, sugar mill plantation ruins, or infamous pirate castles and forts, these relics from the past offer a glimpse into the islands’ colonial history and pirate lore.

5. Local Cuisine and Shopping

Savor the flavors of the Caribbean by sampling creative eats at local restaurants and beachside bars. Taste local seafood, iconic tropical cocktails, and traditional dishes of the region. You can also indulge in some retail therapy at quaint boutiques and find souvenirs for those back at home.

Whether you’re seeking relaxation, adventure, or cultural enrichment, the Virgin Islands offer a wide range of shore activities for our yacht charter guests. With its natural beauty, historic sites, and vibrant culture, this Caribbean paradise promises an unforgettable holiday in the sun.

Ready to indulge in a vacation at sea? If so, you’re likely in the midst of deciding whether private yacht vacations or cruises are better suited for you and your travel companions. While both options offer unique experiences on the water in stunning destinations, they each cater to different preferences and desires.

If you’re looking for luxury and a getaway that will exceed your expectations for both fun and relaxation, then here’s why our private yacht vacations may be the best pick for you.

–> Need concierge-level assistance to answer more specific questions? Please contact our yacht consultant for expert guidance.

Intimacy + Privacy are All Yours on our Yachts

You won’t get lost in the crowd with &Beyond Yacht Charters. One of the most significant differences between our private yacht vacations and cruises is the level of intimacy. The yachts in our fleet offer an exclusive, personalized experience. Our yachting vacations are ideal for couples, multi-generational families, or small groups of friends.

With a limited number of guests onboard (anywhere from 2 – 8 per vessel), you’ll enjoy undivided attention from the crew. Plus, you have the freedom to shape your trip around your specific preferences. The yacht you charter is all yours for the week. This means that you and your group have the space to connect with one another over meals, while lounging, and more without being interrupted by the thousands of other guests you share space with on a cruise ship.

Your Itinerary is Flexible & Personalized

There are no set-in-stone schedules or predetermined cruising routes with us! Comparatively, our private yacht vacations give you a week (or more) of unparalleled flexibility. In collaboration with your captain, you can choose where to go, what water and land-based activities you partake in, and how long you stay at each destination. There is no specific daily time that you’re required to be “back to the ship.” Also, there is not a lengthy boarding/debarking process to account for.

On our yachts, you’ll have access to secluded coves, hidden gems, bucket list activities, and more. Enjoy it all at your own pace, based on your level of interest.

Private Yacht Vacations are Luxury Travel at its Best

Hate standing in line at a buffet? We understand! Private yacht vacations are synonymous with luxury. Firstly, our vessels are fully crewed with professionally trained crew and captain, onboard at all times, at your service. Secondly, all meals are all-inclusive, locally inspired, and prepared to your specific dietary needs and preferences. Also, you will find &Beyond Yacht Charters yachts to be expertly appointed with all of the amenities you need to both play and relax. Unlike cruises where you’re just another number, with us you’re an individual whose expectations we can’t wait to exceed.

Are you ready to experience personalized luxury, freedom, and seclusion? Then the private yacht vacation of your dreams awaits, and we can’t wait to welcome you onboard our yachts!

When searching for yacht charter vacations, you will likely come across options for bareboat charter, captain-only charter, and fully crewed yacht charter. We have shared some of the reasons we recommend chartering yachts with crews versus bareboating in this previous post, but we thought it would also be helpful to share the differences between a captain-only charter compared to fully crewed, which is what we provide at &Beyond Yacht Charters.

*Quick note: If you have questions beyond the scope of this blog post, feel free to reach out to our yacht consultant, Liza, for a concierge-level booking experience. 

Crewed, but with Captain only

Many yacht charters you will see listed in the Virgin Islands are crewed, but with a captain only. This means that for the entirety of your yacht charter vacation, it will be only your group and the one captain on the vessel. The captain will be responsible for the group’s safety and operation of the boat, as well as transportation to and from the boat via dinghy. He/she will share their local knowledge and recommendations, but beyond that, you will be responsible for the rest – meals, food prep, cleaning, activities, etc.

Fully crewed Yacht Charters

At &Beyond Yacht Charters, all of our yachts are fully crewed because we believe it provides a far superior luxury vacation experience.

On our fully crewed yacht charter, there will be a captain and one or two crew members onboard (depending on the size of the vessel) for the entirety of your charter. Our crew members provide an array of services that are officially no longer your responsibility as a guest.

• Our crew will assist the captain with the operation of the yacht such as docking, mooring, and more.
• Our crew will maintain the yacht throughout your week onboard to the highest cleanliness standards.
• Our crew will lead any activities you partake in (hiking, snorkeling, water sports, etc.) to share their local insights and ensure everyone’s safety.
• Our crew will provision the boat for the week in advance of your arrival, taking into account any special dietary needs/preferences.
• Our crew will prepare all snacks, drinks, and world class meals, which are included in your charter price.
• Our crew will provide general service to all guests, sharing their impeccable hospitality each day and night.

As you can see, it’s an entirely different experience to charter a yacht fully crewed compared to captain-only. If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury escape, visit our Yachts page to meet our crews and check availability.