If you've never had the experience of being at the helm of a yacht as you sail through the crystal waters of the Virgin Islands, then consider making that your next vacation goal. A variety of yacht rental and/or vacation facilities are available that will provide you with a complete line of vessels from which to choose for your luxury excursion.

Yacht Chartering Services

+ Bareboats BVI - Located in Tortola, British Virgin Islands, this facility offers a comprehensive line of yachting models and services. Complete with Caribbean sailing charters, motor yacht vacations and crewed yachting holidays, there's something for everyone - with every level of experience - at this premier yacht chartering establishment. They can be located online at www.bareboatsbvi.com.

+ Island Yacht Charters - Be the skipper of your own chartered yacht or rent a crewed charter when you choose a vacation package through this top-of-the-line Caribbean facility. Located in the Red Hook area of St. Thomas, these folks also offer land packages which include accommodations at Villa Nathalie - a two-bedroom villa on the island's east end. For more information, visit their website at www.iyc.vi.

+ St. John's Classic Motor Yacht - Complete with public cruises and private charters, this establishment - located in Cinnamon Bay - offers a variety of vacation and charter packages. Destinations include Virgin Gorda, Outer Cay and Norman Treasure Caves, and will personally customize your trip to accommodate up to 40 guests. Their luxurious yachts include amenities such as spacious salons, teak and mahogany construction, awnings, oversized sun decks, on-board heads and more. Visit their website at http://motoryachtcinnamonbay.com to check out their vessels and vacation options.

+ Destination BVI - This wonderful online travel facility allows you to charter a yacht, plan a vacation and virtually tour the surrounding areas that you may choose to sail by visiting www.destinationbvi.com. Both motor and luxury yacht charters are available to guests, as well as special holiday options that are available during designated times. Whether you prefer a sailing yacht, motor yacht or luxury crewed yacht, you'll find what you're looking for at Destination BVI.

+ VIP Yacht Charters - With more than a dozen models to choose from and a variety of locations throughout the 75 islands which comprise the Virgin Islands territory - including both the US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands - VIP Yacht Charters offers comprehensive packages for vacationers who are looking for more than the run-of-the-mill boating excursion. Their website, www.vipyachts.com, includes fully linked pages that provide information on all aspects of your Caribbean vacation.

Amenities and Activities

For the most part, the basic types of activities and amenities that can be expected from a yacht chartering vacation are pretty much the same, regardless of which facility you choose for the planning of your excursion.

Although the particular attractions will vary from one destination to another, you can expect to enjoy excellent opportunities for fishing, water skiing, wind-surfing, snorkeling, scuba diving and kayaking, in addition to other water-related sports. For those who prefer to soak up the sun at the water's edge, there are plenty of beaches throughout the Virgin Islands, and most of the chartered yachts are equipped with spacious decks that are just right for getting a bit of sun without ever leaving your lodgings.

If you're booking a crewed yacht charter, or taking a group tour with others on a luxury yacht, then the menu is often prepared in advance, offering a delectable assortment of foods that will appeal to just about everyone. In addition, most will offer custom dishes for those who wish to enjoy a special favorite, since the chefs that accompany such cruises are generally pleased to accommodate guests in such a manner. Other amenities include a wide variety of luxury items, specific to each model.

For a great sea-going vacation in the Virgin Islands territory, treat yourself to a chartered yacht, and enjoy the best of all possible worlds.