Buying a Catamaran to Charter in the USVI or BVI: Best Models, Income, Management & Marketing
Owning a catamaran in the Virgin Islands is a dream for many. Putting that catamaran into charter can help make it a sustainable one. Charter income can offset the costs of ownership, keep the yacht maintained and used, and give owners a stake in one of the most celebrated sailing destinations in the world.
But a successful charter yacht starts long before the first guest steps aboard. It starts with choosing the right boat. The catamaran you buy shapes what you can charge, which guests you attract, how brokers present you, and how well the yacht holds its value.
This guide covers the most popular catamarans for charter, including Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Leopard, Bali, and Sunreef, plus how charter income works, whether to base your yacht in the USVI or BVI, what a management company does, and how to market your yacht so brokers and guests choose it.
Quick Answer: The most popular catamarans for charter in the Virgin Islands come from Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Leopard, Bali, and Sunreef. Lagoon is the most chartered catamaran brand in the world, Leopard is known for rugged, charter-ready designs, Bali for open-plan living, Fountaine Pajot for sailing performance and eco-friendly systems, and Sunreef for superyacht-level luxury. Once you've chosen your yacht, success depends on your charter model, where you base the boat, your management approach, and professional marketing. MBVI can recommend a trusted yacht management company in the Virgin Islands and create the photos, video, and virtual tour brokers use to book your yacht.
Why Catamarans Dominate Virgin Islands Charter
Catamarans are the yacht of choice for most Virgin Islands charter guests, and for good reason:
Space: Wide decks, large salons, and private cabins in each hull give guests room to spread out.
Stability: Two hulls mean less heeling and a smoother ride, which first-time sailors appreciate.
Shallow draft: Catamarans can anchor close to beaches and in shallow bays throughout the islands.
Privacy: Cabins are separated in each hull, ideal for families and groups of couples.
Charter demand: Catamarans consistently book well, making them attractive for owners seeking reliable charter income.
Across brands, the most popular charter size is about 46 to 55 feet, a sweet spot for families and groups, while larger catamarans dominate the luxury crewed charter market.
The Most Popular Catamarans for Charter
Fountaine Pajot Catamarans
Best for: Sailing performance, eco-friendly features, and French design
French builder Fountaine Pajot is known for catamarans that sail well while still offering comfortable charter layouts. The brand has led the way in energy efficiency, with substantial solar capacity and hybrid propulsion available on models like the Elba 45.
Popular models for charter:
Isla 40 and Astrea 42: Popular cruising and charter models
New 41 and New 44: Recent launches entering charter fleets
Elba 45: Available with hybrid propulsion
Tanna 47: A flagship under 50 feet, focused on energy autonomy
Aura 51 and Samana 59: Larger premium models
Alegria 67 and Thira 80: Luxury crewed charter catamarans, with the Thira 80 the brand's largest "super catamaran"
Why owners choose Fountaine Pajot: A reputation for sailing ability, eco-conscious systems that appeal to today's guests, and elegant design.
Searching for one? Fountaine Pajot catamarans for sale in the Caribbean range from cruising models to luxury crewed yachts.
Lagoon Catamarans
Best for: Proven charter performance, family comfort, and strong resale value
Lagoon, part of Groupe Beneteau, is the most chartered catamaran brand in the world. Its boats are known for generous interior volume, comfortable layouts, and a global service network, which makes them a common sight in Virgin Islands charter fleets. The Lagoon 380 became one of the most popular catamarans ever built, with nearly 1,000 hulls produced over a 20-year run.
Popular models for charter:
Lagoon 40 and 42: Versatile all-rounders and some of the best-selling catamarans in the world
Lagoon 43 and 46: Newer family favorites, with the 46 among the most popular choices for family charters
Lagoon 51 and 55: A step up in space for premium crewed charters
Lagoon 60 and Seventy 7: Luxury crewed charter catamarans
Why owners choose Lagoon: Strong charter demand, widespread familiarity among brokers and charter companies, and an active resale market.
Searching for one? Lagoon catamarans for sale are widely available, including new models and ex-charter boats.
Bali Catamarans
Best for: Open-plan social living and maximum outdoor space
Bali catamarans, from the Catana Group, take a different approach to design. Instead of a traditional trampoline, Bali models feature a solid forward cockpit, a huge forward sunbed, and an open-plan living concept that blurs the line between inside and out. The result feels like a floating villa, which charter guests love.
Popular models for charter:
Bali Catspace: A compact model with big-boat living space
Bali 4.6 and 4.8: Popular mid-size models in both private and charter fleets
Bali 5.4: A favorite for crewed charters in the BVI
Bali 5.8: A premium option for luxury crewed charter
Why owners choose Bali: Social, open layouts that photograph beautifully and appeal to groups and families.
Searching for one? Bali catamarans for sale are increasingly popular among owners planning crewed charter programs.
Sunreef Catamarans
Best for: Superyacht-level luxury and high-end crewed charter
Polish builder Sunreef Yachts represents the top tier of luxury catamarans, with models from 60 to more than 160 feet and a client list that includes well-known athletes and celebrities. Its Eco line integrates solar panels into the hull and superstructure, and the Sunreef 80 is the brand's bestseller and the model most often found on the charter market.
Popular models for charter:
Sunreef 60 Eco: Luxury with integrated solar power
Sunreef Ultima 55: A performance-focused crewed charter catamaran
Sunreef 70 and 80: Luxury crewed charter favorites
Sunreef 100: A flagship superyacht catamaran
Why owners choose Sunreef: Luxury, customization, and eco innovation for the top end of the crewed charter market.
Searching for one? Sunreef catamarans for sale command premium prices and appeal to owners targeting the luxury charter market.
Leopard Catamarans
Best for: Rugged, charter-ready construction and a strong used market
Leopard catamarans are built by Robertson and Caine in Cape Town, South Africa, and designed by Simonis-Voogd naval architects. They're known for sturdy construction, practical layouts, and features designed for life in the islands. Leopard has a strong presence in the charter market, which means a steady supply of well-maintained used boats.
Popular models for charter:
Leopard 42: A popular touring and party boat
Leopard 45 and 50: Spacious charter favorites
Leopard 46 Powercat and Leopard 53 Powercat: Power catamaran options for owners who prefer motoring
Why owners choose Leopard: Durability, charter-focused design, and a robust market of new and ex-charter boats.
Searching for one? Leopard catamarans for sale, including ex-charter models, are a popular entry point for new owners.
Other Brands to Consider
Excess (Groupe Beneteau): Performance-oriented catamarans, including hybrid models
Nautitech: Known for sailing performance and helm positions designed for sailors
Catana and Outremer: Performance cruising catamarans popular with experienced sailors
Tips for Buying a Catamaran for Charter
Charter version vs. owner's version. Many catamarans come in a charter layout, with more cabins and bathrooms, or an owner's version, with a full-hull master suite. More cabins can mean more guests and higher charter income, while an owner's version suits more personal use.
New vs. ex-charter. Ex-charter catamarans leaving fleet programs can offer good value but may show more wear. A thorough marine survey is essential.
Plan for crew. If you're planning crewed charters, consider crew quarters, galley layout, and space for a captain and chef.
Think about guests. Water toys, shade, outdoor dining space, and air conditioning all affect what guests will pay.
Consider resale. Popular brands and models with strong charter demand tend to hold their value and sell more easily.
Ask about buying in the USVI. The U.S. Virgin Islands is promoted as a place to buy and sell yachts with no sales tax. Confirm what applies to your purchase with a broker and tax professional.
Get professional advice. Work with a reputable yacht broker, surveyor, and maritime professional before you buy.
Choosing a Charter Model
Crewed Charters
On a crewed charter, guests book the yacht with a captain and chef, usually for a week, with meals, drinks, and water toys included. Crewed catamarans are a hallmark of the Virgin Islands fleet, and many are run by captain-and-chef couples.
Weekly rates for crewed charters in the BVI vary widely, from roughly $13,000 to more than $95,000 for the whole yacht, depending on size, season, and level of luxury.
Bareboat Charters
On a bareboat charter, guests sail the yacht themselves. Many bareboat yachts are placed into management programs with established charter fleets, which handle bookings, maintenance, and guest services.
Day Charters
Some owners use their boats for half-day and full-day trips, snorkel tours, and private outings.
The Baths, Virgin Gorda, BVI
USVI or BVI: Where Should Your Yacht Be Based?
Based in the USVI
A yacht based in St. Thomas or St. John operates under U.S. rules, and guests chartering within the USVI don't need a passport. St. Thomas is also home to the annual USVI Charter Yacht Show, where brokers tour yachts and meet crews.
Good to know: USVI-based yachts that take guests into BVI waters are considered foreign-based charter vessels there. Since the BVI amended its charter licensing rules in June 2025, foreign-based charter vessels pay $16 per person per day in BVI cruising permit fees, compared with $6 for BVI-based vessels, and operators may also need BVI commercial licenses.
Based in the BVI
The BVI is one of the world's largest charter destinations and the base for many bareboat fleets and crewed yachts. Home-based vessels pay lower cruising permit fees but operate under BVI regulations, licensing, and immigration rules.
The bottom line: Where you base your yacht affects your fees, itineraries, guest travel, and regulatory requirements. Discuss your options with a management company or maritime professional.
Owner-Operated vs. Professional Management
Owner-Operated
Some owners manage their charter business themselves, handling bookings, broker relationships, crew, maintenance, and marketing. It offers more control but takes significant time.
Professional Yacht Management
A yacht management company typically handles:
Charter bookings and broker relationships
Crew hiring and oversight
Maintenance, repairs, and inspections
Accounting and owner reporting
Regulatory compliance and permits
Hurricane season planning
Marketing, including listings, brochures, and broker outreach
Need a Yacht Management Company in the Virgin Islands?
Choosing the right management company is one of the most important decisions you'll make as a charter owner. MBVI works closely with yacht owners, captains, and management companies across the Virgin Islands and can recommend a trusted yacht management company that fits your yacht, your goals, and how hands-on you want to be.
Ask MBVI for a Yacht Management Recommendation →
For more, see Yacht Management in the Virgin Islands: What Owners Should Expect.
Understanding Charter Income and Costs
What Drives Income
Your weekly charter rate, based on the yacht's size, condition, amenities, and crew
How many weeks you book, especially during high season, which typically runs from December through April
Your reputation with brokers, built through crew quality, reviews, and repeat bookings
Your marketing, including photos, video, and listings
Common Operating Costs
Crew salaries
Management fees or commissions
Broker commissions
Maintenance, repairs, and haul-outs
Insurance, including hurricane season coverage
Dockage and mooring
Fuel and water
Permits, licenses, and cruising fees
Marketing and media
On crewed charters, guests typically tip the crew 15–20 percent of the charter fee.
Taxes
Charter income, depreciation, and business use can have significant tax implications, depending on how the yacht is owned, registered, and used. Always consult a qualified tax professional.
Rules and Requirements to Know
This is a general overview, not legal advice. Confirm details with a maritime attorney, management company, or the relevant authorities.
Licensed captains: Captains carrying paying passengers in U.S. waters need the appropriate U.S. Coast Guard credential.
Passenger limits and inspections: The number of paying guests depends on the yacht's documentation and whether it's U.S. Coast Guard inspected.
Vessel documentation: Where a yacht was built and how it's flagged can affect whether it can carry paying passengers in U.S. waters, and some vessels require additional waivers. This is especially important when buying a foreign-built catamaran.
BVI requirements: Charter vessels in BVI waters need the appropriate cruising permits and commercial approvals.
Insurance: Charter use typically requires commercial coverage and a hurricane season plan.
Marketing Your Charter Catamaran
Brokers Sell With Your Media
Most crewed charters in the Virgin Islands are booked through charter brokers, who present yachts to clients using e-brochures, photos, video, and crew profiles. If your media doesn't stand out, brokers have dozens of other catamarans to recommend.
Attend the USVI Charter Yacht Show
The USVI Charter Yacht Show, held each November at IGY's Yacht Haven Grande in St. Thomas, brings brokers aboard to tour yachts and meet crews. In 2026, it takes place November 14–17. Learn more in our guide to the USVI Charter Yacht Show 2026.
Show Off What Makes Your Catamaran Special
Every brand has signature features worth highlighting: a Bali's forward cockpit and open-plan salon, a Lagoon's spacious interior, a Fountaine Pajot's solar arrays, a Leopard's practical layout, or a Sunreef's superyacht finishes. Professional media should capture exactly what sets your yacht apart.
Invest in Professional Media
A complete charter yacht shoot should include:
HDR interior and exterior photos
Aerial photos and video
Crew photos
A video walkthrough
A 360° virtual tour
Reels for social media
MBVI's Ocean Bundle for charter yachts (non-managed) includes all of these in a single shoot: 45 HDR photos, crew photos, a 360° virtual tour, a video walkthrough, 3 aerial photos, 2 aerial video clips, and 2 Reels. For managed yachts, MBVI also works with yacht management companies on fleet media.
Learn more in our guide to a Charter Yacht Photoshoot in the Virgin Islands.
Build Your Own Presence
A custom website, SEO, social media, and targeted advertising help your yacht attract direct inquiries and stay top of mind with brokers and past guests.
Steps to Buy a Catamaran and Put It Into Charter
Define your goals, including income, personal use, and how hands-on you want to be.
Choose your charter model, whether crewed, bareboat, or day charter.
Choose the right catamaran, considering brand, size, layout, and resale value.
Work with a broker and surveyor before you buy.
Decide where to base your yacht, in the USVI or BVI.
Choose your management approach. MBVI can recommend a management company.
Confirm regulatory requirements for your yacht, crew, and itineraries.
Set up insurance, accounting, and tax planning with qualified professionals.
Invest in professional media, including photos, aerials, video, and a virtual tour.
Connect with brokers and attend the USVI Charter Yacht Show.
How MBVI Helps Charter Yacht Owners
MEDIABOOST.VI is a St. Thomas–based media and marketing agency with a deep understanding of the charter yacht industry.
Yacht management recommendations: MBVI can connect you with a trusted management company in the Virgin Islands.
The Ocean Bundle: Complete charter yacht media in one shoot, including photos, aerials, crew photos, video walkthrough, 360° virtual tour, and Reels.
Licensed aerial media: FAA Part 107 certified and USVI DLCA licensed.
Custom yacht websites and SEO: A sleek online home for your yacht that ranks in search results.
Social media and paid advertising: Targeted campaigns that keep your yacht in front of potential guests.
Proven yacht work: MBVI's yacht photography and video are showcased on websites including Paradise Yacht Management and Charter Smarter.
Buying a catamaran for charter?
Ask for a Yacht Management Recommendation →
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best catamaran for charter in the Virgin Islands?
The most popular catamarans for charter come from Lagoon, Fountaine Pajot, Leopard, Bali, and Sunreef. Lagoon is the most chartered catamaran brand in the world, while Bali is known for open-plan living, Leopard for rugged charter-ready design, Fountaine Pajot for sailing performance and eco features, and Sunreef for luxury crewed charter.
What size catamaran is best for charter?
The most popular charter size is about 40 to 46 feet, which suits families and groups. Larger catamarans, from about 50 feet and up, are popular for luxury crewed charters.
Are Lagoon catamarans good for charter?
Yes. Lagoon is the most chartered catamaran brand in the world, known for spacious interiors, comfortable layouts, and strong resale value. Models like the Lagoon 42, 43, and 46 are popular charter choices.
What makes Bali catamarans different?
Bali catamarans feature a solid forward cockpit instead of a trampoline, a large forward sunbed, and an open-plan living space that connects the interior and exterior, creating a floating-villa feel.
Should I buy a new or ex-charter catamaran?
Ex-charter catamarans can offer good value but may show more wear, while new catamarans offer the latest features and warranties. A professional marine survey is essential either way.
Can MBVI recommend a yacht management company in the Virgin Islands?
Yes. MBVI works closely with yacht owners, captains, and management companies across the Virgin Islands and can recommend a trusted management company that fits your yacht and goals.
Should I base my charter yacht in the USVI or BVI?
It depends on your goals. USVI-based yachts operate under U.S. rules and pay foreign-based fees when entering BVI waters, while BVI-based yachts pay lower BVI cruising fees but operate under BVI regulations.
Are there tax benefits to buying a yacht for charter?
There can be, but tax treatment depends on how the yacht is owned, registered, and used. Always consult a qualified tax professional.
