Chartering the Spanish Virgin Islands: Unspoiled Beauty and Effortless Cruising

If you’re looking for a Caribbean yacht charter that feels untouched, authentic, and just a little off the radar, the Spanish Virgin Islands might be your perfect escape. Located just east of Puerto Rico and west of the US and British Virgin Islands, this small but spectacular group of islands offers all the beauty of the Virgin Islands with fewer crowds and a slower pace.

From the lush hills of Culebra to the wild beaches of Vieques, a charter through the Spanish Virgin Islands is all about calm anchorages, turquoise water, and the kind of peace that only comes when you feel like you have the place to yourself.

Where Are the Spanish Virgin Islands?

Also known as the Puerto Rican Virgin Islands, the Spanish Virgin Islands are part of the U.S. territory of Puerto Rico. The two main islands you’ll visit on a charter are:

• Culebra

• Vieques

Smaller surrounding islets like Culebrita, Palomino, and Icacos make for perfect day stops with sandy beaches and clear water. The best part? They're all just a short cruise apart, making this a relaxed and easy charter destination.

When to Go

The best time to charter in the Spanish Virgin Islands is from November through June, when the weather is warm, dry, and breezy. These islands lie outside the typical hurricane belt, making them a safer bet for shoulder season travel as well.

Highlights of a Spanish Virgin Islands Charter:

Culebra: Laid-Back Charm and Perfect Beaches: Culebra is peaceful, uncrowded, and full of natural beauty. Flamenco Beach is one of the most famous beaches in the Caribbean — a wide crescent of white sand and brilliant turquoise water, ideal for swimming and paddleboarding. For a more private feel, anchor near Tamarindo or Carlos Rosario for snorkeling among sea turtles and reef fish.

Don’t miss Culebrita, a nearby uninhabited island with a picture-perfect beach, a short hike to a historic lighthouse, and natural tide pools perfect for a refreshing dip.

Vieques: Wild and Beautiful: Known for its untamed landscapes and wild horses roaming freely, Vieques offers a unique blend of natural beauty and laid-back island life. The island’s southern anchorages are calm and protected, perfect for overnight stays.

One of the most magical experiences here is visiting the bioluminescent bay near Esperanza, where the water glows at night thanks to naturally occurring microorganisms. Kayaking or tendering through the glowing water is a memory you won’t forget.

Spend your days beach hopping along the island’s southern coast, snorkeling off your yacht, or exploring the island’s hiking trails and beach bars.

Palomino and Icacos: Day Stops from Fajardo: Closer to the mainland, Palomino Island and Icacos are great first or last-day stops when starting or ending your charter from Fajardo, Puerto Rico. These tiny islands have postcard-worthy beaches, shallow snorkeling spots, and great swimming areas — perfect for enjoying a slow, sunny day on the water.

Activities to Enjoy on Charter

Snorkeling and Paddleboarding: The reefs around Culebra and Culebrita offer great visibility and calm conditions. Paddleboards are perfect for exploring mangroves and inlets right from your yacht.

Beach Picnics and Sunset Dining: The beaches here are often empty, which makes them perfect for a private beach setup. Your crew can organize a sunset cocktail hour or a beach picnic with no one else in sight.

Hiking and Exploring: From old lighthouses to quiet hiking trails, there’s plenty to explore on shore. Culebrita’s lighthouse offers panoramic views and is a short hike from the beach.

Bioluminescent Bay Experience: In Vieques, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the bioluminescent bay at night. It’s one of the brightest in the world, and the glow is surreal.

What Makes the Spanish Virgin Islands Special?

This charter is for travelers who love natural beauty, quiet anchorages, and easy island-hopping without the busy pace of more developed destinations. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups of friends who want to unplug, slow down, and enjoy simple moments surrounded by extraordinary scenery.

The distances are short, the water is warm, and the vibe is pure Caribbean — relaxed, friendly, and unforgettable.

Interested in chartering the Spanish Virgin Islands?

We’ll help you find the perfect yacht and build a custom itinerary that lets you explore this hidden gem in comfort, style, and total peace.