Saint Barts

Indulge in the exclusive allure of Saint Barts, a chic and sophisticated island renowned for its designer boutiques, gourmet restaurants, and glamorous atmosphere. Discover pristine white-sand beaches, secluded coves, and world-class marinas. Experience the epitome of luxury yachting in the Caribbean, where French elegance meets laid-back island charm, attracting discerning travelers seeking an unforgettable escape.

Chartering a Yacht in Saint Barts

Saint Barth exudes an air of understated glamour and sophisticated charm. Its volcanic peaks give way to pristine white-sand beaches, while designer boutiques and world-class dining establishments offer a touch of European chic. This French administered island is a magnet for the discerning traveller, blending natural beauty with a vibrant, luxurious lifestyle. Saint Barth is predominantly preferred as a stop-over island along an itinerary in the Leeward Islands due to its limited marina space and high demand, making it less practical as a primary charter starting point compared to larger hubs like Saint Martin or Antigua.

Why go there?

A yacht charter to Saint Barth promises an unforgettable blend of relaxation and indulgence. Don't miss anchoring off Colombier Beach, accessible primarily by boat or hike, for secluded tranquility and excellent snorkeling with abundant marine life. Explore the bustling capital, Gustavia, with its duty-free shopping, charming Swedish architecture, and impressive superyachts. For vibrant beach club vibes, head to Nikki Beach on Saint Jean, or the chic Shellona on Shell Beach.

Saint Barth also hosts renowned annual events that can elevate your charter experience:

  • Saint Barth Music Festival (January): Showcasing jazz and classical music.
  • Saint Barth Bucket Regatta (March): A spectacular event featuring superyachts racing around the island.
  • Les Voiles de Saint Barth (April): Another thrilling sailing regatta with a festive atmosphere.
  • Saint Barth Gourmet Festival (November): Attracting world-renowned chefs for culinary delights.
  • New Year's Eve Celebration: Famous for its extravagant parties and fireworks in Gustavia Harbor.

How to get there?

Gustaf III Airport (SBH), often referred to as Saint Barthélemy Airport is the only airport on the island. Due to its short runway, it cannot accommodate large international jets. Instead many visitors fly into Saint Martin (SXM) and take a short ferry or a commuter flight to Saint Barth.

Scheduled flights typically arrive from other Caribbean hubs, including:

  • Sint Maarten (Princess Juliana International Airport - SXM)
  • San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU)
  • Antigua (ANU)
  • Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe (PTP)
  • Anguilla (AXA)

Main international and local airlines serving these routes include Tradewind Aviation, Winair, Air Antilles, Air Caraïbes, and Anguilla Air Services.

Approaching by yacht:

Here are approximate distances and average sailing times from other main islands (assuming a moderate cruising speed of 5-7 knots):

  • From USVI (St. Thomas): Approximately 95-100 nautical miles (176-185 km) - Average sailing time: 16-20 hours
  • From BVI (Tortola): Approximately 90 nautical miles (167 km) - Average sailing time: 15-18 hours
  • From Saint Kitts: Approximately 36 nautical miles (67 km) - Average sailing time: 6-8 hours
  • From Saint Martin (Simpson Bay): Approximately 22 nautical miles (35 km) - Average sailing time: 3.5-5 hours.
  • From Antigua: Approximately 75 nautical miles (140 km) - Average sailing time: 12-15 hours

Marina facilities:

The primary marina on Saint Barth is Gustavia Harbor, located in the capital. It's renowned for accommodating a vast array of vessels, including superyachts.

Services typically provided include:

  • Docking and Mooring: Berths for various sizes, including mega yachts over 60 meters, and secure mooring buoys.
  • Utilities: Fresh water, shore power (electricity), and high-speed Wi-Fi.
  • Fueling Station: Dedicated fuel dock for diesel and gasoline.
  • Waste Management: Eco-friendly disposal for oil, sewage, and general waste, with recycling facilities.
  • Customs and Immigration: On-site office for streamlined entry and exit procedures.
  • Repair and Maintenance: On-site facilities and local partnerships for mechanical, electrical, and structural needs.
  • Security: 24/7 surveillance and access control.

It is highly advisable to book berths in advance, especially during peak season, due to high demand.

What food to expect?

Saint Barth's culinary scene is a delightful fusion of classic French gastronomy and fresh Caribbean flavors. Expect exquisite fine dining experiences, often with a focus on fresh seafood. Local specialties include Langouste Grillée (grilled spiny lobster), prepared simply to highlight its sweet flesh, and Accras de Morue (salt cod fritters), a popular appetizer. Creole Mahi-Mahi and Conch and Christophine Gratin offer a taste of traditional island cuisine. Many restaurants are high-quality, with some of the best being found in Gustavia. Several establishments like Shellona, Nikki Beach, Sand Bar at Eden Rock, and Le Sereno Al Mare are directly accessible by tender from your yacht, offering a luxurious "toes-in-the-sand" or waterfront dining experience. Even those not directly on the water, like Bonito or Bagatelle in Gustavia, are a short walk or taxi ride from the harbor.

Provisioning advice:

While the main BVI hubs like Road Town on Tortola or Spanish Town on Virgin Gorda offer extensive provisioning options with large supermarkets (e.g., Riteway Food Markets or Buck's Food Market ), Saint Barth has excellent, albeit more expensive, choices. For fresh produce, meats, and specialty items, there are several well-stocked grocery stores in Gustavia, such as JoJo Supermarket and Match. There are also high-end delis and gourmet food shops offering imported delicacies. For large-scale yacht provisioning, local agencies like Premium IV St. Barts specialize in sourcing and delivering a wide range of goods, including perishable items, organic produce, fresh local fish, and even specific European or North American products, directly to your yacht. It's recommended to coordinate with these services for convenience.

Language and currency:

The main language spoken in Saint Barth is French. However, English is widely spoken and understood in tourist areas, especially within the yachting community, hotels, and restaurants.

The official currency is the Euro (€). However, the US Dollar ($) is also widely accepted throughout the island, particularly in shops and restaurants catering to tourists.

Visa requirements:

  • US Passport Holders: No visa is required for stays up to 90 days.
  • Canada Passport Holders: No visa is required for stays up to 90 days.
  • UK Passport Holders: No visa is required for stays up to 90 days per 180-day period.
  • EU Passport Holders: No visa is required for stays up to 90 days.
  • France Passport Holders: have the right of free movement and establishment, just as they would have in mainland France or any other French region. They do not need a visa for any duration of stay.

It's always advisable to check the latest entry requirements before travel, as conditions can change. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay and you have proof of onward/return tickets and sufficient funds.

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