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Sailing in the Caribbean was one of my best experiences. The weather is usually perfect for sailing, the beaches are beautiful, and the locals are friendly. There are many different islands to visit, each with its own glamor and charm, and mooring a boat there can be a magical experience.
The costs of mooring a boat in the Caribbean vary depending on the island, location, size, and type of boat. The cost ranges from $0.65 to $4 per foot per day. A 40ft boat will cost between $26 and $160 per day and between $780 and $4800 per month without any discounts. On the other hand, anchoring is in most places free of charge.
In this post, I want to give you a taste of what it’s like sailing in the Caribbean. I’ll discuss typical costs associated with mooring sailboats, tips for living on a sailboat, and additional information you should know before you plan your trip.
Cost To Moor a Boat in the Caribbean
There are several things to consider when budgeting for a boat mooring in the Caribbean. The cost of the mooring itself will be one of your primary expenses, and this vary depending on the location.
The cost of mooring a boat in the Caribbean can end up being relatively expensive, especially when considering other costs such as repair fees and monthly expenses. However, there are a few places that are cheaper than others, so you’ll be sure to find something within your budget.
In addition, you will need to budget for the following:
- Boat insurance
- Repairs
- Dockage fees
It is also essential to consider the time of year that you will be visiting. The high season for boating in the Caribbean is from December to April, and prices will be higher during these months.
Generally speaking, the cost of mooring a boat in the Caribbean ranges from $100 to $300 per day, depending on the location and other factors. Some marinas offer lower rates for longer-term parking, while others charge more for prime locations.
| Marina Location | Cost (per foot) | Amenities |
| Antigua Yacht Club Marina, Antigua and Barbuda | $2.00 – $3.50/ft | Hotel Lodging Fuel Provisions Restaurants/Bars WiFi |
| Davis Harbor Marina, Bahamas | $1.90/ft | Fuel Provisions Laundry/Bathhouse WiFi |
| Romero Bay Resort and Marina, Bahamas | $4.00/ft | Hotel Lodging Health Club Fuel Provisions Restaurants/Bars WiFi |
| Bimini Cove Resort and Marina, Bahamas | $2.25/ft | Hotel Lodging Transportation Laundry/Bathhouse Beaches Floating Docks Fuel Provisions Restaurants/Bars WiFi |
| Little Farmer’s Cay Yacht Club and Marina, Bahamas | $2.00 – $3.50/ft | Security Hotel Lodging Transportation Laundry/Bathhouse Beaches Fuel Provisions Restaurants/Bars WiFi |
| Palm Cay Marina, Bahamas | $2.00 – $3.00/ft | Town Nearby Currency Exchange Disability Access Hotel Lodging Transportation Rental Laundry/Bathhouse Beaches Fuel Provisions Restaurants/Bars WiFi |
| LightHouse Marina – BVI, British Virgin Islands | $1.50 – $2.50/ft | Restrooms Fuel Provisions Restaurants/Bars WiFi |
| Nassau Yacht Haven, Bahamas | $2.50/ft | Town Nearby Medical Facilities Hotel Lodging Fuel Provisions Restaurants/Bars WiFi |
| Marina Puerto Bahia, Dominican Republic | $1.25 – $1.75/ft | Town Nearby Currency Exchange Disability Access Hotel Lodging Transportation Rental Laundry/Bathhouse Beaches Fuel Provisions Restaurants/Bars WiFi |
| Inner Harbor Marina, British Virgin Islands | $1.50/ft | Town Nearby Boat Service Hotel Lodging Fuel Provisions Restaurants/Bars WiFi |
| K11 Private Dock – La Marina – Casa de Campo, Dominican Republic | $225 per night (fixed price) | Town Nearby Security Medical Facilities Beaches Restaurants/Bars |
| Bahamas Private Boat Slip, Bahamas | $4.00/ft | Town Nearby Hotel Lodging Disability Access Security Medical Facilities Beaches Restaurants/Bars |
| Antigua Slipway, Antigua | $0.65/ft | Shuttle to beach bar Low cost contractors |
What Size Should a Boat Be When Sailing in the Caribbean?
For sailing the Caribbean you need a boat that is 35 – 45ft in length. Due to the close proximity between safe harbors, the main reason to get a bigger boat would be for the comfort of the crew. 35 -45ft is enough to handle the seas, bring adequate supplies and be reasonably comfortable.
Of course, you can travel the Caribbean on something way smaller, there are even people who go from Miami to bimini by Hobie cats that are 16ft long. this is nothing that I recommend, but it is possible. on the other hand, if you are looking for a pleasant experience 35-45ft will do the trick.
The size of your boat also depends on your budget and how much experience you have sailing. If you’re a beginner, it might be a good idea to start out with a smaller boat and once you gain enough experience you can transition beyond the 45ft.
In general, most sailors would agree that a bigger boat is not always better. In fact, a smaller boat can often be more maneuverable and provide a more intimate sailing experience. It’s also important to remember that the Caribbean is a vast area with a variety of different sailing conditions so a small boat with a small draft can be very beneficial in some areas.
How Much Does It Cost To Live on a Sailboat in the Caribbean?
It costs between $600 and $2000 to live on a sailboat in the Caribbean, depending on the boat and its location.
The cost of living on a sailboat in the Caribbean varies depending on the size and type of boat, the location, and the monthly expenses of the person sailing it.
Additional costs due to the following can quickly rack up, costing a few thousand bucks.
- Repairs
- Ship maintenance
- Fuel
- Groceries
- Supplies
- Other provisions
To fully understand how much it costs to maintain and live on a boat, I suggest you read one of these posts:
- How much does it cost to maintain a boat?
- Catamaran insurance costs with real numbers
- The cost of chartering a catamaran
Things You Should Know About Sailing in the Caribbean
The Caribbean is a popular sailing destination, and for a good reason. The waters are calm, and the scenery is beautiful. However, there are a few things you need to know before you set sail in the Caribbean.
- Risk of hurricanes. The hurricane season runs from June to November, and it’s essential to keep an eye on the weather forecast during that time. If a storm is headed your way, you need to be prepared to evacuate.
- Risk of piracy. There have been several cases of piracy in the Caribbean. Theft is also a problem in some areas, so it’s essential to be aware of the dangers and take precautions. Thieves often target boats that are moored or anchored in harbors with few security measures.
Conclusion
In this article, I’ve compiled a list of average rates from some of the most popular destinations. So, whether you’re already planning your trip or just dreaming about it, hopefully, this article has given you a better idea of how much it will cost you to moor your boat in the Caribbean.