Quick Answer
A St Barths yacht charter usually starts in Simpson Bay on St Martin, about two hours from Gustavia, and often includes Anguilla. The season runs from December to April, and Christmas and New Year in Gustavia are the most sought-after weeks of the Caribbean year, often with a minimum stay of 10 nights.
St Barths, or Saint-Barthélemy, is the most glamorous island in the Caribbean. Its small harbour fills with superyachts every winter, its beaches are among the most beautiful in the region and its restaurants bring the elegance of the French Riviera to the tropics. A St Barths yacht charter lets you enjoy all of this from the comfort of your own private yacht.
Why Charter a Yacht in St Barths?
St Barths is small, only about 25 square kilometres, but it offers remarkable variety. Lively beach clubs sit a few minutes from wild, empty bays, and the island’s French heritage shows in its food, wine and relaxed sense of style.
- Exclusive atmosphere: no high-rise hotels, no cruise-ship crowds, just villas, boutiques and yachts.
- Beautiful beaches: from busy St Jean to untouched Saline and Gouverneur.
- Perfect location: St Martin and Anguilla are only a few hours away, so you can see three islands in one week.
Getting There: St Martin or St Barths?
Most St Barths charters start in Simpson Bay on neighbouring St Martin. Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) has direct flights from the US East Coast and Europe, and the marina is only about ten minutes away. The crossing to St Barths takes around two hours on a motor yacht.
If you prefer to start in Gustavia, a short connecting flight or helicopter transfer from St Martin brings you to St Barths in minutes. The island’s tiny airport, with its famous steep landing over the hill, is an experience in itself.
Highlights of a Week Around St Barths
Gustavia
The capital is a small, red-roofed harbour town with Swedish-era buildings, designer boutiques and some of the best restaurants in the Caribbean. In season, its quay is lined with superyachts. Shell Beach, a short walk from the harbour, is perfect for a morning swim.
Anse de Colombier
This protected marine reserve on the island’s north-west tip can only be reached by sea or on foot. It is one of the most peaceful anchorages in the region, with clear water where sea turtles are often seen.
St Jean, Saline and Gouverneur
St Jean is the island’s lively beach, with stylish beach clubs and lunch spots on the sand. Saline and Gouverneur, on the south coast, are wide natural beaches without buildings, ideal for a quiet afternoon.
Île Fourchue and Anguilla
On the way to or from St Martin, the uninhabited Île Fourchue offers a sheltered bay for swimming. A little further north, Anguilla is famous for powder-soft beaches such as Meads Bay and Shoal Bay.
Christmas and New Year in St Barths
The two weeks around Christmas and New Year are the high point of the Caribbean season. Gustavia becomes one of the most famous New Year destinations in the world, with fireworks over a harbour full of yachts. These weeks are in very high demand – see our mega yacht collection for the yachts best suited to a St Barths New Year: the best yachts are often booked a year ahead and many require a minimum charter of 10 nights or more.
Sample Week: St Martin, St Barths & Anguilla
| Day | Where | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Simpson Bay, St Martin | Embarkation, welcome lunch on board |
| 2–3 | Anguilla | Prickly Pear Cays, Meads Bay, Shoal Bay |
| 4 | Île Fourchue & Colombier | Swimming, snorkelling with turtles |
| 5–6 | Gustavia & St Jean | Shopping, beach clubs, dinner ashore |
| 7 | Pinel Island & Grand Case | Beach afternoon, farewell dinner |
| 8 | Simpson Bay | Breakfast and disembarkation |
Read more about the region in our complete guide to Caribbean yacht charter.
Yachts for a St Barths charter
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time for a St Barths yacht charter?
December to April offers dry, sunny weather and calm seas. Christmas, New Year and February are the busiest and most exclusive weeks.
Can large superyachts berth in Gustavia?
Gustavia has limited quay space, so the largest yachts often anchor just outside the harbour and use the tender to go ashore. Your captain arranges this in advance.
How far is St Barths from St Martin?
About 15 nautical miles, roughly two hours on a motor yacht, or a 10–15 minute flight.
Can we combine St Barths with other islands?
Yes. St Martin and Anguilla are close by, and a one-way charter can also include Antigua, Nevis and St Kitts.
How much does a St Barths yacht charter cost?
It depends on the yacht and the week. Large motor yachts on our list start from around $250,000 per week plus APA, and festive weeks are priced higher. Smaller yachts are available for much less.
Dreaming of a week in St Barths? Explore our Caribbean yachts or send us your dates, and we will find the perfect yacht for you.