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Will you be embarking on a tropical vacation to the Virgin Islands? Do your vacation plans also include a private or shared charter on a powerboat or catamaran to explore St. Thomas, St. John, Water Island and the British Virgin Islands? To help you make the most of your vacation, we’ve put together this list of packing essentials you may want to consider bringing.

Lightweight Clothing

Consider packing breathable and lightweight clothing, suitable for hot and humid weather. Include items like shorts, skirts, t-shirts, tank tops, sundresses and lightweight pants. The climate in the Virgin Islands stays relatively constant year-round with temperatures ranging from 75-85 °F.

Swimsuits and Beach Gear

Packing one or a few swim suits or swim trunks will help you to make the most of our beautiful beaches and fun water activities, like snorkeling. When you’re not on the beach, cover-ups or proper attire are required over your swimsuits at all times in the Virgin Islands.

Joining us on a charter? If you have your own snorkeling gear, we welcome it aboard – or if you prefer to save space in your luggage, all Seas the Day Charters USVI powerboats and catamarans are equipped with snorkeling gear for your use. Please know our charters do not include towels; if your accommodations do not provide any we recommend bringing your own.

Footwear

A versatile selection of footwear is essential for a tropical vacation. Planning to hike or explore on land? Consider comfortable walking shoes or sandals that are already broken in. If you’ll be joining us on a private charter or half day semi-private charter, we lead barefoot cruises. Your shoes will be collected before you board and returned as you disembark.

Sun Protection

Sun protection is very important in the Virgin Islands! Pack a reef safe, non oil-based sunscreen with a high SPF rating. In the Virgin Islands, sunscreens with the three Os (Oxybenzone, Octinoxate and Octocrylene) are banned. We also recommend sunglasses with UV protection, hats and long-sleeve rash guards for added sun protection.

At the Seas the Day Charters USVI office, you will find Caribbean Sol, a natural and marine friendly sunscreen option, long-sleeve lightweight rash guards and hats available for purchase.

Passports to Visit the British Virgin Islands

To visit the BVI, everyone, including US citizens, need to have a passport that is valid for a minimum of 6 months upon entry. Visitors from some countries might require a visa to enter the BVI; if in doubt, please check with the BVI tourist board or contact the nearest British Embassy. If your adventure will only be to the US Virgin Islands, including St. Thomas, St. John and Water Island, US citizens are not required to carry a passport. We encourage all nationalities to bring passports if traveling in the Caribbean; you never know where the wind may take your adventure.

Toiletries & Personal Medications

Remember to pack all necessary prescription medications and don’t forget your toiletries like shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste and any other personal care items you may wish to have. Just remember, typically when traveling via aircraft, unless you’ve checked your luggage, containers with liquids must be less than 3.4 fluid ounces and fit in a quart sized bag. Insects are seldom a problem, but it’s a good idea to bring repellent just in case.

Other Accessories

You may also want to have a bag to easily pack your beach gear. Some guests even choose to use water-resistant bags; if you’re on a boat with Seas the Day Charters USVI, just ask your captain or crew where the best place to store your belongings may be. Some cameras are designed to safely submerge underwater, if you have one, these are a great way to capture photos of colorful Caribbean fish, coral reefs, sea turtles and other majestic marine animals and a way to bring your memories home.

Electronics

If you will be traveling with electronics like your cell phone, camera, e-reader, portable speaker or a laptop, remember to bring your charging cords.

Most importantly, pack the items that will help you to have an enjoyable and comfortable vacation. We look forward to welcoming you to the Virgin Islands and we hope to SEA you soon.