Charter & Rent a Bertram 50 in the British Virgin Islands: 2026 Guide, Prices & Routes
Technical Specifications of the Bertram 50
The Bertram 50 is widely regarded as a masterpiece of naval architecture, balancing a deep-V hull design with the amenities of a luxury motor yacht. For those planning to live aboard during their charter, the interior volume is surprisingly generous, while the cockpit remains the heart of the action for fishing or sunset cocktails.
- Length Overall: 15.75 meters (51' 8")
- Beam: 5.33 meters (17' 6")
- Draft: 1.52 meters (5' 0")
- Cabins: 2 or 3 (depending on configuration)
- Berths: 4 to 6 guests
- Engines: Twin Caterpillar or MAN diesels (typically 1150 HP each)
- Fuel Capacity: 3,900 Liters
- Water Capacity: 600 Liters
The 1.52-meter draft is particularly advantageous in the BVI, allowing the captain to navigate closer to the white sands of Anegada or the shallow reefs of the Dog Islands than larger displacement yachts might permit. Explore our full range of vessels at /boats to compare these specs with other models in our fleet.
Why the Bertram 50 is Perfect for the British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands are characterized by short "island-hopping" distances, but the Atlantic swells between the islands can occasionally become spirited. The Bertram 50’s legendary hull is built to slice through the "Christmas Winds" of early 2026 with ease, providing a dry and stable ride even when the sea state gets choppy.
Beyond its performance, the boat’s flybridge offers 360-degree views, essential for spotting the vibrant coral heads of the Horseshoe Reef or navigating the busy waters around Road Town. The large cockpit serves as a versatile platform; it is equally suited for world-class deep-sea fishing for Marlin and Tuna as it is for easy access to the water for snorkeling at The Indians or The Caves. Its maneuverability makes it an excellent choice for grabbing one of the many mooring balls found in popular spots like Cooper Island or Jost Van Dyke.
Chartering Costs and Seasonal Pricing for 2026
When considering renting a Bertram 50 in the British Virgin Islands, pricing varies based on the level of service, the duration of the trip, and the specific week of the year. The following table outlines the estimated price ranges for a fully crewed or skippered Bertram 50 charter in EUR.
| Season | Months | Daily Rate (EUR) | Weekly Rate (EUR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Low Season | August - October | €2,800 - €3,400 | €18,000 - €22,000 |
| Mid Season | May - July / Nov | €3,500 - €4,200 | €23,000 - €27,000 |
| High Season | December - April | €4,500 - €5,500 | €28,000 - €35,000 |
Note: Prices are estimates for 2026 and may vary based on fuel prices and specific yacht upgrades. High season peaks during the Christmas and New Year period.
Curated BVI Itineraries: From Tortola to Anegada
Most charters begin at the Hodges Creek Marina or The Moorings Marina in Road Town, Tortola. From here, the entire archipelago is your playground.
1-Day Express Itinerary
- Morning: Depart Road Town and head straight to The Baths on Virgin Gorda to beat the crowds. Explore the granite boulders and hidden tide pools.
- Lunch: Cruise to Cooper Island for a gourmet lunch at the Beach Club and a flight of local rums.
- Afternoon: Snorkel the crystal-clear waters of The Indians and The Caves at Norman Island.
- Evening: Return to Tortola as the sun sets over the Sir Francis Drake Channel.
7-Day Ultimate BVI Discovery
- Day 1: Tortola to Norman Island. Overnight at the "Willy T" for a lively evening.
- Day 2: Sail to Peter Island. Anchor at Deadman’s Bay for a day of beach lounging.
- Day 3: Head to Virgin Gorda. Explore the North Sound and anchor near Saba Rock.
- Day 4: A long, smooth run on the Bertram 50 to Anegada. Feast on famous Anegada lobster.
- Day 5: Return south to Guana Island for secluded snorkeling at Monkey Point.
- Day 6: Jost Van Dyke. Spend the day at White Bay, home of the Soggy Dollar Bar.
- Day 7: Stop at Sandy Spit for photos before returning to the marina in Tortola.
Logistics: Marinas, Mooring, and Berthing
The British Virgin Islands have transitioned largely to a mooring ball system managed by BoatyBall or the National Parks Trust to protect the delicate seabed. When chartering a Bertram 50 in the British Virgin Islands, your skipper will handle the logistics of securing these moorings, which typically cost between $40 and $65 USD per night.
For those who prefer dockage, the Scrub Island Resort & Marina and Leverick Bay Marina offer full-service berths with electricity, water, and access to resort amenities. The Bertram 50’s 17-foot beam is standard for most slips, making it easy to find berthing compared to wider catamarans. You can learn more about the various docking locations across our /destinations page.
Inclusions and Financial Considerations
When renting a Bertram 50 in the British Virgin Islands, it is vital to understand the "All-Inclusive" vs. "Plus Expenses" (APA) structures. Most motor yacht charters operate on a Plus Expenses basis:
- The Skipper: Professional captain fees are usually included in the base rate.
- APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance): Typically 30-35% of the charter fee. This covers fuel, food, beverages, and custom requests.
- VAT/Taxes: BVI Cruising Taxes and National Park permits are mandatory and often deducted from the APA.
- Fuel: The Bertram 50 is a powerful machine; fuel consumption depends on your cruising speed. Trolling for fish uses significantly less than high-speed transits.
- End Cleaning: Usually included in the weekly rate, though a "turnaround fee" may apply for back-to-back bookings.
Best Time to Visit: Weather and Sea Conditions
The prime window for a BVI charter is from December to June. During these months, the trade winds are consistent, and the air temperature hovers around a perfect 28°C. February and March are particularly popular for sailors and motor yacht enthusiasts alike. If you are looking for calmer seas, the summer months of May and June offer glass-like conditions, ideal for the Bertram 50 to reach its top speeds, though the humidity is slightly higher. We recommend avoiding the peak hurricane season from mid-August through September, as many shore-based restaurants and marinas close for maintenance during this period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is renting a Bertram 50 in the British Virgin Islands suitable for families?
Absolutely. The Bertram 50 is designed with high gunwales and a stable hull, making it very safe for children. The interior is climate-controlled, providing a cool sanctuary for younger guests or seniors to escape the Caribbean sun between island stops.
What is the benefit of chartering a Bertram 50 in the British Virgin Islands over a catamaran?
While catamarans offer more deck space, the Bertram 50 offers superior speed and sea-keeping abilities. You can reach distant islands like Anegada in half the time it takes a sailing catamaran, giving you more hours to spend on the beach or exploring the reefs.
Do I need a license for renting a Bertram 50 in the British Virgin Islands?
For a vessel of this power and value, most charter companies require a professional skipper. However, if you possess a high-level RYA or ICC certification and can demonstrate significant experience with twin-engine inboard diesels, "bareboat" options may be discussed following a sea trial.
What is the maximum capacity for a day trip versus an overnight charter?
For day rentals, the Bertram 50 can comfortably accommodate up to 12 guests plus crew. For overnight charters, the capacity is limited to 4 or 6 guests to ensure everyone has a comfortable berth and private cabin access.