Charter & Rent a Dufour 470 in St. Barts: 2026 Guide, Prices & Routes
Technical Specifications of the Dufour 470
The Dufour 470 is a masterpiece of modern naval architecture, designed by Umberto Felci to offer a voluminous interior without sacrificing the sleek, fast hull lines the brand is known for. This model represents a significant evolution in the 47-foot category, making it one of the most sought-after vessels for luxury boat rentals. Its wide beam carries far aft, providing an expansive cockpit that feels like a much larger yacht.
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Overall Length (LOA) | 14.85 m / 48' 8" |
| Beam | 4.74 m / 15' 6" |
| Draft | 2.25 m (Standard) |
| Cabins | 3 to 4 (plus convertible salon) |
| Berths | 6 to 10 + 2 |
| Engine | 50 HP to 75 HP (Volvo Penta) |
| Fuel Capacity | 250 Liters |
| Water Capacity | 530 Liters |
Why the Dufour 470 is Perfect for St. Barts
St. Barthélemy, or St. Barts, is famous for its chic atmosphere and rugged coastline. The Dufour 470 is uniquely suited for these waters for several reasons. Firstly, its modern hull design is exceptionally stable in the Atlantic swells that can occasionally roll between St. Maarten and St. Barts, ensuring a comfortable passage for those who may be prone to seasickness.
The yacht’s shallow-to-medium draft allows it to tuck into the turquoise shallows of Anse de Colombier, where deeper draft vessels are forced to anchor further out. Furthermore, the Dufour 470 features an innovative outdoor galley (plancha) and an expansive swim platform, which are essential for the Caribbean lifestyle. After a morning of sailing, the platform becomes your private beach club for snorkeling in the Nature Reserve or launching paddleboards into the crystal-clear water.
Estimated Rental and Charter Costs for 2026
Pricing for a Dufour 470 in St. Barts fluctuates based on the season, with the "Festive Season" (Christmas and New Year) commanding the highest premiums. Prices are generally quoted in EUR and reflect the high standard of maintenance required for luxury charters in the French West Indies.
| Season | Daily Rate (Est.) | Weekly Rate (Est.) |
|---|---|---|
| Low Season (May - Oct) | €950 - €1,200 | €5,500 - €7,000 |
| Mid Season (Nov - Dec / April) | €1,300 - €1,600 | €7,500 - €9,500 |
| High Season (Jan - March) | €1,700 - €2,100 | €10,000 - €14,000 |
Note: Prices are subject to change based on specific yacht configuration, availability, and additional services requested.
Sailing Itineraries from Gustavia
Most charters begin in the iconic Port de Gustavia, the heart of the island’s social and maritime life. From here, the entire Caribbean destination of St. Barts and its surrounding islets are within easy reach.
1-Day "Best of St. Barts" Itinerary
- Morning: Depart Gustavia and sail northwest to Anse de Colombier. This bay is only accessible by boat or foot, making it peaceful and exclusive.
- Lunch: Enjoy a chef-prepared meal on the cockpit of your Dufour 470 while moored in the marine park.
- Afternoon: Sail around the northern tip to Île Fourchue, a volcanic islet with dramatic scenery and incredible snorkeling.
- Evening: Return to Gustavia for a sunset cocktail as the lights of the town begin to twinkle.
7-Day "Leeward Islands" Itinerary
- Day 1: Boarding in Gustavia, sunset cruise to Anse du Gouverneur.
- Day 2: Sailing to St. Jean. Anchor near Eden Rock for lunch and watch the planes take off over the bay.
- Day 3: Cross to Anguilla (approx. 3-4 hours). Anchor at Rendenvous Bay for soft white sands.
- Day 4: Explore Shoal Bay or Sandy Island in Anguilla.
- Day 5: Sail to St. Martin. Spend the night at Grand Case, known as the gastronomic capital of the Caribbean.
- Day 6: Return to the St. Barts Nature Reserve, stopping at Coco Islet for diving.
- Day 7: Final breakfast at Colombier before returning to Gustavia.
Marinas, Mooring, and Logistics
The primary hub is Port de Gustavia. During the peak season, the inner harbor (the "Quai") is reserved for mega-yachts and high-end sailing vessels. If you are renting a Dufour 470, it is essential to book your berth months in advance if you wish to be dockside. Alternatively, many sailors choose to stay on a mooring buoy in the outer harbor, using a dinghy to access the town’s boutiques and restaurants.
Corossol and Colombier offer well-maintained mooring buoys managed by the Agence de l'Environnement. Anchoring is strictly regulated to protect the seagrass and coral reefs. Be aware that St. Barts is a port of entry, so if you are arriving from St. Martin or Antigua, your skipper will need to clear customs at the Capitainerie in Gustavia.
What is Included in Your Charter
When chartering a Dufour 470, the "all-inclusive" nature of the contract depends on whether you select a bareboat or crewed option. Typically, a luxury charter through an agency includes:
- The Skipper: A professional captain with local knowledge of secret coves and weather patterns.
- End Cleaning: Professional sanitization of the yacht upon return.
- Taxes and VAT: Local French maritime taxes are usually included in the base rate.
- Standard Equipment: Sheets, towels, snorkeling gear, and a dinghy with an outboard motor.
Items often excluded and covered by the APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance) include fuel consumption, fresh water refills, gourmet food and premium beverages, and marina berthing fees outside of the home port. For day rentals, fuel is sometimes included, but always verify the specific terms of your agreement.
Best Months and Sea Conditions
The best time for renting a Dufour 470 in St. Barts is from December to May. During these months, the "Trade Winds" (Alizés) blow consistently from the East/North-East at 15-25 knots, providing exhilarating sailing conditions that the Dufour 470 handles with grace. The air temperature hovers around 28°C, and the water is equally warm.
The "shoulder season" of June and November can offer lower prices and fewer crowds, though there is a higher risk of tropical rain showers. The hurricane season peaks from August to October; during this time, many charter fleets move south or undergo annual maintenance, making availability very limited.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a license required for renting a Dufour 470 in St. Barts?
If you choose a bareboat rental, you must provide a sailing CV demonstrating experience on yachts of similar size (45-50ft) and, in many cases, an ICC or equivalent national sailing license. If you are chartering a Dufour 470 in St. Barts with a professional skipper, no license or previous experience is required from the guests.
How many people can comfortably sleep on a Dufour 470?
The Dufour 470 is most comfortable for groups of 6 to 8 guests in 3 or 4 double cabins. While the yacht is licensed for up to 12 people for day trips, overnight charters are best limited to the number of fixed berths to ensure everyone has a private cabin and sufficient head (bathroom) access.
What is the difference between a bareboat and a crewed charter in St. Barts?
A bareboat rental gives you total privacy and control, but you are responsible for navigation, safety, and Mediterranean-style mooring. A crewed charter includes a skipper (and often a chef/hostess) who handles all technical aspects, cooking, and cleaning, allowing you to focus entirely on relaxation and the luxury St. Barts lifestyle.
Can we sail the Dufour 470 to neighboring islands?
Yes, the Dufour 470 is a Category A ocean-rated vessel. It is perfectly capable of the short passages to St. Maarten, Anguilla, or even Saba. However, you must inform your charter provider in advance to ensure the insurance covers international waters and that all necessary customs documentation is on board.