Charter & Rent a Grand Banks 60 in the British Virgin Islands: 2026 Guide, Prices & Routes
Grand Banks 60: Technical Specifications and Layout
The Grand Banks 60 is a masterpiece of marine engineering, designed to offer a long-range cruising experience without sacrificing speed. Built with a lightweight but incredibly strong semi-displacement hull, it provides a smooth ride even when the Caribbean trade winds pick up. For those interested in the technical details of our boats, the GB60 stands out for its spaciousness and fuel economy.
- Length Overall (LOA): 19.9 meters (approx. 65' 4")
- Beam: 5.85 meters (19' 2")
- Draft: 1.14 meters (3' 9") – Ideal for shallow Caribbean bays.
- Cabins: 3 Guest Cabins (typically a Master, a VIP, and a Twin).
- Berths: 6 Guests (plus crew quarters).
- Engine Options: Twin Volvo Penta D13s or Twin Cummins QSM11s.
- Cruising Speed: 20–22 knots.
- Fuel Capacity: 5,800 Liters.
- Water Capacity: 1,100 Liters.
Why the Grand Banks 60 is Perfect for the BVI
The British Virgin Islands are often referred to as a "nautical playground," and the Grand Banks 60 is the ultimate toy for this environment. One of the primary advantages of this model is its shallow draft of just under four feet. This allows the captain to navigate closer to the shore in spots like Savannah Bay or the North Sound of Virgin Gorda, where deeper-draft monohulls might have to anchor much further out.
The sea state in the Sir Francis Drake Channel is generally manageable, but the "Christmas Winds" can occasionally create a chop. The GB60’s hull design and stabilization systems ensure that even when moving between Tortola and Anegada, the ride remains comfortable for all guests. Furthermore, the expansive flybridge serves as the perfect vantage point for spotting the vibrant turquoise reefs while entering protected harbors. For more details on the geography of the region, visit our destinations page.
2026 Charter Rates: Renting a Grand Banks 60
Pricing for the Grand Banks 60 in the British Virgin Islands varies based on the season. The peak season typically runs from mid-December through March, while the shoulder seasons offer a balance of excellent weather and more competitive pricing. Please note that for 2026, rates are quoted in EUR for consistency with international luxury standards.
| Season | Daily Rate (EUR) | Weekly Rate (EUR) |
|---|---|---|
| Low Season (May - October) | €3,800 - €4,500 | €26,000 - €31,000 |
| Mid Season (Nov - Early Dec / April) | €4,600 - €5,400 | €32,000 - €38,000 |
| High Season (Christmas / New Year / Feb) | €5,500 - €6,500 | €40,000 - €48,000 |
BVI Itineraries: From 1-Day Sprints to 7-Day Voyages
Most charters originate from Nanny Cay Marina or Village Cay Marina on Tortola. These hubs provide immediate access to the Sir Francis Drake Channel.
1-Day "Best of the BVI" Itinerary
- Morning: Depart Tortola and head straight to The Baths at Virgin Gorda. Arrive early to beat the crowds and explore the giant granite boulders.
- Lunch: Cruise to Cooper Island for a gourmet lunch at the Beach Club and some snorkeling at Cistern Point.
- Afternoon: A quick hop to Norman Island to snorkel "The Caves" (the inspiration for Treasure Island).
- Evening: Return to Tortola as the sun sets over the island of St. John in the distance.
7-Day Luxury Cruise
- Day 1: Board at Nanny Cay, Tortola. Short shake-down cruise to Norman Island for sunset cocktails at the Willy T.
- Day 2: Sail to Peter Island. Anchor in Deadman’s Bay for a day of paddleboarding and beach relaxation.
- Day 3: Head to Virgin Gorda. Spend the morning at The Baths and the afternoon at Leverick Bay.
- Day 4: North Sound Exploration. Visit Bitter End Yacht Club or Saba Rock for a sophisticated lunch and water sports.
- Day 5: The Anegada Run. A 15-mile trek to the flat coral atoll of Anegada. Famous for its lobster and secluded beaches like Loblolly Bay.
- Day 6: Jost Van Dyke. Anchor in White Bay to visit the Soggy Dollar Bar and enjoy the world-famous "Painkiller" cocktail.
- Day 7: Sandy Spit and Guana Island. Enjoy a final morning of snorkeling in pristine waters before returning to Tortola.
Logistics: Marinas and Mooring in the BVI
The BVI is exceptionally well-equipped for luxury motor yachts. While the Grand Banks 60 is perfectly capable of spending nights on the hook (anchored), many guests prefer the convenience of the BoatyBall mooring system or traditional orange moorings managed by the BVI National Parks Trust. These prevent anchor damage to the coral reefs and provide a secure stay.
If you prefer dockage, the Scrub Island Resort & Marina and Oil Nut Bay offer world-class berthing facilities with access to resort amenities, including spas and fine dining. Fuel is readily available at Nanny Cay, Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour, and Leverick Bay.
What is Included in Your Charter?
When chartering a Grand Banks 60, it is essential to understand the "all-inclusive" vs. "plus expenses" structure. In the BVI, most luxury motor yachts operate on a plus expenses basis using an Advanced Provisioning Allowance (APA).
- Included: The yacht itself, a professional skipper (and often a stewardess/chef), standard yacht insurance, and end cleaning.
- APA (Advanced Provisioning Allowance): Usually 30-35% of the charter fee. This covers fuel, food, beverages, dockage fees, and local taxes.
- VAT/Taxes: BVI Cruising Taxes and entry/exit fees are typically paid via the APA.
- Gratuity: It is customary to tip the crew 15-20% of the base charter rate for excellent service.
Best Months and Sea Conditions
The best time for renting a Grand Banks 60 in the British Virgin Islands is between December and May. During these months, the humidity is lower, and the "Tradewinds" provide a consistent breeze that keeps the yacht cool while at anchor. February and March are peak months for sailing events, while May offers calmer seas and slightly warmer water temperatures, perfect for snorkeling.
Hurricane season runs from June through November. While many operators still offer charters in June and July—often with the calmest waters of the year—it is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance during this period.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a license required for renting a Grand Banks 60 in the British Virgin Islands?
Because the Grand Banks 60 is a high-value, complex luxury yacht, it is almost exclusively offered as a crewed or skippered charter. If you wish to bareboat (drive it yourself), you must provide a comprehensive maritime CV demonstrating experience with vessels of similar displacement and twin-engine systems, subject to insurance approval.
What is the maximum capacity for chartering a Grand Banks 60 in the British Virgin Islands?
While the yacht can accommodate up to 12 passengers for day trips, the sleeping capacity for overnight charters is typically limited to 6 guests in 3 cabins to ensure maximum comfort and privacy, plus separate quarters for the professional crew.
How much fuel does a Grand Banks 60 consume during a BVI week?
Fuel consumption depends heavily on your speed. At a "trawler speed" of 10 knots, the GB60 is incredibly efficient. However, if you utilize its 20+ knot cruising speed to hop quickly between islands, consumption will increase. On average, for a standard BVI itinerary, guests should budget between €1,500 and €3,000 for fuel via the APA.
Can we customize the itinerary when renting a Grand Banks 60?
Absolutely. One of the primary benefits of a private charter is the flexibility. Your skipper will consult with you daily to adjust the route based on weather conditions, your interests (e.g., diving vs. beach clubs), and the busyness of specific anchorages.