Are you planning to visit the Caribbean Island and aren't sure where to begin exploring it? Consider finding the best boat for Caribbean island hopping.
Finding a suitable mode of transport in a new environment is not the easiest. Fortunately, this does not mean missing out on excellent spots in the Caribbean. Consider scouting for a few highly-recommended boats if you want to experience the island's glory.
The best boats for Caribbean Island hopping include Beneteau 331, Bavaria 32, and the Jeanneau Sun Odyssey 42 DS for monohulls, the Manta 40, Leopard 44, or the PDQ 36 for catamarans. There are several options to go for depending on your needs. Check out what works for you before booking a boat.
The secret is to know which boat you'll need for the trip. Choosing the right boat for your trip makes a whole lot of difference. Talk to experts if you are confused and ask for recommendations.
Fortunately, there are numerous fantastic options you could consider. Pay attention to what is likely to fit your needs. Consider the examples below when scouting for a great boat.
10 Best Boat For Caribbean Island Hopping
There are different boats one can choose to explore the Caribbean in. These boats come in different sizes and designs. They also have varied amenities and capacities.
Some boats are large with few amenities, while others are large with many amenities. Other boats may seem small but can accommodate a lot of people. Before deciding on the boat you want to get, make sure to have a list of things you cannot compromise.
The best boats are not necessarily the priciest, but those that offer you comfort during this journey. Therefore, opt for such boats if you can afford luxury and space. To better understand this, you need to check out a few boats available in the market.
Below are some popular boats you will come across for this trip. Compare and contrast, and also ask experts to help you decide.
1. Beneteau 60
This is a beautiful long boat that is about 18 meters long. It's a large cute boat with three bathrooms and three bedrooms. The size is large enough for a medium-sized family or a group of close people.
You will enjoy several games on this boat, including paddleboard, wakeboard, beach, and water ski. All these will keep you busy while on the boat. If you decide to go with these, expect to pay at least 15.000$ to $25,000 per week.
The longer you stay, the more money you will part with. Either way, it is worth it because you can go around the island.
2. Fountaine Pajot 47
This is another alternative boat with 60HP Diesel motors. This catamaran found in the virgin islands will work if you scout for something luxurious. Moreover, it can comfortably accommodate eight people making it an excellent choice for groups and large families.
You can consider it a floating hotel, seeing the number of accessories it comes with. It has four cabins and four bathrooms. As for the size, this boat is 45.9 feet long with a 25.4-foot beam.
You will feel the luxury in this boat, considering the amenities it comes equipped with. The boat has a large TV set and a modern design. You also get a barbecue, a large sunroof, and a shower on the deck.
These unique and additional amenities come at an extra cost. You have to part with from $15,000 to $26000 per week to enjoy this boat for as long as you want.
3. Fountaine Pajot 50
The pajot 50 is slightly large and roomy. You get to enjoy more space with this one even though it has similar amenities as the one before. The spacious Pajot 50 is 15.2 meters long and has four cabins and four bathrooms.
As one of the most famous catamaran models, you are assured of the best experience. The facilities and onboard menu are fantastic. Another thing you'll love about this boat is that it allows you to enjoy a peaceful journey, thanks to its 150-hp motor.
However, you should be ready to pay more. The additional space will cost slightly higher because the boat goes for $15,000 to $30,000 per week.
4. Lagoon 62
The Lagoon 62 does not differ much from the previous boats discussed above. It is a catamaran that stands 62-foot long and has 2 x 110 hp motors. As for its capacity, it has four cabins and can accommodate at least eight people.
The bedrooms on this boat come with an electric WC, a queen-size bed, and a shower. Besides that, they also have air conditioning. You will also love that the cabin crew has their cabins and bathrooms separate from the rest.
Besides the bedroom and amenities, the living area is also well-packed. It has a salon, front nets, a control bridge, and a deck. Unfortunately, to enjoy this luxurious boat, one has to pay about $22.000 to $30,000 per week.
5. Horizon 52
You already know that the catamaran boat is famous in the Caribbean and the Horizon 52 is no different. However, this boat is quite different and is motor-powered. It has a capacity of 4 people who stay in two cabins with bathrooms. The most significant difference with this catamaran is that it has no sails.
This boat will still enjoy a luxurious feel since it comes with cute luxuries such as air conditioning, an outboard dinghy, a bathtub, and so much more. It gives off intimate vibes and costs about $20,000 to $30,000 per week.
6. Sunseeker 67
This is a 67-foot-long motor boat with a 6-people capacity. The boat is designed to be spacious and intimate since it has several bedrooms, each having its bathroom. It is a fast boat and the perfect choice for adrenaline junkies who want to hop around the island.
Due to the high speeds, this is one boat that guarantees efficiency. You will cover a substantial Island round within a short time. Interestingly, you only have to get these great perks for $20.000 to $26.000 per week.
7. Leopard 58
This is another ideal catamaran boat to go for if you are many. The boat can take up to 10 people thanks to the amenity provision of five bedrooms and five baths. It also comes with extra storage for your equipment and allows you to enjoy all the water sports you may desire.
Due to its large capacity, one can easily assume that it is way out of its league. Funny enough, this boat costs only $25.000 to $28.000 per week.
8. Sunreef 60
The sunroof is a great pick for large catamaran boats. It can take up to 10 people at a go and is spacious enough for the ultimate relaxation. The boat has five cabins, all ensuite with bathrooms.
Also included are five queen-sized beds. The living room is spacious and functional since it has a gallery that opens to the front deck and bow terrace. This extension forms an excellent spot for relaxation.
This boat is also adequately equipped with massive sunroofs, fuss, a bar, and good coffee tables. This would be the ideal boat to go for if you want to enjoy the Caribbean sunset. It is not surprising that it is a little pricier since it goes from $33.000 to $35.000 per week.
9. Sunreef 68
If you are a lover of great designs and aesthetics, then this is the boat you should pick. It is magnificent and slightly larger than the one before it.
It would be best if you considered this boat a superyacht. It is 24 meters long and has a fantastic living room surrounded by long glasses covering the floor to the ceiling. The 5-bedroomed boat seems to follow a new catamaran boat concept where boats are made to stand out as stylish, modern, and very comfy.
Enjoy this massive luxurious boat for $38.000 to $45.000 per week. With the gains and comfort it guarantees, you can bet that this is a great price and a worthy treat.
10. Broward 112
This is another large boat worth looking into. With a capacity of 10 people, the boat has four bedrooms and five bathrooms. It can be great for large families and groups if you want something fancy.
It is a powerful boat that can cover a great distance. Moreover, you are less likely to feel bored since the boat is reasonably spacious and luxurious. All you need to do is sit back and enjoy the cruise at a rate of $45.000 to $60.000 per week.
What Must You Consider When Choosing a Boat for Caribbean Island Hopping?
Comfort and space are important factors when choosing a boat for your Caribbean island hopping trip. However, there is more than meets the eye. Therefore, it would be best if you were looking for so much more.
Choose the Right-Sized Boat for Your Needs
The size is not cast in stone, and there are no fixed considerations. It depends on one's budget,
personal preferences, and needs. These considerations vary from one person to the next.
One person can find all they need in a 30-foot boat, while another may require a 60-foot boat. However, the size could influence the comfort of your boat. If you stay long-term on the boat, go for boats larger than 36 feet.
While it may still be possible to do with a smaller boat, it will be a struggle most of the time. Your gears and items may have to hang in there. Alternatively, you may have to force the residents to stay uncomfortably.
Consider the Amenities that Come with the Boat
The number of people you bring along will influence the amenities you need. Families and couples cruising have varied needs, so what one goes for depends on their unique dynamics.
However, ensure the boat has all the necessary amenities, such as enough beds and bathrooms.
Remember that you may live on the boat for months before returning to land. Therefore, ensure that the boat has everything you may ever need because there is no going back midway. Basic amenities are must-haves and must match the boat's capacity.
Consider the Storage
It would be best if you prioritize your storage needs because it goes hand in hand with the spacious needs. Make sure to have enough space to store your food. How much space you need for this depends on how long you may stay away from land, determining when you will replenish your supplies next.
Remember that you are less likely to make many stopovers. Carrying enough food, water, and other necessary items is safer. If possible, stock up excess so you never can tell when delays occur.
You also need enough storage to pack enough water toys. What you bring depends a lot on who is part of the trip. If the family trip includes kids, then make sure to pack both kids and adult water toys. You will need something to keep you busy as the days and nights get longer.
Additionally, store up enough fresh water. It may be true that there is plenty of fresh water, but you may not be assured of the quality and cost. Bring your own and ensure it is enough to serve you until your next stop is over.
With the many things you need to bring, it is essential to focus on getting a boat with sufficient space. Fortunately, there are numerous options when it comes to selling boats. Take time to identify a boat that perfectly suits your needs.
Sun Wind and Sea Protection
A good boat will have a good sunroof. This is important, especially if you are using a boat for the first time. The rays can be harsh, and you may end up affected negatively.
Choose a boat that offers some protection if you are concerned about this. A strong spray hood is also excellent when water splashes onto the boat. The goal is to enjoy the cruising experience without suffering, so anything enhancing your experience is welcome.
Ensure the Anchor is Comfortable
You must pay close attention to a few elements of your boat's anchor. These are:
- Airflow all through your boat
- Movement when anchored
- Ground tackle confidence
Remember that a good boat should exhibit a lot of integrity. The mentioned elements will help you ascertain this.
Usually, lightboats tend to rock and shift all the time, so you won't be excited to spend time anchored. Similarly, most roadstead anchorages are unprotected from wind shifts and hence unstable.
Instead, you may want to go for monohulls since they have deeper drafts, come with fuller
keels, and may have larger beams that don't snap or roll due to waves. Catamarans are also another excellent option since they hardly move when anchored unless lumpy.
Knowing there are several options to choose from when selecting a boat to cruise the Caribbean should give you peace of mind. Once you know which boats you may want at first glance, and the price is right, consider basic factors. Only get a boat when the most important aspects about it check out.
