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Originally Posted by Vasco  The reason you never saw another charter boat there is that most BVI charter outfits do not allow their boats to go there. You may be able to get special permission but this would only happen if you're experienced and known to the charter company. |
This is what I've been told twice now by people at the Moorings is their policy:
They have a "covered service area" around each base which is where they encourage people to sail and is all they usually will cover in their chart briefings. Inside this area, they guarantee assistance with in 24 hours. However, you are free to go anywhere, realizing that outside of the covered area, their guarantee of assistance within 24 hours no longer applies. When my fresh water system failed in the Spanish Virgin Islands for example, I had to deal with it on my own until I got back to the BVIs. I've met several people who have sailed from the BVIs to St. Martin. Their insurance policy stipulates no night sailing with the exception of passages between island groups.
In the Abacos, I routinely sail north of their covered area. There, they have me sign a form which states I realize they will not offer service north of Green Turtle Cay, but they have never questioned me about my experience or required me to get any special permission.
I can't speak to the policies of other charter companies and suggest anyone wishing to sail outside of the typical cruising area check with the charter company (including the Moorings) prior to their booking for their policies in this regard.