The Best Boat Rentals in Antigua and Barbuda

Expect small self-drive powerboats to start around $300–$600 per day, plus fuel and a refundable security deposit. Private captained powerboats typically run about $700–$1,000 for a half day and $1,300–$2,000 for a full day. Sailing monohulls often range from roughly $500–$800 for a half day and $900–$1,500 for a full day, while private sailing catamarans commonly fall between about $900–$1,500 for a half day and $1,400–$2,500+ for a full day. Luxury yachts and large-group day boats can be $2,500–$5,000+ depending on size and season. Most captained trips include a licensed skipper and crew, fuel for the planned route, bottled water and soft drinks (often beer or rum punch), snorkel gear, and safety equipment. Not always included are gratuity, premium beverages, dock pick-up surcharges, catering upgrades, and reef or park fees if your itinerary adds them.

You will find a wide mix suited to different plans: center-console powerboats for fast beach-hopping and reef stops, sailing monohulls for traditional cruising, spacious sailing catamarans for stable group outings, sportfishing and power catamarans for offshore runs, and motor yachts for elevated comfort. Large day-sailing catamarans also operate for bigger groups and celebrations, while RIBs and speedboats are popular for quick snorkeling and sightseeing circuits.

Both options are available. Captained charters are the norm for visitors and require no license—you simply relax while a pro handles the boat and route. Self-drive rentals exist for smaller powerboats; you’ll be asked to show proof of boating competence or prior experience, and the company may require a brief check-out before departure. Recognized certifications (such as ASA, RYA, ICC, or a national boating license) and a government ID are helpful. If you’re unsure, choose a captained trip—it’s stress-free and lets the whole group enjoy the day.

The busiest hubs are Jolly Harbour Marina on the west coast and the historic Nelson’s Dockyard/English Harbour area in the south, with additional departures from nearby Falmouth Harbour Marina. Many sightseeing and snorkeling cruises also meet guests in St. John’s near Redcliffe Quay or along popular north and west coast beaches like Dickenson Bay when sea conditions allow. Your booking confirmation will specify the exact dock and any pick-up arrangements.

Highlights include the Georgian-era Nelson’s Dockyard and the sea cliffs and rock columns at the Pillars of Hercules, calm turquoise anchorages like Carlisle Bay and Rendezvous Bay, and vibrant reefs such as Cades Reef for snorkeling. In the North Sound, Great Bird Island and Green Island offer pristine beaches and sheltered waters, while Stingray City near Seaton’s is famous for gentle stingray encounters. Longer trips can circle Antigua or even venture to Barbuda for pink-sand beaches and the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, conditions permitting.

For captained charters, you don’t need any license. For self-operated rentals, local rules require operators to be competent, and rental companies will ask for proof of experience or a recognized certificate before releasing a boat. Providers may limit where you can go, require daylight operation, and conduct a safety and area briefing. If you don’t have documented experience or prefer an easier day, book with a captain.

Families are warmly welcomed. Boats carry approved life jackets for all passengers, and many can provide child and infant sizes—just share ages and approximate weights in advance. Captains give a safety briefing before departure and typically choose calm, family-friendly coves for snorkeling and swimming. Morning departures are usually the smoothest for younger children.

Most private charters include bottled water and soft drinks, and many add beer or rum punch. Some full-day trips include lunch; others offer catering as an add-on. Bringing your own snacks, birthday cakes, or special beverages is usually fine—confirm in advance, avoid glass where requested, and ask whether there’s a cooler and ice onboard. Let your captain know about any dietary needs so they can plan provisioning or restaurant stops.

Pet policies vary by vessel. Some boats welcome small, well-behaved dogs with advance notice and may charge a cleaning fee or require a pet life vest. Others restrict pets due to upholstery, reef stops, or wildlife areas. If traveling with a pet, mention it in your booking request so your captain can confirm what’s possible on your route.

Caribbean weather can bring quick showers, steady trade winds, and glassy mornings. Captains constantly assess sea state and may adjust timing or route for comfort and safety. If conditions are unsafe, trips are typically rescheduled or refunded according to the boat’s stated policy. On Getmyboat, each listing sets its own cancellation terms, and weather-related decisions rest with the captain for safety. During the Atlantic hurricane season (June through November, with the highest tropical activity often August to October), it’s smart to build flexibility into your plans and consider travel insurance.

Absolutely. The islands are set up for celebrations—from intimate sails for six to large day catamarans for bigger groups. Captains can help with decorations, custom music, snorkeling stops, beach time, and sunset timing. Share your headcount and occasion early so the crew can recommend the right boat and route, and plan extras like champagne, photography, or catered menus.

Peak boating season is December through April, when seas are generally at their calmest and the yachting calendar is in full swing. Signature events bring extra buzz and limited availability, including the RORC Caribbean 600 in February, the Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta in mid-April, and Antigua Sailing Week in late April. Early December can also be busy around the Antigua Charter Yacht Show. U.S. holiday weekends such as Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day attract additional visitors. For smoother seas, choose mornings; for golden light, go at sunset. Weekdays are easier to book and sometimes priced more favorably than weekends.

If you’re based along the west coast near Jolly Beach, Jolly Harbour Marina is the most convenient departure. For south-coast resorts around English Harbour or Falmouth, pickups typically occur inside Nelson’s Dockyard or at Falmouth Harbour Marina. St. John’s is a common meet-up for guests in the north or arriving by cruise ship. Your captain will advise the best dock based on your lodging and the day’s sea conditions.

Yes. Many private charters can tailor itineraries to swim with rays at Stingray City, snorkel Cades Reef, picnic at Green Island or Great Bird Island, or do a full circumnavigation of Antigua. With an early start and good weather, you can even arrange a private trip to Barbuda for pink-sand beaches and the Frigate Bird Sanctuary. Custom routes depend on sea state, group size, and boat type, so request these stops when you inquire to build a realistic plan and timing.