Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the boat located?

West End, Tortola, BVI. The marina is called “Soper’s Hole Wharf & Marina.”

How do we get to the boat?

This will vary depending on where you fly into and at what time, but it will likely be some combination of a couple of taxis and a ferry ride, or a private water taxi, if that’s more your style. Our team is here to make recommendations based on your arrival and departure details. Contact your broker to find out what’s easiest!

How/what do we pack for this trip?

We cannot emphasize it enough: pack lightly! This is a barefoot boat, so you shouldn’t pack more than two or three pairs of shoes, based on your planned activities. We also recommend that the bag you bring is softsided, as you’ll find it very difficult to store any hard luggage. If you think you’ll need to check a bag, you probably packed too much. Contact your broker if you want more specific details on how and what you should pack.

Okay, so I know how much and what type of clothing to pack - what about other things?

Keep the “packing lightly” rule of thumb in mind here, too. Ditch the curlers and straighteners. Bring the toiletries you need, but note that you’ll be able to buy what you need when you arrive, if you’d like. The boat comes stocked with hand soap, shampoo, and body wash, so if you’d like conditioner and/or specific products, find a compact way of bringing it or buy it when you arrive.

We’re not doing an all-inclusive trip, so we’re cooking our own meals onboard. What cooking supplies will we have?

This is not a bareboat, meaning that you’ll find plenty of basic needs and supplies already onboard. For provisioning, there is a grocery store called Harbour Market at Soper’s Hole which will be easy to shop from once you arrive. Alternatively, some grocery stores such as Riteway offer delivery services you can use.

I want to tip my crew - what do I need to know about that?

Typical gratuities in the Virgin Islands are 15-20% of the total charter fee, excluding any discounts you might have received, with 15% indicating the crew met expectations and 20% or more indicating the crew was excellent. Gratuities are always optional and should be based on your satisfaction with the service you receive. Giving more than the suggested amount for extraordinary service is greatly appreciated. Your broker can help you calculate what this would be for your particular charter.

Do I need to bring cash?

It is highly recommended that each member of your group have some cash on hand. Card is accepted for most goods and services in the Virgin Islands, but some vendors or facilities are cash-only or will charge an extra fee for card transactions.

I’m a US citizen - do I need a passport?

Yes! The boat is docked in the BVI, so even if you wanted a USVI-only trip, you would still need to get into the British Virgin Islands in order to board. If you don’t already have a passport but want to sail on the Somewhere Hot, apply for one as soon as possible. Expect a turnaround time of about three months.

How else can I prepare for my trip?

Let friends and family know you’ll be out of the country, and plan to use a WiFi-based form of communication or ensure your phone plan allows international calls/texts. Inform your bank of your upcoming travel plans so that your card isn’t rejected. Make sure your passport and other identification documents aren’t expired.

Where can we provide feedback after our trip?

Your broker will contact you after your trip ends. Tell them honestly if you had a good time, what your favorite parts were, if there is anything that could’ve been done better, etc.! We are a small company and want the best for our guests and crew alike. Additionally, if you had such a spectacular time and want to show your appreciation, the best thing you can do is tell others! If you post pictures/videos of your trip to social media, please tag us!