Alloy Yachts of Auckland, New Zealand, was among the world’s leading builders of large aluminium sailing superyachts before closing in 2015, producing an enduring fleet of ocean-going ketch, sloop and schooner-rigged vessels from 30 to 60 metres. The yard’s hulls are noted for their seakeeping, structural integrity and sailing performance, built to race-influenced designs by leading naval architects. These vessels remain among the finest charter sailing yachts afloat, and the US Virgin Islands trade winds are their natural environment.
Three Alloy sailing yachts are available for charter from the US Virgin Islands, typically in the 35 to 50 metre range and accommodating six to ten guests across three to five cabins. Professional sailing crews of five to eight manage the rig and the itinerary, and guest participation at the helm is welcomed on vessels designed to be sailed hard. Full watersports equipment is carried for days at anchor.
Weekly charter rates for Alloy yachts in the USVI run from around 50,000 euros for a 35-metre vessel to 150,000 euros for the larger examples. The advance provisioning allowance of 30 percent covers sailing fuel, provisions, berthing and drinks. The USVI winter trade wind season from December through April provides the consistent northeast breeze that these vessels were designed to exploit.
From the US Virgin Islands, Alloy yachts can make the crossing to the BVI under spinnaker in a single morning, and the circuit from St John to Anegada, Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke is one of the finest sailing weeks available in the Caribbean.
