Dreaming of turquoise waters, sun-kissed beaches, and endless island adventures? Then look no further than the British Virgin Islands (BVI)! This week-long sailing itinerary will guide you through the best spots for snorkeling, swimming, dining, and soaking up the Caribbean vibes, all while enjoying the thrill of navigating your own sailboat.
Day 1: Arrival in Tortola and Setting Sail to Norman Island
Your BVI sailing adventure begins in Tortola, the largest island in the archipelago. Most international flights arrive at Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, which is connected to Tortola by the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge. After clearing customs, you’ll head to your charter company’s base, usually located in or near Nanny Cay or Road Town. Companies like The Moorings and Sunsail are popular choices, offering a range of bareboat and crewed charters.
Spend the morning completing the necessary paperwork, attending the boat briefing (crucial for understanding the vessel and its systems!), and stocking up on provisions. Consider using a provisioning service like Ample Hamper to have your food and beverages pre-ordered and delivered directly to your boat. This saves valuable time and ensures you have everything you need. Costs can range from $500 to $1500 depending on the size of your group and your preferences.
Once you’re ready, set sail for Norman Island, approximately a 2-3 hour sail southwest of Tortola. Norman Island is rumored to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island,” and it definitely has a swashbuckling vibe about it. Your destination is The Bight, a sheltered anchorage perfect for your first night. The Bight is a natural harbour with a calm and peaceful ambience. The mooring fee is around $45 per night.
The highlight of Norman Island is undoubtedly the Caves. These underwater grottos are teeming with colorful marine life and offer fantastic snorkeling. Remember to bring your snorkeling gear! In the evening, enjoy dinner and drinks at the famous Willy T, a floating bar and restaurant known for its lively atmosphere. Be prepared for the possibility of some (safe) jumping off the upper deck – it’s a Willy T tradition! Dinner and drinks cost on average from $50 to $80 per person. Alternatively, anchor in a quieter spot and enjoy a homemade meal under the stars.
Day 2: Exploring Norman Island and Cruising to Peter Island
Start your day with another swim in the Caves, perhaps exploring a different grotto than the day before. The visibility is usually best in the morning. After a leisurely breakfast onboard, raise the anchor and set sail for Peter Island, located southeast of Norman Island. The sail takes about an hour. Peter Island is home to Deadman’s Bay, consistently ranked among the world’s most beautiful beaches.
Secure a mooring ball in Deadman’s Bay (mooring fees are around $45) and spend the afternoon relaxing on the pristine white sand, swimming in the crystal-clear water, and soaking up the Caribbean sun. Peter Island Resort & Spa offers day passes, which include access to their amenities, such as the pool, restaurants, and spa. These are a great option if you’re looking for a bit of pampering. Day passes cost around $100 per person.
For dinner, you can choose from the resort’s restaurants or grill your catch of the day on board. A great option is to grill freshly caught fish – if you happen to have a fisherman in your crew! Remember to check local regulations regarding fishing licenses and permitted areas.
Day 3: Peter Island to Cooper Island and a Relaxing Afternoon
After breakfast in Deadman’s Bay, it’s time to plot a course for Cooper Island, located just south of Peter Island. This short sail (about 30-45 minutes) brings you to a haven of eco-consciousness and laid-back charm. Cooper Island Beach Club is the main attraction here, boasting a fantastic restaurant, rum bar, and a small brewery on site. Check their website for updated menus and hours.
Moor in Manchioneel Bay (mooring fees are approximately $45), then dinghy ashore to explore. Spend the afternoon snorkeling at Cistern Point, renowned for its diverse marine life, including sea turtles and colorful coral formations. You can rent snorkeling gear from the Cooper Island Beach Club if you don’t have your own.
As the sun sets, indulge in a delicious meal at the Cooper Island Beach Club restaurant. Their menu features fresh seafood and locally sourced ingredients. Their passion fruit rum punch is a must-try! Expect to spend around $60-$90 per person for dinner and drinks. The Beach Club also offers accommodations if anyone in your party would like to spend a night on land.
Day 4: Cooper Island to Virgin Gorda and The Baths
Get an early start and sail north to Virgin Gorda, the third-largest island in the BVI. This is a longer sail (around 2-3 hours), so be sure to check the weather forecast and plan accordingly. Your destination is The Baths National Park, a geological wonderland of giant granite boulders scattered along the shoreline.
Anchor off Spanish Town (Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour offers marina services if you prefer a slip for the night) and dinghy to shore. From there, it’s a short walk to The Baths. Pay the park entrance fee (around $3 per person) and prepare to be amazed. Explore the labyrinthine caves, swim in the turquoise tide pools, and marvel at the sheer scale of the boulders. Wear comfortable shoes as you’ll be climbing and scrambling over rocks.
After exploring The Baths, head to Top of the Baths restaurant for lunch with stunning panoramic views. Alternatively, pack a picnic to enjoy on the beach. Prices at Top of the Baths will be around $30 per person for lunch. In the late afternoon, sail slightly north and anchor in the calmer waters of Savannah Bay. Enjoy a sunset cocktail on board.
Day 5: Exploring Virgin Gorda: Savannah Bay to North Sound
Savannah Bay offers a tranquil start to the day with its beautiful, long, white sandy beach. After a morning swim, hoist the sails for a leisurely cruise north to North Sound, a vast, protected bay on the northeastern side of Virgin Gorda. This area is a hub of activity, offering a variety of restaurants, bars, and water sports.
Choose your anchorage carefully; Leverick Bay is a popular option with mooring balls (around $45) and marina facilities, but it can get crowded. Bitter End Yacht Club, recently rebuilt after Hurricane Irma, also offers moorings and a range of amenities. Alternatively, anchor in a quieter spot like Prickly Pear Island. A great option in North Sound is Sandbox, a beach bar and restaurant offering great drinks and food with your toes in the sand. A meal and drinks will be approximately $50 per person.
In the afternoon, explore North Sound. Visit Saba Rock, a tiny island with a lively bar and restaurant, famous for its happy hour and tarpon feeding. Or head to Bitter End Yacht Club for water sports activities like windsurfing, kayaking, or paddleboarding. Consider a snorkeling trip to Eustatia Sound, known for its vibrant coral reefs, which is easily booked thru local vendors and at your hotel.
Day 6: Anegada: The Lobster Capital
Today, embark on a slightly longer sail to Anegada, the only coral island in the BVI and famous for its flat landscape and abundant lobster. This sail will take around 3-4 hours, depending on the wind and current. Be sure to navigate carefully as Anegada is surrounded by reefs.
Anchor in Setting Point (Anegada Reef Hotel offers mooring balls and dinghy dock access) and prepare for a unique island experience. Rent a jeep or scooter to explore the island; taxis are also available. Visit Loblolly Bay and Cow Wreck Beach, two stunning stretches of white sand with crystal-clear water.
Anegada is all about relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty. Spend the day swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. In the evening, indulge in a mouthwatering lobster dinner at the Anegada Reef Hotel or Potters by the Sea. Prices for lobster dinners range from $60 to $90 depending on the size and the restaurant. Don’t forget to try the local Bushwacker cocktail!
Day 7: Return to Tortola and Farewell Dinner
Enjoy one last sunrise over Anegada before setting sail back to Tortola. This is another longer sail (around 4-5 hours), so plan accordingly. Aim to arrive back at your charter base in the late afternoon to allow time for refueling, debriefing, and checking out. Charter companies usually specify a time to return the vessel, typically between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
After completing the check-out process, treat yourself to a farewell dinner at one of Tortola’s many restaurants. Pusser’s Road Town Pub is a classic choice for its nautical atmosphere and famous Painkiller cocktail. Or try D’Coalpot for authentic Caribbean cuisine. A good meal for your last night will average $60-$80 per person.
Packing Essentials for Your BVI Sailing Trip
Packing light is essential for a sailing trip, but here are a few must-haves:
- Swimsuits (at least two): You’ll be spending most of your time in the water!
- Lightweight clothing: Think breathable fabrics like linen and cotton
- Reef-safe sunscreen: Protect your skin and the coral reefs.
- Hat and sunglasses: Essential for sun protection.
- Water shoes or sandals: For navigating rocky beaches and docks.
- Snorkeling gear: If you have your own, bring it! Otherwise, you can rent gear at many locations.
- Seasickness medication: Just in case! Options include Dramamine, Bonine, or ginger tablets.
- Bug spray: Mosquitoes can be active, especially in the evenings.
- Reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated!
- Motion sickness remedies: For those prone to sea sickness, ginger candies and wristbands can come in handy.
Budgeting for Your BVI Sailing Adventure
A BVI sailing trip can range in cost depending on the type of charter, the time of year, and your spending habits. Here’s a rough estimate:
- Charter fees: $3,000 – $10,000+ per week (depending on boat size and season)
- Provisioning: $500 – $1,500 per week
- Moorings/dockage: $40 – $60 per night
- Fuel and water: $200 – $500 per week
- Food and drinks: $50 – $100+ per person per day (depending on whether you eat on board or ashore)
- Park fees and activities: $50 – $100 per person per week
Consider that costs will vary widely, off-season will typically be much cheaper, but weather may be worse.
Getting Around the BVI
While sailing is the primary mode of transportation, you’ll need to use your dinghy to get ashore. Taxis are available on some islands, but they can be expensive. Renting a jeep or scooter is a good option for exploring Anegada and Virgin Gorda. Remember to drive on the left!
Staying Connected
WiFi is available at many restaurants and bars, but it’s not always reliable. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or using a satellite phone for emergencies. Many charters include wi-fi devices, but speed can vary in remote areas and can incur additional costs.
Best Time to Sail the BVI
The best time to sail the BVI is during the dry season, from December to May. The weather is generally sunny and dry, with consistent trade winds. The shoulder seasons (April-May and November-December) offer a good balance of pleasant weather and lower prices. Hurricane season runs from June to November, so it’s best to avoid sailing during this time.
Important Considerations
- Sailing experience: While bareboat charters are available, you’ll need sufficient sailing experience to navigate safely. If you’re new to sailing, consider hiring a captain.
- Navigation skills: Familiarize yourself with the BVI charts and navigation rules. A GPS plotter is essential.
- Weather forecasting: Monitor the weather forecast daily and adjust your itinerary accordingly.
- Water conservation: Water is a precious resource in the BVI. Conserve water whenever possible.
- Respect the environment: Avoid anchoring in fragile coral reef areas and dispose of trash properly.
FAQ Section
Do I need a visa to enter the BVI?
Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. Check the BVI government’s website for the latest information.
What currency is used in the BVI?
The official currency is the US dollar.
What language is spoken in the BVI?
The official language is English.
What is the tipping etiquette in the BVI?
Tipping is customary in the BVI. A 15-20% tip is generally expected in restaurants and bars.
Are there any health concerns in the BVI?
Check with your doctor regarding recommended vaccinations and health precautions. Mosquito-borne illnesses such as dengue fever can occur.
Can I rent a car in the BVI?
Yes, car rentals are available on Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Anegada. Be aware that you need to drive on the left.
How experienced do I need to be to sail in the BVI?
The BVI are considered relatively easy to sail due to the short distances between islands and the protected waters. Anyone with basic sailing skills and certification can feel confident sailing in the area.
Are there many mooring opportunities in the BVI?
Yes, there are many mooring opportunities in BVI, especially near popular beaches and attractions. It’s still critical to arrive early, especially during peak season, and to keep up with mooring fees.
Is BVI a safe place to sail?
Yes, BVI is one of the safest places for sailing. The islands are politically stable, and the crime rate is low.
What happens if I damage my charter boat?
Most charter companies require you to purchase insurance, which covers any accidental damages to the boat. However, depending on the level of your insurance, you may still be responsible for a deductible. Read your charter contract carefully for the details of the company’s insurance policy and your financial responsibility.
Can I swim anywhere in the BVI?
Yes, swimming is allowed at most beaches and bays in the BVI, but is unsafe where boats are moving and in deeper water. Look out for the designated swimming zones marked off at beaches. Also always wear snorkelling and swimming with a buddy for safety.
References
- The Moorings
- Sunsail
- Ample Hamper
- BVI Government Website
Ready to set sail on your own BVI adventure? Start planning your trip today and create memories that will last a lifetime. The turquoise waters, stunning beaches, and laid-back Caribbean vibes are waiting for you!
