Sailing the British Virgin Islands (BVI) offers an unparalleled experience for boaters of all skill levels. With calm waters, steady trade winds, and a plethora of stunning islands and cays, the BVI is a true sailor’s paradise. This guide provides you with everything you need to know to plan your ultimate BVI sailing adventure, covering essential spots, tips, and practical information.
Choosing Your BVI Sailing Route: Popular Itineraries
The beauty of the BVI lies in its diversity. You can tailor your itinerary to suit your preferences, whether you’re seeking lively beach bars, secluded anchorages, or world-class snorkeling. Here are a few popular routes to get you started:
The Classic 7-Day Itinerary: This is a great option for first-timers, covering the “must-see” islands. Start in Tortola, head to Norman Island (The Caves and Willy T’s), then to Peter Island (Deadman’s Bay), Virgin Gorda (The Baths), Anegada (Loblolly Bay), back to Jost Van Dyke (White Bay and Foxy’s), and finally back to Tortola. This itinerary balances relaxation with exploration, offering a taste of everything the BVI has to offer.
The Relaxation Route: Focus on quieter anchorages and secluded beaches. Start in Tortola, head to Cooper Island (Manchioneel Bay), Salt Island (RMS Rhone), Virgin Gorda (Savannah Bay), Guana Island (White Bay), Jost Van Dyke (Sandy Cay), and back to Tortola. This route is perfect for those seeking peace and tranquility, with plenty of opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
The Adventure Route: For experienced sailors looking for a bit more excitement. Start in Tortola, sail north to Anegada (setting sail early to make the crossing), then to Virgin Gorda (North Sound for water activities), The Dogs, Great Camanoe (Lee Bay), Jost Van Dyke (Bubbly Pool), and back to Tortola. This itinerary involves longer passages and more exposed waters, testing your sailing skills and rewarding you with stunning scenery and unique experiences. Note: Anegada requires careful navigation due to its surrounding reefs, and the crossing from Virgin Gorda can be challenging in certain conditions. Consider checking weather reports and planning accordingly. Consulting with a local charter company for route advice is always a good idea.
Must-Visit Spots in the BVI: An Island-by-Island Guide
Let’s dive into some of the top spots you absolutely must visit during your BVI sailing trip. We’ll cover each island and cay, highlighting their unique attractions and providing practical information, including costs where applicable.
Tortola: The Hub of the BVI
Tortola, the largest island in the BVI, is the main entry point and home to many charter companies. Road Town, the capital, offers provisioning options, restaurants, and nightlife.
Soper’s Hole Wharf (West End): A charming harbor with colorful shops, restaurants, and a relaxed atmosphere. It’s a great place to clear customs and immigration if you’re arriving from another island. Enjoy a meal at Pusser’s Landing, known for its Painkiller cocktail. Cost: Mooring fees vary and are typically around $30-40 per night.
Cane Garden Bay: A beautiful stretch of beach with several beach bars and restaurants. Enjoy live music at Myett’s or sample the local rum at Callwood Rum Distillery, one of the oldest continuously operating distilleries in the Caribbean. This beach can get crowded, especially during peak season, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
Cost: Mooring balls are available for around $30-40 per night, and dinghy docking at the beach is usually free.
The Moorings/Sunsail Base (Wickhams Cay II): If you are chartering from The Moorings or Sunsail, this is likely where your trip will start and end. Wickhams Cay offers convenient access to amenities and is a great jumping-off point for exploring Tortola and the surrounding islands.
Cost: Typically included in your charter package.
Smuggler’s Cove: a peaceful and secluded beach located on the western tip of Tortola. This is a top-rated snorkeling spot if you want to escape the big crowds. Getting there from Tortola is fairly simple via taxi. Prices can vary depending on where you are departing from, but average around $15/person..
Cost: Access to the beach is free. There is a small fee for chair and umbrella rentals.
Norman Island: Treasure Island Inspiration
Legend has it that Norman Island inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island.” It’s known for its caves, snorkeling spots, and the infamous Willy T floating bar.
The Caves: Located on the west side of Norman Island, these caves are a must-visit for snorkelers. Explore the underwater world and admire the colorful fish and coral. Take your dinghy close to the rocks and swim into the caves. Bring a waterproof flashlight for the best experience.
Cost: Free
Willy T: A floating bar and restaurant (officially named William Thornton) that’s become a BVI institution. Jump off the top deck for an adrenaline rush and enjoy the lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to grab a drink and party with fellow sailors. Note that the Willy T has moved locations a few times. As of my last update, it’s anchored in Great Harbour, Peter Island. Double-check the current location before heading there.
Cost: Drinks and food are priced similarly to other bars in the BVI. Budget around $10-15 per drink.
The Bight: A sheltered anchorage on the western side of Norman Island. It’s a popular spot for overnight stays, offering calm waters and easy access to the Willy T and The Caves. Be warned – it can get crowded, especially on weekends.
Cost: Mooring fees are around $30-40 per night.
Peter Island: Luxury and Seclusion
Peter Island is a privately owned island offering luxury accommodations and pristine beaches. It’s a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy a more upscale experience.
Deadman’s Bay: One of the most beautiful beaches in the BVI, with powdery white sand and crystal-clear water. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The Peter Island Resort is located here, offering dining and spa services. Anchor off the beach and take your dinghy ashore.
Cost: Access to the beach is free, but dining at the resort can be expensive. Expect to pay around $50-100 per person for dinner.
Great Harbour (Peter Island): A sheltered harbor where you can find the relocated Willy T, as mentioned above. Also a place to find moorings.
Cost: Mooring fees around $30-40 per night.
Virgin Gorda: The Baths and Beyond
Virgin Gorda is famous for The Baths, a unique geological formation of giant granite boulders. However, the island offers more than just that, including secluded beaches and stunning landscapes.
The Baths: A must-see attraction in the BVI. Explore the giant granite boulders, swim in the crystal-clear pools, and crawl through the hidden caves. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be rocky and slippery. There is a small entrance fee to the park. From your boat, take a mooring at Spanish Town, then take a taxi to the Baths (or, anchor closer and take a dinghy, if conditions permit – be prepared for a potentially wet landing!). Cost: Entrance fee around $8 per person. Taxi from Spanish Town around $5-10 per person. Mooring fees in Spanish Town around $30-40 per night.
Devil’s Bay National Park: South of The Baths also contains unique swimming areas and must-see rock formations. A trail through the rocks connects The Baths with Devil’s Bay, meaning you can find similar unique rock formations away from the biggest crowds.
Cost:Included in the baths ticket if you are arriving from that point, so free if you are already there.
North Sound: A large, sheltered bay on the northeastern side of Virgin Gorda. It’s a hub for water sports, including kiteboarding, windsurfing, and wakeboarding. Several resorts and restaurants are located here, including the Bitter End Yacht Club (recently rebuilt after Hurricane Irma), offering plenty of dining and entertainment options.
Cost: Mooring fees in North Sound vary depending on the location. Expect to pay around $40-60 per night. Dining at the resorts can be expensive.
Savannah Bay: A quiet and secluded beach on the east coast of Virgin Gorda. It’s a great place to escape the crowds and enjoy some peace and tranquility. Anchor off the beach and swim ashore.
Cost: Free
Anegada: The Low-Lying Coral Island
Anegada is the only coral island in the BVI, offering a unique landscape and ecosystem. It’s known for its pristine beaches, excellent snorkeling and diving, and delicious lobster.
Loblolly Bay: One of the most beautiful beaches in the BVI, with powdery white sand and turquoise water. It’s a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. Enjoy lunch at the Loblolly Bay Beach Bar. The snorkeling at the eastern end of the beach, around the coral heads, is particularly good. Getting to Anegada requires a longer sail compared to other BVI destinations and needs careful planning, so be sure to do your research and factor travel time accordingly. The waters around Anegada are shallow and reef-filled, requiring careful navigation. If you aren’t an experienced sailor, consider hiring a captain for this leg of your trip.
Cost: Mooring fees are around $30-40 per night. Dinghy docking at the beach is usually free.
Cow Wreck Beach Bar & Grill: Located on the northern shore of Anegada, known for its white sand beach, crystal clear waters, and laid-back atmosphere. Great place to find conch as well.
Cost: Price is on par with similar restaurants in the BVI.
Anegada Lobster: Anegada is famous for its delicious lobster, grilled to perfection. Enjoy a lobster dinner at one of the local restaurants, such as the Anegada Reef Hotel.
Cost: Lobster dinners typically cost around $40-60 per person.
Jost Van Dyke: Foxy’s and the Bubbly Pool
Jost Van Dyke is a small island known for its lively beach bars and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a popular spot for boaters looking to party and relax.
White Bay: Home to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, where the Painkiller cocktail was invented. Spend the day lounging on the beach, swimming in the turquoise water, and enjoying the lively atmosphere. The beach can get very crowded during the day, especially on weekends. Anchor outside the swimming area and wade ashore (hence the “soggy dollar” name).
Cost: Mooring fees are around $30-40 per night. Drinks are priced similarly to other bars in the BVI.
Great Harbour: Home to Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, a BVI institution. Enjoy live music, cold drinks, and a delicious BBQ. Foxy himself is often on hand to entertain guests with his stories and guitar playing.
Cost: Mooring fees are around $30-40 per night. Food and drinks are reasonably priced.
Bubbly Pool: A natural jacuzzi formed by waves crashing over rocks. It’s a fun and unique experience, especially after a few Painkillers. It’s located on the eastern end of Jost Van Dyke and can be reached by a short hike from Diamond Cay.
Cost: Free
Other Notable Spots
Cooper Island: A small island with a charming beach club and restaurant. The Cooper Island Beach Club is known for its sustainable practices and delicious food. Manchioneel Bay offers excellent snorkeling and diving. The rum bar has over 280 rums of all different origins.
Cost: Mooring fees are around $40-50 per night.
Salt Island: Home to the wreck of the RMS Rhone, a famous dive site. Snorkel or dive the wreck and explore the underwater world. The Rhone was sunk in a hurricane in 1867 and is now a marine park. Consider doing a guided dive to get the most out of the experience.
Cost: Mooring fees are around $30-40 per night. Dive trips typically cost around $80-100 per person. There’s also a small fee to help with the upkeep of the National Parks Trust.
Guana Island: This is a true private island resort, with seven white powder beaches and protected reefs. They offer sustainably harvested snorkeling and diving activities. Even if you are not staying here, it is a pristine anchorage destination.
Sandy Cay: A tiny, uninhabited island just off Jost Van Dyke. It’s a perfect spot for a secluded picnic and swim. The island is owned by Laurance Rockefeller’s Estate.
Cost: Free
Practical Tips for Sailing the BVI
To make your BVI sailing adventure even smoother, here are some practical tips:
Best Time to Visit: The best time to sail the BVI is during the dry season, from December to May. The weather is typically sunny and warm, with steady trade winds. The peak season is from December to April, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (November or June) for a balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
Chartering a Boat: Several charter companies operate in the BVI, offering a wide range of boats to suit your needs and budget. Choose between bareboat charters (where you’re responsible for sailing the boat yourself) and crewed charters (where a captain and crew take care of everything). Popular charter companies include The Moorings, Sunsail, and Horizon Yacht Charters. Book your charter well in advance, especially if you’re traveling during peak season. Be sure to research companies and read reviews before making your decision. Consider getting travel insurance that covers charter-related issues, like hurricane damage.
Provisioning: You can provision your boat in Tortola at supermarkets like Riteway or Bobby’s Marketplace. Consider pre-ordering your groceries online for added convenience. Some smaller islands have limited provisioning options, so it’s best to stock up in Tortola before you set sail. Keep in mind that prices in the BVI can be higher than in other destinations.
Navigation: The BVI is generally easy to navigate, with well-marked channels and clear waters. However, it’s essential to have up-to-date charts and a GPS. Consider taking a sailing course or hiring a captain for the first few days if you’re not an experienced sailor. Always be aware of the weather conditions and adjust your route accordingly. Use apps like Navionics to help with navigation.
Mooring and Anchoring: Most bays in the BVI have mooring balls, which are more environmentally friendly than anchoring. However, you’ll need to pay a fee to use them. Arrive early in the day to secure a mooring ball, especially in popular anchorages. If you choose to anchor, make sure to do so in a sandy bottom and avoid damaging coral reefs. Always check your anchor set and monitor your boat’s position. Some areas are designated “no anchor” zones to protect the reefs.
Communication: Cell phone coverage is generally good in the BVI, but it’s a good idea to have a local SIM card or international roaming plan. VHF radios are essential for communicating with other boats and shore-based services. Consider renting a satellite phone for emergencies or remote areas. Use VHF channel 16 for emergencies.
Currency and Payment: The official currency of the BVI is the US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller establishments and mooring fees. ATMs are available in Tortola and Virgin Gorda.
Customs and Immigration: If you’re arriving from another country or leaving the BVI, you’ll need to clear customs and immigration. This can be done at Road Town (Tortola), Soper’s Hole (Tortola), or Spanish Town (Virgin Gorda). Have your passport, boat registration, and other necessary documents ready. Be aware of any import/export restrictions.
Respect the Environment: Protect the BVI’s natural beauty by practicing responsible boating. Avoid using single-use plastics, dispose of trash properly, and never dump sewage in the water. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs. Support local businesses that are committed to sustainability.
A Note on Potential Damages and Insurance
Damage to charter boats is a real possibility, even for experienced sailors. Things can happen – groundings, collisions with docks, equipment malfunctions due to wear and tear – and you’ll be responsible for paying up to the amount of your deductible. Always inspect the boat carefully with a representative of the charter company before you leave and document any pre-existing damage. Consider purchasing supplemental insurance from a third-party provider to cover your deductible in case of an accident. This can offer peace of mind and protect you from unexpected expenses.
Staying Connected: Internet and WiFi
Staying connected in the BVI is generally easy, though internet speeds can vary. Many restaurants and bars offer free WiFi, especially in popular tourist areas like Road Town, Cane Garden Bay, and White Bay. However, the signal can sometimes be weak or unreliable. If you need reliable internet access, consider purchasing a local SIM card with a data plan or renting a portable WiFi hotspot. Be aware that data roaming charges from your home country can be very expensive. Pre-booking a WiFi hotspot through a company that offers BVI coverage can be a good option. Expect to pay around $10-15 per day for a decent data plan.
The Cost of a BVI Sailing Trip
The cost of a BVI sailing trip can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the time of year, the type of boat you charter, and your spending habits. Here’s a rough breakdown of expenses:
Charter Fees: Expect to pay around $3,000 to $15,000 per week for a bareboat charter, depending on the size and type of boat. Catamarans are generally more expensive than monohulls. Crewed charters can cost significantly more, depending on the level of service and the number of crew members.
Provisioning: Budget around $50-100 per person per day for food and drinks, depending on your dining habits. Eating ashore at restaurants will be more expensive than cooking on board.
Mooring Fees: Mooring fees typically range from $30-60 per night. Anchoring is free, but it’s not always possible or desirable in crowded anchorages.
Fuel and Water: Fuel costs will depend on your sailing style and the distances you cover. Water is typically available at marinas for a fee.
Customs and Immigration Fees: Expect to pay around $20-30 per person for departure taxes and other fees.
Activities and Excursions: Budget for activities like diving, snorkeling, and visiting tourist attractions. Entrance fees and tour costs can add up quickly.
Miscellaneous Expenses: Allow for miscellaneous expenses like laundry, ice, souvenirs, and tips.
As a rough estimate, a week-long bareboat charter in the BVI for four people could cost anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000, depending on your choices. Planning and budgeting carefully can help you keep your costs under control.
Essential Packing List
Packing for a BVI sailing trip requires careful planning. Here’s a list of essential items:
- Lightweight, quick-drying clothing
- Swimsuits (at least two)
- Rash guard or sun shirt
- Wide-brimmed hat
- Sunglasses (polarized are best)
- Reef-safe sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Water shoes or sandals with good grip
- Sailing gloves (if you plan to actively sail)
- Waterproof bag or dry bag
- Travel-sized toiletries
- Medications (prescription and over-the-counter)
- First-aid kit
- Passport and other travel documents
- Cash (US dollars)
- Chargers for electronic devices
- Underwater camera (optional)
- Books or e-reader
- Motion sickness medication or remedies (if needed)
- Headlamp or flashlight
FAQ Section
What is the best time of year to sail in the BVI?
The best time to sail in the BVI is during the dry season, from December to May. The weather is typically sunny and warm, with steady trade winds. However, this is also the peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds. Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (November or June) for a balance of good weather and fewer crowds.
Do I need a license to charter a boat in the BVI?
Generally, if you have experience operating a similar-sized vessel in similar conditions, you can charter a boat. However, charter companies may require you to provide proof of sailing experience, such as a sailing license or a resume of your boating experience. They may also require you to take a short checkout sail with one of their instructors to ensure you’re competent. If you don’t have the required experience, you can hire a captain to sail the boat for you.
What type of boat is best for sailing in the BVI?
The best type of boat for sailing in the BVI depends on your preferences and budget. Monohulls are generally more affordable and easier to handle in rougher conditions. Catamarans offer more space and stability, making them a good choice for families or groups. Powerboats are also an option, but they’re less fuel-efficient and less environmentally friendly.
How much does it cost to sail in the BVI?
The cost of a BVI sailing trip can vary greatly depending on several factors, including the time of year, the type of boat you charter, and your spending habits. Expect to pay anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 per week for a bareboat charter for four people. This includes charter fees, provisioning, mooring fees, fuel, and other expenses. It’s possible save a little money by doing some meal prep ahead of time.
How do I get around in the BVI?
The primary mode of transportation in the BVI is by boat. You can also take taxis on some of the larger islands, such as Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Ferries connect some of the islands, but they’re not always the most convenient option. Renting a car is also an option on Tortola and Virgin Gorda, but it’s not necessary if you’re spending most of your time on the water.
References
- British Virgin Islands Tourism Board
- The Moorings
- Sunsail
- Navionics
Ready to set sail in the British Virgin Islands? Don’t just dream about turquoise waters and sun-kissed beaches – start planning your unforgettable adventure today! Research charter companies, map out your dream itinerary, and prepare for the sailing experience of a lifetime. The BVI is waiting, and it’s calling your name. What are you waiting for?
