Ready to ditch the crowded anchorages and discover the real British Virgin Islands? This itinerary takes you beyond the typical tourist trail, uncovering hidden gems, secluded beaches, and authentic Caribbean experiences. Forget jostling for space – we’re focusing on peaceful anchorages, local culture, and unforgettable moments that will make your BVI sailing trip truly special.
Setting Sail for Secret Shores: Customizing Your BVI Adventure
Before we dive into the detailed itinerary, let’s talk customization. The beauty of a BVI sailing trip is its flexibility. This itinerary is a suggestion, a framework. Feel free to adjust it based on your interests, sailing experience, and the length of your charter. Are you a hardcore diver? We’ll point you to the best sites around Anegada. Foodie fanatic? We’ll highlight the local restaurants and beach BBQs you can’t miss. Prefer absolute seclusion? We’ll steer you towards the quieter islands and anchorages.
Also consider the time of year. The BVI enjoys beautiful weather year-round, but peak season (December-April) means higher prices and more crowded anchorages. Shoulder seasons (May-June and September-November) offer a sweet spot – pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and often lower charter rates. Hurricane season officially runs from June 1st to November 30th, so keep an eye on weather forecasts if you’re traveling during this time. Many charter companies offer insurance options specifically for hurricane-related disruptions.
Day 1: Tortola – Nanny Cay to Norman Island – The Caves and Pirates Bight
Your adventure begins in Tortola, most likely at Nanny Cay Marina, one of the largest and most well-equipped marinas in the BVI. After checking in with your charter company (consider companies like The Moorings or Sunsail for a wide range of boats) and provisioning, it’s time to set sail. The first leg is a short and easy sail to Norman Island, said to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. This allows you to get acquainted with your boat and the BVI waters.
The Caves: Norman Island is famous for its underwater caves, perfect for snorkeling and diving. Anchor in the Bight and dinghy over to the caves. Bring a flashlight or headlamp to fully appreciate the interior formations. The water is crystal clear, and you’ll likely see a variety of colorful fish and coral. Be mindful of boat traffic and currents when swimming near the caves.
Pirates Bight: After exploring the caves, head ashore to Pirates Bight. This lively beach bar and restaurant offers a fun atmosphere, good food, and strong cocktails. They often have live music in the evenings. It’s a great spot to kick back, relax, and enjoy the sunset. The cost is relatively moderate – expect to pay around $20-$30 per person for a meal and drinks. Alternatively, you can grill onboard your boat for a more private experience. Anchorages in the Bight can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so arrive early or consider using a mooring buoy (usually around $30-$40 per night).
Day 2: Norman Island to Peter Island – Deadman’s Bay Tranquility
From Norman Island, set sail for Peter Island, a privately owned island offering a luxurious retreat and some stunning anchorages. While parts of Peter Island are exclusive to resort guests, Deadman’s Bay is a public beach and a fantastic spot to spend the day.
Deadman’s Bay: This long, white-sand beach is considered one of the most beautiful in the BVI. The water is calm and clear, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and paddleboarding. Anchoring is available in the bay, but be sure to check the depths and swing radius, as the bay can get crowded. Alternatively, you can pick up a mooring buoy. There aren’t any restaurants right on Deadman’s Bay (unless you venture towards the Peter Island Resort), so pack a picnic lunch and plenty of drinks. This is all about embracing the serenity and enjoying a day of relaxation.
Little Deadman’s Bay: For an even more secluded experience, consider exploring Little Deadman’s Bay, a smaller beach located just around the corner from Deadman’s Bay. This is a great spot for snorkeling and escaping the crowds (if any). Be aware that the access to Little Deadman’s Bay can be a bit tricky, depending on the swell, so use caution when dinghying ashore.
Day 3: Peter Island to Cooper Island – Manchioneel Bay and the Rum Bar
Head towards Cooper Island, known for its eco-friendly resort and fantastic snorkeling. This island offers a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere.
Manchioneel Bay: This is the main anchorage on Cooper Island. The water is calm and protected, making it a popular spot for overnight stays. Moorings are available for rent (expect to pay around $30-$40 per night), and anchoring is possible, but be mindful of the seagrass beds. Cooper Island Beach Club is the focal point of the bay, offering a restaurant, bar, and small shop.
Cooper Island Rum Bar: A must-visit! This bar boasts an impressive selection of rums from around the Caribbean. Sample different varieties, learn about the history of rum, and enjoy delicious rum-based cocktails. They also offer rum tasting sessions. Prices are reasonable, with cocktails ranging from $8-$12. The food at the Beach Club is also excellent, with a focus on fresh seafood and local ingredients. Their conch fritters are a local favorite.
Snorkeling and Diving: The waters around Cooper Island are teeming with marine life. Great snorkeling spots can be found along the reef on the south side of Manchioneel Bay and around Cistern Point. You can also arrange diving excursions through the Beach Club. Expect to see colorful fish, coral, sea turtles, and maybe even a nurse shark.
Day 4: Cooper Island to Salt Island – The Wreck of the Rhone
A short hop from Cooper Island takes you to Salt Island, famous for the Wreck of the Rhone, a Royal Mail Steamer that sank in 1867 during a hurricane. This is a world-class dive site and a must-see for any diving enthusiast.
The Wreck of the Rhone Marine Park: The entire area around the Rhone is a protected marine park, ensuring the preservation of this historical wreck and the surrounding marine life. You’ll need to pay a park fee to dive or snorkel here (around $10 per person). Several dive operators in the BVI offer guided dives to the Rhone, which is highly recommended, especially for less experienced divers. The wreck is split into two main sections, the bow and the stern, which lie in depths ranging from 20 to 80 feet. Experienced divers can penetrate the wreck and explore its interior, while snorkelers can enjoy the shallower sections.
Salt Island History: Salt Island is also interesting for its salt ponds, which have been harvested for centuries. The island’s inhabitants still collect salt annually, and the BVI government receives a symbolic one-dollar payment each year as rent for the salt ponds. You can visit the salt ponds and learn about the island’s history, but be sure to be respectful of the local community.
Day 5: Salt Island to Virgin Gorda – The Baths and Savannah Bay
Sail north to Virgin Gorda, the third-largest of the British Virgin Islands. Known for its stunning natural beauty, Virgin Gorda offers a variety of experiences, from the iconic boulders of The Baths to secluded beaches and upscale resorts.
The Baths: No trip to Virgin Gorda is complete without visiting The Baths. These unique geological formations consist of massive granite boulders scattered along the shoreline, creating hidden grottos, pools, and tunnels. It’s like a natural playground. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds from cruise ships and daytrippers. The entrance fee to The Baths National Park is minimal (around $3 per person). Wear sturdy shoes, as you’ll be doing some climbing and scrambling over the rocks. Don’t forget your waterproof camera to capture the stunning scenery.
Savannah Bay: After exploring The Baths, escape the crowds and head to Savannah Bay, a beautiful, undeveloped beach on the north side of Virgin Gorda. This is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The water is calm and clear, and the beach is usually deserted. There are no facilities on Savannah Bay, so bring your own food and drinks. Access to Savannah Bay is by boat or a short taxi ride from Spanish Town.
Day 6: Virgin Gorda – Exploring North Sound
Dedicate a day to exploring North Sound, a large protected harbor on the northeastern side of Virgin Gorda. This area is home to several resorts, restaurants, and water sports facilities.
Bitter End Yacht Club (BEYC): The Bitter End Yacht Club has been rebuilt after Hurricane Irma and is a fantastic destination. Enjoy the restaurants, bars, and activities such as sailing lessons, windsurfing, and paddleboarding. It is now fully open and ready to accommodate tourists.
Saba Rock: This tiny island is famous for its lively bar and restaurant. Known for its tarpon feeding, Saba Rock offers a unique experience. Watch as the giant tarpon swarm around the dock, eagerly awaiting their evening meal. The bar also offers stunning views of the North Sound.
Leverick Bay Resort & Marina: This resort offers a variety of amenities, including a restaurant, bar, pool, and water sports rentals. It’s a great place to spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, or trying out a new water sport. Their Hog Heaven restaurant, located up the hill, offers breathtaking views and delicious BBQ.
Day 7: Virgin Gorda to Anegada – Lobster and Seclusion
Anegada is the only coral island in the BVI and feels miles away from the bustling anchorages of the other islands. It’s known for its pristine beaches, abundant wildlife, and delicious lobster.
Setting Sail to Anegada: The sail to Anegada is longer and requires careful navigation due to the reefs. Many charter companies require experienced skippers or provide a captain for this leg. The channel is well-marked, but it’s crucial to stay within the buoys. Check the weather forecast before setting sail, as conditions can change quickly in this area.
Loblolly Bay: This is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The sand is powdery white, the water is crystal clear, and the palm trees provide plenty of shade. Snorkeling is excellent along the reef, and you can often see flamingos in the salt ponds behind the beach. There are a couple of beach bars and restaurants on Loblolly Bay, offering fresh seafood and cold drinks.
Anegada Reef Hotel: This hotel is a local institution, known for its delicious lobster dinners. Reserve in advance, especially during peak season. They catch the lobster fresh daily and grill it to perfection. It’s a true culinary experience.
Cow Wreck Beach: Named after a shipwreck that occurred here long ago, Cow Wreck Beach is another stunning stretch of sand on Anegada. The water is shallow and calm, making it perfect for swimming and wading. The beach bar here is laid-back and friendly, offering a relaxed atmosphere and beautiful views. Be prepared for a potentially bumpy ride from the anchorage if using a taxi, as the roads on Anegada are not always in the best condition.
Day 8: Anegada to Jost Van Dyke – White Bay and Foxy’s
From Anegada, sail back towards the more central BVI and head for Jost Van Dyke, a laid-back island known for its lively beach bars and beautiful beaches.
White Bay: This beach is home to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, where the Painkiller cocktail was invented. It’s called the Soggy Dollar because you have to swim ashore from your boat, so your money gets wet. The atmosphere is always lively, with music playing and people mingling on the beach. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. Anchor or pick up a mooring buoy, and be mindful of other boats.
Foxy’s Tamarind Bar: Located in Great Harbour, Foxy’s is another iconic BVI bar. Foxy himself is a legendary character, known for his storytelling and musical talents. The bar is decorated with memorabilia and flags from around the world. They often have live music and special events. The food here is also good, with a focus on Caribbean cuisine.
Sandy Cay: A short dinghy ride from Jost Van Dyke, Sandy Cay is a small, uninhabited island with a beautiful beach and lush vegetation. It’s a perfect spot for a quiet escape and some excellent snorkeling. This island was donated by Laurance Rockefeller to the National Park Trust. It provides an amazing place to get away from larger crowds.
Day 9: Jost Van Dyke to Guana Island – A True Escape
Guana Island is a private island, but its beaches are generally accessible and remarkably untouched. Note there is no easy access and it is encouraged to call the island for more information prior to approaching.
The East Coast has a couple of excellent beaches, such as Muskmelon Bay. Take in the wild feel of this island and enjoy the relative solitude, which is rare among the British Virgin Islands. This island is a true nature sanctuary so be especially mindful of the wildlife and take care to disturb the natural environment as little as possible.
Day 10: Guana Island to Scrub Island – Luxury and Convenience
From your previous relatively untouched anchorage, Scrub Island is a resort, but that means easy access to services, which allows you to restock necessities and refresh before moving on.
Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina is a quick stop towards heading back to your charter base in Tortola. You can enjoy a luxurious dockside restaurant and fill up on water and ice and prepare yourself for your last day on the water.
Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina
Day 11: Scrub Island to Tortola – Return to Base
Sadly, it’s time to return to reality. Enjoy a final morning swim or snorkel before setting sail for the marina in Tortola. Allow plenty of time to refuel, check out, and repack your belongings. Take one last look at the stunning BVI coastline before you leave, and start planning your next trip back!
FAQ Section
What’s the best time of year to sail in the BVI?
The best time to sail in the BVI is generally from mid-December to April. This is peak season, with warm, dry weather and consistent trade winds. However, it’s also the busiest and most expensive time to visit. May-June and September-November offer a sweet spot with pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and often lower prices. Hurricane season is officially June 1st to November 30th, so keep an eye on weather forecasts if traveling during this time.
Do I need a license to charter a boat in the BVI?
Requirements vary depending on the charter company and the size of the boat. Generally, if you’re bareboat chartering (without a captain), you’ll need to demonstrate sufficient sailing experience and qualifications. This may include providing a sailing resume, holding a recognized sailing certificate (such as ASA or RYA), or taking a practical sailing test. If you’re hiring a captain, you don’t need a license.
What should I pack for a sailing trip in the BVI?
Pack light, focusing on casual, comfortable clothing suitable for warm weather. Essentials include swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, a rash guard, lightweight shirts and shorts, a waterproof jacket, and comfortable shoes (boat shoes or sandals). A headlamp or flashlight is also useful, as is insect repellent. Don’t forget your passport, driver’s license, and any necessary sailing certifications.
How much does a BVI sailing trip cost?
The cost of a BVI sailing trip varies widely depending on the type of boat, the time of year, the duration of the charter, and your spending habits. Bareboat charters can range from $3,000 to $20,000+ per week, depending on the size and age of the boat. Crewed charters are more expensive, but they include a captain and often a cook. Factor in additional costs such as provisioning, mooring fees, park fees, fuel, and dining out.
What’s the best way to get around the islands?
The primary way to get around the islands is by boat, either your charter boat or a ferry. Taxis are available on the larger islands, but they can be expensive. Rental cars are also available, but driving can be challenging due to narrow and winding roads.
Is it safe to drink the water in the BVI?
It’s generally not recommended to drink the tap water in the BVI. Most charter boats have water makers, or you can buy bottled water at supermarkets and marinas.
What currency is used in the BVI?
The official currency of the BVI is the US dollar.
References
British Virgin Islands Tourist Board
National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands
Ready for Your BVI Adventure?
This itinerary is just a starting point. The British Virgin Islands are waiting to be explored, offering endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. Don’t just dream about it – start planning your sailing trip today! Research charter companies, book your flights, and start packing your bags. The secret shores of the BVI are calling!
