Dreaming of turquoise waters, gentle breezes, and island hopping? Look no further than the British Virgin Islands (BVI) for an unforgettable sailing adventure. This guide dives deep into the best activities the BVI has to offer, from secluded snorkeling spots to vibrant beach bars, ensuring you make the most of your Caribbean escape.
Setting Sail: Chartering Your Course
Before even dipping your toes in the water, you need a vessel! Chartering a sailboat is the most popular way to experience the BVI. You have two main options: bareboat charter (you captain the boat yourself) or crewed charter (a captain and possibly a cook/crew are provided).
Bareboat Charter: This is ideal for experienced sailors with proper certifications (usually an ICC or RYA Day Skipper qualification is required). You have complete freedom to choose your itinerary. Costs vary dramatically depending on the size and age of the boat, the time of year (high season is December-April), and additional options like insurance. Expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000+ per week. Companies like The Moorings and Sunsail are well-known and offer a wide selection of boats.
Crewed Charter: If you prefer to relax and let someone else handle the navigation and cooking, a crewed charter is the way to go. This is a more luxurious option, but comes at a premium price. Costs can range from $10,000 to upwards of $50,000+ per week, depending on the size of the yacht, the crew, and the inclusions. Some popular options include catamarans with water toys, gourmet meals, and personalized service. Discuss your preferences with the charter company upfront to tailor your experience.
Practical Tip: Book your charter well in advance, especially if traveling during peak season. Consider travel insurance that covers charter cancellations and medical emergencies.
Island Hopping Adventures: Must-See Destinations
The BVI are a cluster of over 50 islands and cays, each with its own unique character. Here’s a curated list of must-visit spots:
Tortola: The Heart of the BVI
As the largest island, Tortola is the BVI’s main entry point and offers a mix of natural beauty and modern amenities.
Activities:
- Cane Garden Bay: Famous for its pristine beach and laid-back atmosphere, Cane Garden Bay is a perfect spot for swimming, sunbathing, and sipping on rum punches. Numerous beach bars line the shore, offering live music and delicious Caribbean cuisine. Visit Myett’s for a lively atmosphere or Quito’s Gazebo for a more romantic setting.
- Sage Mountain National Park: Hike to the highest point in the BVI for panoramic views of the surrounding islands. The trails are relatively easy to navigate, making it a great option for all fitness levels. The park is a lush rainforest, offering a refreshing escape from the beach.
- Road Town: Explore the capital city, Road Town, for shopping, dining, and historical sites. Visit the Virgin Islands Folk Museum to learn about the islands’ rich history and culture.
- Smuggler’s Cove: A secluded and beautiful beach perfect for snorkeling and escaping the crowds. The water is calm and clear, making it ideal for beginners. You can reach Smuggler’s Cove by a bumpy dirt road, but the reward is well worth the effort.
Dining Recommendations: Pusser’s Road Town Pub, D’Coal Pot (local cuisine), and Brandywine Estate Restaurant (fine dining).
Virgin Gorda: The Baths and Beyond
Virgin Gorda is renowned for its geological wonders and upscale resorts.
Activities:
- The Baths: This is the most iconic attraction in the BVI. Explore the massive granite boulders that form natural tidal pools, grottoes, and tunnels. Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds from cruise ships. Wear sturdy shoes and be prepared to climb over and under rocks. A small fee is charged to enter the Baths National Park.
- Devil’s Bay National Park: After exploring the Baths, take a short walk to Devil’s Bay, a beautiful beach with calm waters and excellent snorkeling. The Baths and Devil’s Bay are connected by a series of trails.
- Savannah Bay: A long, secluded beach with soft white sand and turquoise waters. It’s a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
- Little Dix Bay: Home to the Rosewood Little Dix Bay resort, this is a luxurious and tranquil bay known for its pristine beach and crystal-clear waters.
- The Bitter End Yacht Club: Rebuilt after Hurricane Irma, this legendary yacht club is a hub for sailors and water sports enthusiasts. Enjoy waterfront dining, live music, and various water activities.
Rosewood Little Dix Bay (Virgin Gorda)
Dining Recommendations: The Bitter End Yacht Club, CocoMaya (Asian-inspired cuisine), and Hog Heaven (BBQ with stunning views).
Jost Van Dyke: The Party Island
Jost Van Dyke is famous for its lively beach bars and laid-back atmosphere. It’s a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true Caribbean vibe.
Activities:
- White Bay: Home to the Soggy Dollar Bar, White Bay is the quintessential Caribbean beach bar experience. Enjoy the famous “Painkiller” cocktail, swim in the turquoise waters, and soak up the sun. The tradition is to swim ashore from your boat to keep your dollars from getting wet, hence the name “Soggy Dollar.”
- Great Harbour: Home to Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, Great Harbour is another popular spot for beach bars and live music. Foxy’s is known for its legendary New Year’s Eve party.
- Sandy Spit: A tiny uninhabited island with a pristine beach and crystal-clear waters. It’s the perfect spot for a picnic and a swim.
- Bubbly Pool: A natural jacuzzi formed by crashing waves. It’s a unique and fun experience, especially when the surf is up.
Dining Recommendations: Soggy Dollar Bar (White Bay), Foxy’s (Great Harbour), and Corsairs (Great Harbour).
Anegada: The Hidden Gem
Anegada is the only coral island in the BVI and is known for its secluded beaches, abundant wildlife, and fresh lobster.
Activities:
- Loblolly Bay: A long, pristine beach with calm waters and excellent snorkeling. You can often spot flamingos in the nearby salt ponds.
- Cow Wreck Beach: Named after a shipwrecked cargo of cow bones, Cow Wreck Beach is a beautiful and secluded beach with a laid-back atmosphere. The beach bar serves delicious food and drinks.
- Flamingo Pond: A large salt pond where you can see hundreds of flamingos.
- Anegada Reef Hotel: A popular spot for sailors and tourists alike. Enjoy waterfront dining, live music, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Dining Recommendations: Anegada Reef Hotel, Cow Wreck Beach Bar, and Pomato Point Restaurant.
Underwater Adventures: Snorkeling and Diving Hotspots
The BVI boasts some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean. The clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and abundant marine life make it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.
Snorkeling Sites:
- The Indians: A group of four rocky pinnacles rising from the sea, The Indians offer excellent snorkeling with abundant fish, coral, and sea turtles.
- The Caves: Located near Norman Island (inspiration for Treasure Island!), The Caves are a series of underwater caves and tunnels perfect for snorkeling and exploring.
- Monkey Point: Located on Guana Island, Monkey Point is a popular spot for snorkeling with sea turtles.
- Cane Garden Bay: The calm waters and shallow reefs in Cane Garden Bay make it a great spot for beginner snorkelers.
Diving Sites:
- RMS Rhone National Park: The wreck of the Royal Mail Steamer Rhone is one of the most famous dive sites in the Caribbean. The ship sank in 1867 during a hurricane and is now home to a variety of marine life.
- Chikuzen: A Japanese refrigerator ship that was sunk intentionally to create an artificial reef. It’s now home to a variety of fish, coral, and sea turtles.
- Alice in Wonderland: A dive site with massive mushroom-shaped coral formations.
Practical Tip: Consider taking a guided snorkeling or diving tour to learn about the local marine life and ensure your safety. Several reputable dive operators are based in the BVI.
Beyond the Beach: Other Activities to Explore
While sailing and water activities are the main draws, the BVI offers other activities for those looking for a change of pace.
- Hiking: Explore the trails of Sage Mountain National Park on Tortola or hike to the top of Gorda Peak on Virgin Gorda for stunning views.
- Fishing: Charter a fishing boat and try your luck at catching tuna, marlin, or wahoo.
- Spa Treatments: Indulge in a relaxing spa treatment at one of the many luxury resorts.
- Shopping: Browse the shops in Road Town for souvenirs, local crafts, and duty-free goods.
- Rum Tasting: Visit the Callwood Rum Distillery on Tortola to learn about the rum-making process and sample some local rum.
Navigating the BVI: Essential Tips
Planning a sailing trip to the BVI requires some forethought. Here are some essential tips:
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit the BVI is during the dry season, from December to April. The weather is sunny and dry, and the temperatures are comfortable.
- Currency: The official currency of the BVI is the US dollar.
- Language: The official language is English.
- Communication: Cell phone service is generally good throughout the BVI. Many restaurants and bars offer free Wi-Fi.
- Provisioning: Stock up on groceries and supplies at a supermarket in Tortola before setting sail. You can also find smaller grocery stores on other islands.
- Moorings and Anchorages: The BVI has numerous mooring buoys and anchorages. Be sure to check the charts and sailing guides for information on depths and hazards. A National Parks permit is required to use mooring buoys in certain areas.
- Customs and Immigration: You’ll need to clear customs and immigration when entering and leaving the BVI.
- What to Pack: Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes. Bring a waterproof bag to protect your belongings from the water.
Sustainable Sailing: Respecting the Environment
The BVI’s natural beauty is its greatest asset. It’s important to practice sustainable sailing to protect the environment for future generations.
- Use reef-safe sunscreen: Traditional sunscreens contain chemicals that can harm coral reefs. Choose a reef-safe sunscreen that does not contain oxybenzone or octinoxate.
- Avoid anchoring on coral reefs: Anchor in sandy areas to avoid damaging coral reefs.
- Dispose of trash properly: Do not litter. Dispose of trash in designated receptacles.
- Conserve water: Water is precious. Conserve water whenever possible.
- Support local businesses: Support local businesses that are committed to sustainable practices.
Sample Itinerary: A Week in Paradise
This is just a suggested itinerary, feel free to customize it based on your interests and preferences:
Day 1: Tortola – Road Town/Cane Garden Bay
Arrive in Tortola, clear customs, and provision your boat. Set sail for Cane Garden Bay for a relaxing afternoon on the beach and enjoy the sunset with a rum punch.
Day 2: Jost Van Dyke – White Bay/Great Harbour
Sail to Jost Van Dyke and spend the day exploring White Bay and Great Harbour. Enjoy lunch at the Soggy Dollar Bar and dinner at Foxy’s.
Day 3: Sandy Cay/Guana Island – Snorkeling & Relaxation
Visit Sandy Cay for a picnic and swim, then head to Guana Island for snorkeling at Monkey Point. Anchor overnight in a secluded bay.
Day 4: Virgin Gorda – The Baths/Devil’s Bay
Sail to Virgin Gorda and spend the day exploring The Baths and Devil’s Bay. Have dinner at CocoMaya.
Day 5: Anegada – Loblolly Bay/Cow Wreck Beach
Head to Anegada for a day of exploring the island’s secluded beaches and enjoying fresh lobster.
Day 6: Norman Island – The Caves/Pirates Bight
Sail back towards Tortola and stop at Norman Island to snorkel The Caves and enjoy lunch at Pirates Bight.
Day 7: Return to Tortola
Return to your charter base in Tortola, refuel, and disembark.
Budgeting Your BVI Sailing Trip
The cost of a BVI sailing trip can vary considerably depending on your choices. Here’s a breakdown of potential expenses:
- Charter Fees: $3,000 – $50,000+ per week (depending on boat size, season, and crew)
- Provisioning: $500 – $1,500 per week (food, drinks, and supplies)
- Mooring Fees: $30 – $50 per night
- National Parks Fees: $5 per person per day (for certain areas)
- Fuel: $200 – $500 per week (depending on usage)
- Dockage Fees: $1 – $5 per foot per night (if docking at a marina)
- Dining Out: $50 – $150 per person per day
- Activities: $50 – $200 per person per day (snorkeling tours, diving, etc.)
- Insurance: Varies depending on coverage
Practical Tip: Meal planning and cooking onboard can significantly reduce your dining expenses. Take advantage of happy hour specials at beach bars to save on drinks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to bareboat charter in the BVI?
Typically, you’ll need an International Certificate of Competence (ICC) or an RYA Day Skipper qualification (or equivalent). Check with the charter company for their specific requirements.
Do I need a visa to enter the BVI?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Check with the British Virgin Islands Immigration Department or your country’s embassy for the latest information. Official Website
Is it safe to drink the water in the BVI?
It’s generally recommended to drink bottled water to avoid any potential stomach issues.
What is the best way to get around the BVI if I’m not sailing?
Ferries are the most common way to travel between the islands. You can also hire taxis or rent cars on some of the larger islands.
Are there any dangers to be aware of while sailing in the BVI?
Be aware of strong currents, especially in narrow channels. Pay attention to weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden squalls. Protect yourself from the sun and stay hydrated. It is also advisable to familiarise yourself with local cruising permits.
What kind of marine life can I expect to see in the BVI?
You can expect to see a variety of fish, coral, sea turtles, dolphins, and occasionally whales.
References
- British Virgin Islands Tourism Board.
- The Moorings Charter Company.
- Sunsail Charter Company.
Ready to make your Caribbean dreams a reality? Start planning your BVI sailing adventure today! Contact a reputable charter company, book your flights, and prepare to be mesmerized by the beauty and tranquility of the British Virgin Islands. This isn’t just a vacation; it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you’ve sailed away. What are you waiting for? Your island adventure awaits!
