A Week in the BVI: The Perfect Island Hopping Itinerary

Dreaming of turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and rum punches? A week island hopping through the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is your perfect escape. This itinerary packs in the best of the BVI, from secluded anchorages to lively beach bars, ensuring an unforgettable Caribbean adventure.

Day 1: Arrival in Tortola and Settling into Nanny Cay

Your BVI adventure begins in Tortola, the largest island and home to the Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS). Most international flights connect through San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU). Upon arrival, you’ll likely be whisked away to Nanny Cay, a popular marina known for its calm waters, excellent amenities, and convenient location. This is where many charter companies are based, making it an ideal starting point for your island hopping adventure.

Getting to Nanny Cay: A taxi from the airport to Nanny Cay will cost approximately $20-$30 USD and should take about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Pre-booking a transfer can often save you some hassle.

Accommodation Options: If you’re arriving a day early or prefer a night on land before setting sail, Nanny Cay offers a range of hotels and villas. The Nanny Cay Resort and Marina itself has comfortable rooms with marina views. Alternatively, consider renting a villa nearby for a more private experience.

Provisioning: Before setting sail, it’s crucial to stock up on food and drinks. There’s a well-stocked RiteWay Food Market at Nanny Cay that can cater to most of your needs. Many charter companies also offer provisioning services, taking the work off your hands. Just send them your grocery list in advance, and they’ll have everything waiting for you on board.

Evening in Nanny Cay: Enjoy your first BVI sunset at Peg Legs Beach Bar on Nanny Cay. It’s a laid-back spot with good food, cold drinks, and live music on some nights. The perfect way to kick off your vacation.

Day 2: Sailing to Norman Island and Pirate’s Bight

Today, it’s time to set sail for Norman Island, rumored to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. This uninhabited island is a haven for snorkelers and divers.

Sailing Route: The sail from Nanny Cay to Norman Island is a relatively short and easy one, typically taking around 1.5-2 hours, depending on the wind. The route is mostly open water with stunning views of the BVI coastline.

Snorkeling at The Caves: Norman Island’s highlight is undoubtedly The Caves, a series of underwater grottoes teeming with marine life. Anchor in the Bight and swim or dinghy over to the caves. You’ll be amazed by the colorful coral, schools of fish, and unique rock formations. Remember to bring your snorkeling gear! Expect to see colorful angelfish, small reef sharks, and a variety of other tropical fish. The water is usually very clear making for excellent visibility.

Pirate’s Bight Restaurant & Bar: After snorkeling, head to Pirate’s Bight, a charming restaurant and bar located right on the beach. Enjoy a delicious lunch or a refreshing cocktail while soaking up the sun. They serve up classic Caribbean fare like jerk chicken and fresh seafood. The ambiance is casual and relaxed, making it a perfect place to unwind.

Mooring and Anchorage: Several mooring balls are available in The Bight, making it easy to secure your boat. If mooring balls are full, you can anchor in the sandy bottom, but be mindful of other boats and avoid anchoring on coral reefs. Mooring balls are managed by the National Parks Trust and a small fee applies.

Day 3: Exploring The Indians and Jost Van Dyke

Today’s destination is Jost Van Dyke, famous for its laid-back vibe and legendary beach bars. But first, a stop at The Indians for some world-class snorkeling.

Sailing to The Indians: From Norman Island, sail towards The Indians, a collection of rocky pinnacles that rise dramatically from the sea. The sail is short, usually under an hour. These rocks provides some of the best snorkeling in the BVI. The current can be strong, so be cautious and consider using a dive flag.

Snorkeling at The Indians: This is a must-do for snorkelers and divers. The underwater visibility is excellent (usually 50-70ft), and the marine life is abundant. Keep an eye out for barracudas, sea turtles, and an array of colorful fish. The rock formations create interesting underwater landscapes to explore.

Sailing to Jost Van Dyke: After exploring The Indians, it’s time to sail to Jost Van Dyke. White Bay is the most popular anchorage, but it can get crowded, especially during peak season. Alternatively, consider Great Harbour or Little Harbour for a more secluded experience.

White Bay and The Soggy Dollar Bar: A trip to Jost Van Dyke isn’t complete without visiting The Soggy Dollar Bar in White Bay. This iconic beach bar is the birthplace of the Painkiller cocktail. The tradition is to swim ashore, hence the name “Soggy Dollar”. Relax on the beach, sip on a Painkiller, and enjoy the lively atmosphere. Be sure to try the original Painkiller recipe, which includes Pusser’s Rum.

Great Harbour and Foxy’s: In Great Harbour, you’ll find Foxy’s, another legendary BVI institution. This beach bar is known for its live music, delicious BBQ, and Foxy himself, a local character who often entertains guests with his songs and stories. Expect a lively atmosphere, especially on weekends.

Dinner and Drinks: Both White Bay and Great Harbour offer a variety of dining options. Try Ivan’s Stress Free Bar in White Bay for a more low-key experience. In Great Harbour, check out Rudy’s or Ali’s for local cuisine. The fresh seafood is always a good choice.

Day 4: Exploring Sandy Spit and Green Cay

Today’s itinerary focuses on smaller, more secluded islands near Jost Van Dyke. These little gems offer peace, quiet, and stunning natural beauty.

Sailing to Sandy Spit: A short sail from Jost Van Dyke will bring you to Sandy Spit, a tiny uninhabited island that epitomizes the image of a deserted tropical paradise. It’s nothing more than a small sandbar with a few palm trees, but it’s incredibly picturesque.

Relaxing on Sandy Spit: Spend some time swimming in the crystal-clear water, sunbathing on the white sand, and taking photos of this iconic BVI location. There are no facilities on Sandy Spit, so bring everything you need with you, including water, sunscreen, and snacks. It’s the perfect spot for a secluded picnic.

Sailing to Green Cay: From Sandy Spit, sail to Green Cay, another small island known for its excellent snorkeling and stunning scenery. This is another uninhabited island allowing you to get off the boat and enjoy nature without the crowds.

Snorkeling at Green Cay: The waters around Green Cay are teeming with marine life, including sea turtles, rays, and colorful fish. Anchor in the calm waters and explore the coral reefs that surround the island. The snorkeling here is generally less crowded than at The Indians.

Alternative: Guana Island: For a luxurious day trip from near Green Cay, consider Guana Island. This private island resort offers day passes that include access to its pristine beaches, hiking trails, and fine dining options. However, you’ll need to book in advance and be prepared for a higher price tag.

Anchorage Options: Return to Jost Van Dyke for the night or find a quiet anchorage near Green Cay. Little Harbour on Jost Van Dyke is a good option for a more secluded evening.

Day 5: Virgin Gorda and The Baths

Today, you’ll head to Virgin Gorda, home to the world-famous Baths, a geological wonder of massive granite boulders and crystal-clear pools.

Sailing to Virgin Gorda: The sail from Jost Van Dyke to Virgin Gorda is a bit longer, generally taking around 2-3 hours, depending on the wind and your departure point. Consider leaving early to secure a mooring ball at The Baths.

Exploring The Baths: The Baths are a must-see attraction in the BVI. These massive granite boulders create a labyrinth of caves, tunnels, and pools, perfect for exploring and swimming. Wear sturdy shoes as the terrain can be uneven and slippery. Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season. Arrive early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest times.

Top of the Baths Restaurant & Bar: After exploring The Baths, head up to the Top of the Baths Restaurant & Bar for lunch or a refreshing drink. The views from here are spectacular. They offer a variety of dishes, from casual snacks to more substantial meals.

Spanish Town: After The Bath’s head to Spanish Town, the main town on Virgin Gorda, and explore the local culture. Spend some time in Spanish Town, where you can explore the local shops and restaurants.

North Sound: Another great spot on Virgin Gorda is North Sound. This large, sheltered bay offers a variety of activities, including watersports, fine dining, and luxury resorts.

Mooring and Anchorage: Mooring balls are available at The Baths and in nearby bays. If anchoring, be mindful of the sensitive marine environment and avoid anchoring on coral reefs.

Day 6: Anegada and Loblolly Bay

Today, you’ll embark on a longer sail to Anegada, the only coral island in the BVI. This island is known for its beautiful beaches, flamingos, and excellent snorkeling and diving.

Sailing to Anegada: The sail to Anegada is the longest of the trip, typically taking around 3-4 hours. The island is relatively flat and can be difficult to spot from a distance. Pay close attention to your navigation and be aware of the Horseshoe Reef, a large and treacherous reef that surrounds the island. Hiring a local pilot to guide you through the channel is highly recommended, especially if you’re not familiar with the area.

Loblolly Bay: Anegada’s highlight is Loblolly Bay, a long stretch of white sand beach with crystal-clear water. The beach is lined with palm trees, providing plenty of shade. It’s the perfect spot for relaxing, swimming, and sunbathing.

Snorkeling at Loblolly Bay: The snorkeling at Loblolly Bay is excellent. The reef is close to shore and teeming with marine life. You can expect to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and maybe even a nurse shark. The water is usually very calm and clear, making for ideal snorkeling conditions.

Flamingo Pond: Anegada is home to a large population of flamingos. Take a tour to see these magnificent birds in their natural habitat. The Flamingo Pond is located in the west end of the island.

Anegada Lobster: Anegada is famous for its lobster. Enjoy a delicious lobster dinner at one of the local restaurants. The Anegada Reef Hotel and Potters by the Sea are popular choices. Be sure to try the grilled lobster, it’s a local specialty.

Anchorage: Anegada offers several anchorage options, including Setting Point and the anchorage off Loblolly Bay. Be sure to check the weather forecast before anchoring, as Anegada is exposed to the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 7: Return to Tortola and Departure

Today is the final day of your BVI adventure. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and then set sail back to Tortola.

Sailing back to Tortola: The sail from Anegada back to Tortola will take approximately 3-4 hours, depending on the wind and your destination marina. Plan your departure accordingly to allow time for refueling and checking out of your charter.

Refueling and Check-out: Arrive back at your charter base in Tortola (likely Nanny Cay or Wickham’s Cay) with plenty of time to spare. Refuel your boat and complete the check-out process with your charter company. This typically involves inspecting the boat for any damage and settling any outstanding bills.

Last BVI Meal: Enjoy one last BVI meal at one of the restaurants in Nanny Cay or Road Town. Embrace the last moments of your trip.

Departure: Arrange for a taxi to take you back to the Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport for your flight home. Reflect on the incredible memories you’ve created during your week in the BVI.

FAQ Section

What is the best time to visit the BVI? The best time to visit the BVI is during the dry season, from December to May. The weather is typically sunny and dry, with calm seas. The peak season is from mid-December to April, so expect higher prices during this time.

What currency is used in the BVI? The official currency of the BVI is the US dollar.

Do I need a passport to enter the BVI? Yes, you will need a passport with at least six months of validity remaining to enter the BVI. Check the latest entry protocols as they can change

What should I pack for a BVI sailing trip? Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, reef-safe sunscreen, insect repellent, sturdy shoes for exploring, and a waterproof bag for your valuables. A light rain jacket can also be useful.

Do I need a visa to enter the BVI? Visa requirements vary depending on your nationality. Check with the British Virgin Islands Immigration Department for the latest visa requirements.

How much does a BVI sailing trip cost? The cost of a BVI sailing trip can vary widely depending on the time of year, the type of boat you charter, and your spending habits. A week-long bareboat charter can range from $3,000 to $15,000, excluding food, drinks, and mooring fees. Crewed charters can be significantly more expensive.

What type of boat should I charter? The type of boat you charter will depend on your budget, the size of your group, and your sailing experience. Catamarans are popular choices for their stability and spaciousness. Monohulls are generally more affordable but may offer less living space.

Is it safe to drink the tap water in the BVI? It’s generally not recommended to drink the tap water in the BVI. Bottled water is widely available.

Are there mosquitoes in the BVI? Yes, there are mosquitoes in the BVI. Insect repellent is essential, especially in the evenings.

What are the mooring fees in the BVI? Mooring fees vary depending on the location and the size of your boat. Expect to pay around $30-$40 per night for a mooring ball. Parks such as the Baths and The Indians use the revenue from mooring fees to help support their conservation measures.

References

British Virgin Islands Tourist Board
National Parks Trust of the Virgin Islands
Cruising Guide to the Virgin Islands

Ready to trade your everyday routine for a week of sun-soaked adventures? Stop dreaming and start planning your BVI island hopping escape now! Contact a reputable charter company, book your flights, and prepare for an unforgettable experience. The turquoise waters and endless possibilities of the British Virgin Islands are waiting for you. What are you waiting for?