The British Virgin Islands (BVI) offer a sailing paradise, renowned for their calm waters, consistent trade winds, and stunning anchorages. Selecting the right anchorage can significantly enhance your sailing experience, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay. This article delves into some of the best anchorages the BVI has to offer, providing practical tips and insights to help you make the most of your sailing adventure.
Understanding BVI Anchorages: A Primer
Before diving into specific locations, let’s cover some basics. BVI anchorages are generally well-protected, but it’s crucial to consider factors like prevailing winds, swell, and seabed type. Many anchorages have mooring balls available, managed by the National Parks Trust, and using these is often preferable to dropping anchor to protect the reefs. Mooring fees typically range from $30 to $55 per night, depending on the size of your boat. It’s essential to carry sufficient cash, as not all locations accept credit cards. Always check the latest BVI official notices for updates on mooring availability and any park regulations.
Norman Island: The Treasure Island Experience
Norman Island, said to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s “Treasure Island,” is a must-visit. The most popular anchorage here is The Bight, a well-sheltered harbor on the island’s western side. The Bight offers a wide range of mooring balls, but it can get crowded, especially during peak season. The seabed is primarily sand, making for good anchoring if the moorings are full.
What to do: Snorkel or dive at The Caves, located on the western tip of Norman Island. These underwater caves are teeming with marine life and offer an incredible snorkeling experience. Don’t miss the chance to have a drink and a bite to eat at Pirates Bight Restaurant & Bar, located right on the beach. You can also take a dinghy ride along the shoreline to explore hidden coves and beaches.
Cost: Mooring fees are approximately $40-$55. Dinghy dockage at Pirates Bight is usually complimentary for patrons. Meals and drinks at Pirates Bight can range from $20-$50 per person.
Directions: Approach The Bight from the west, paying attention to charted depths. Follow the mooring ball assignment instructions provided by the mooring operators. The GPS coordinates for The Bight are roughly 18°19.6’N, 64°36.2’W.
Peter Island: Luxury and Tranquility
Peter Island offers a more exclusive and tranquil sailing experience. Deadman’s Bay is a beautiful anchorage with a long, white-sand beach and the luxurious Peter Island Resort. Mooring balls are available, and anchoring is permitted in some areas. The water is crystal clear, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.
What to do: Indulge in a spa treatment or a fine dining experience at the Peter Island Resort (reservations required). Relax on the beach and soak up the sun. Snorkel along the reef at the eastern end of the bay. Take a hike on one of the island’s trails for stunning views.
Cost: Mooring fees are around $40-$55. Resort access and activities can be expensive, with spa treatments starting at $150 and dinner at $100+ per person. Anchoring is free if you choose not to use a mooring ball.
Directions: Approach Deadman’s Bay from the south, avoiding the reefs along the shoreline. Follow the mooring ball assignment instructions. The GPS coordinates are approximately 18°21.3’N, 64°31.5’W.
Cooper Island: Eco-Friendly Delight
Cooper Island offers a more laid-back and eco-conscious atmosphere. Manchioneel Bay is a popular anchorage with a selection of mooring balls. The Cooper Island Beach Club is a highlight, featuring a rum bar, restaurant, and small boutique. The island is committed to sustainability, with solar power and a water treatment plant.
What to do: Enjoy a rum tasting at the Cooper Island Beach Club’s rum bar, which boasts an extensive collection of rums from around the world. Snorkel or dive on the nearby reefs, including Cistern Point and Thumb Rock. Rent a stand-up paddleboard or kayak and explore the coastline. Stargaze at night – the clear skies and minimal light pollution make it an ideal spot for astronomy.
Cost: Mooring fees are approximately $40-$55. Rum tastings range from $20-$40 per person. Meals at the Cooper Island Beach Club are in the $30-$60 range. Water sports rentals are around $20-$30 per hour.
Directions: Approach Manchioneel Bay from the west or southwest, avoiding the reefs and shoals in the area. Follow the mooring ball assignment instructions. The GPS coordinates are roughly 18°22.3’N, 64°28.0’W.
Virgin Gorda: The Baths and Beyond
Virgin Gorda is famous for The Baths, a geological wonder of massive granite boulders scattered along the shoreline. Spanish Town (also known as Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour) is a convenient base for exploring The Baths and other attractions on the island. However, Spanish Town is a marina with docks and not really an anchorage. Instead, consider nearby Savannah Bay. While less sheltered than other anchorages, Savannah Bay offers a beautiful beach and easy access to Spanish Town by taxi.
What to do: Explore The Baths (be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season). Hike to Devil’s Bay, a beautiful secluded beach just south of The Baths. Visit Spanish Town and explore the local shops and restaurants. Rent a car or scooter and discover other parts of Virgin Gorda, such as Copper Mine National Park and North Sound.
Cost: Entrance fee to The Baths National Park is $8 per person. Taxi fare from Savannah Bay to Spanish Town is around $15-$20. Car rentals start at $60 per day. Mooring balls in the nearby (but exposed) areas are about $30-$40.
Directions: Approach Savannah Bay from the south, paying attention to the reefs along the coastline. Anchoring is generally good in sandy patches. Spanish Town can be reached easily by dinghy to the dinghy dock near the marina. The GPS coordinates for Savannah Bay are approximately 18°26.0’N, 64°26.0’W. Coordinates for Spanish Town are 18° 26.640′ N and 64° 26.120′ W.
Anegada: The Lobster Capital
Anegada, the only coral island in the BVI, is known for its pristine beaches, abundant lobster, and secluded anchorages. Setting Point is the main harbor and offers a sheltered anchorage. However, the entrance channel to Anegada is notoriously tricky, requiring careful navigation and adherence to the marked buoys.
What to do: Indulge in a famous Anegada lobster dinner at one of the beachside restaurants. Explore Loblolly Bay, a stunning beach on the north shore with excellent snorkeling. Visit the flamingo pond, a protected area where you can observe these graceful birds in their natural habitat. Relax on Cow Wreck Beach, named after a shipwreck carrying a cargo of cow bones.
Cost:Mooring fees are approximately $30 – $40. Anegada lobster dinners range from $50-$80 per person. Taxi fares are relatively expensive due to the island’s size and remoteness. Dinghy dockage is typically a small fee at the beach bars.
Directions: The entrance channel to Anegada must be navigated with extreme caution. Follow the marked buoys precisely, and consider hiring a local pilot if you are unfamiliar with the area. Most sailors approach from the north or west. The GPS coordinates for Setting Point are roughly 18°44.0’N, 64°23.0’W.
Jost Van Dyke: Foxy’s and White Bay
Jost Van Dyke is known for its lively beach bars and laid-back atmosphere. White Bay is a world-famous anchorage, home to the Soggy Dollar Bar, where the Painkiller cocktail was invented. It’s known as the “island that never sleeps” and one of the main places to celebrate New Years in the Caribbean with a full week of parties through New Year’s Day. This is a busy anchorage, so arrive early to secure a mooring ball.
Great Harbour is another anchorage on Jost Van Dyke, home to Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, another legendary BVI establishment. Great Harbour offers a more protected anchorage than White Bay, but it can still get crowded. Both anchorages get quite lively in the evenings.
What to do: Enjoy a Painkiller cocktail at the Soggy Dollar Bar in White Bay. Sample the rum punches and local cuisine at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar in Great Harbour. Relax on the beach and soak up the sun. Hike to the Bubbly Pool, a natural jacuzzi formed by ocean waves crashing over rocks. Explore the island’s trails and discover hidden beaches.
Cost: Mooring fees are about $40-$55. Painkillers at the Soggy Dollar Bar cost around $10-$15. Meals and drinks at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar are in the $20-$40 range.
Directions: Approach White Bay from the west or northwest, paying attention to the reefs along the shoreline. Great Harbour is approached from the south. Follow mooring ball assignment instructions. The GPS coordinates for White Bay are approximately 18°26.4’N, 64°45.0’W. The GPS Coordinates for Great Harbour are about 18° 26.726′ N and 64° 44.081′ W.
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola.
Cane Garden Bay on Tortola’s north shore offers a vibrant atmosphere surrounded by lush green hills. Often considered one of the top anchorages in the BVI, it provides a mix of relaxation and entertainment, with its long sandy beach lined with bars and restaurants.
What to do: Swimming and sunbathing on the beach, sampling local rums at Callwood Rum Distillery, enjoying live music at Myett’s or Quito’s Gazebo. Enjoy water sports activities like paddleboarding and kayaking.
Cost: Moorings typically cost around $30 – $50. Meals at beach restaurants range from $20 to $40. Rum tasting at the distillery is inexpensive, around $5 – $10.
Directions: Approach Cane Garden Bay from the northwest, taking care to avoid the reef extending outwards from the western end of the bay. Navigate towards the mooring field inside. The coordinates approximately 18°27’N, 64°38’W.
Tips for Secure and Responsible Anchoring
Securing your boat safely and responsibly is crucial in the BVI. Always check the weather forecast before anchoring, paying attention to potential changes in wind direction or strength. Ensure your anchor is properly set and that you have sufficient chain or rode deployed. If using a mooring ball, inspect it carefully before attaching your boat. Avoid anchoring in seagrass beds or coral reefs, as this can damage these fragile ecosystems. Dispose of your trash responsibly and avoid discharging waste in anchorages.
Provisioning and Supplies
Before setting sail in the BVI, it’s essential to stock up on provisions and supplies. Road Town on Tortola is the main hub for provisioning, with several supermarkets, chandleries, and hardware stores. Nanny Cay Marina also offers excellent provisioning options. Consider purchasing fresh produce from local markets for a taste of island flavor. It’s also wise to carry sufficient drinking water, as water can be expensive to purchase on some islands.
Staying Connected
Staying connected is important for communication, navigation, and entertainment. Most anchorages in the BVI offer cell phone coverage, but signal strength can vary. Purchasing a local SIM card can be a cost-effective way to access data and make calls. Many marinas and some restaurants offer Wi-Fi access, but it can be slow and unreliable. Consider investing in a satellite phone or a personal hotspot for more reliable connectivity, especially if you plan to spend extended periods offshore.
Understanding BVI Culture and Customs – Respect Is Key
The BVI has a rich cultural heritage, and respecting local customs is essential for a positive travel experience. Dress modestly when visiting towns and villages. Be mindful of noise levels, especially in residential areas. Support local businesses and artisans by purchasing souvenirs and crafts. Learn a few basic phrases in the local dialect, such as “good morning” and “thank you.” Be patient and understanding – island time is real! Engage with locals, learn about their traditions, and embrace the laid-back Caribbean lifestyle. The British Virigin Islands are also located within the hurricane belt, so hurricane season can be a factor.
BVI Navigation: Tips + Suggestions
Navigating in the BVI requires careful attention to charts, buoyage, and local knowledge. The waters are generally well-charted, but reefs and shoals can be hazardous. Pay close attention to depth soundings and use a GPS chartplotter for accurate navigation. Be aware of currents, especially in narrow channels. Monitor VHF radio for weather updates and navigational warnings. Consider hiring a local pilot if you are unfamiliar with the area or if you plan to navigate challenging passages, such as the entrance to Anegada. Remember, visibility can be reduced during rain showers, so exercise caution when navigating during inclement weather.
FAQ Section
What is the best time of year to sail in the BVI?
The best time to sail in the BVI is generally from November to July, when the weather is dry and the trade winds are consistent. Hurricane season runs from June to November, but the risk is highest in August and September.
Do I need a boating license to charter a sailboat in the BVI?
Requirements vary depending on the charter company. Usually, a valid sailing license or documented experience is required. Some companies may require you to hire a captain if you lack sufficient experience.
Are credit cards widely accepted in the BVI?
Credit cards are accepted at many establishments, including marinas, restaurants, and larger stores. However, smaller businesses and beach bars often prefer cash. It’s always a good idea to carry a mix of cash and credit cards.
What is the currency used in the BVI?
The official currency of the BVI is the US dollar (USD).
Are there any restrictions on anchoring in the BVI?
Yes, anchoring is prohibited in some areas, particularly within national parks and marine reserves. Pay attention to signage and consult your charts for designated anchoring zones. Mooring balls are often available for a fee, and using these is encouraged to protect the reefs.
Are there any specific health precautions I should take when sailing in the BVI?
Consult your doctor for recommended vaccinations and health advice before traveling to the BVI. Mosquitoes can be prevalent, so wear insect repellent and consider wearing long sleeves and pants in the evenings. Sunscreen is essential, as the tropical sun can be intense. Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
References
- British Virgin Islands National Parks Trust (official website)
- Cruising Guide to the Virgin Islands by Simon Scott
- The Moorings Cruising Guide
The British Virgin Islands are calling. With their breathtaking anchorages, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant island culture, the BVI offer an unforgettable sailing experience. Start planning your BVI adventure today, exploring the anchorages discussed in this guide, and creating memories that will last a lifetime. Book your charter, pack your bags, and prepare to discover the serenity of sailing in the British Virgin Islands. The ocean awaits!