Forget the crowded harbors and over-hyped hotspots. The British Virgin Islands (BVIs) are brimming with secluded anchorages, pockets of paradise that offer tranquility, stunning scenery, and a genuine escape from the tourist throngs. This isn’t your typical BVI guide; we’re diving deep into the most underrated bays, revealing their secrets and providing you with the intel you need to create an unforgettable sailing or boating adventure. Get ready to discover the hidden gems of the BVIs.
Little Harbour, Jost Van Dyke: A Fisherman’s Paradise
While Great Harbour on Jost Van Dyke is famous for its parties (hello, Foxy’s!), Little Harbour offers a completely different vibe. Tucked away just a short distance west, it’s a narrow, almost lagoon-like inlet teeming with marine life. This is where you come to unwind, escape the crowds, and enjoy the authentic BVI experience.
What to Expect: Expect calm, clear waters perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The shallow depths make it a safe anchorage, ideal for families. However, be mindful of the limited swinging room, especially during peak season. The holding is generally good in sand and mud.
Things to Do: Snorkeling is a must! The coral reefs along the edges of the harbor are home to colorful fish and other marine creatures. Several small restaurants line the shore, offering fresh seafood and local specialties. Do a little fishing from your boat or dinghy; you might even spot some local fishermen bringing in their daily catch—a great opportunity to buy freshly caught fish right off the boat. Check out Abe’s By The Sea for a super casual beachside bbq, or Harris’ Place for family style dining and great conversations.
Getting There: Little Harbour is easily accessible by boat. From Great Harbour, it’s a short sail or dinghy ride around the corner. By land, you can take a taxi from Great Harbour, but the boat is definitely the more scenic route.
Pro Tip: Arrive early, especially during the high season (November to April). The limited anchorage space fills up quickly. Consider calling ahead to the restaurants to make a reservation or inquire about mooring availability.
Savannah Bay, Virgin Gorda: Untouched Beauty
Virgin Gorda boasts some of the BVI’s most iconic locations, like The Baths. But venture a little further, and you’ll discover Savannah Bay, a long, crescent-shaped beach that feels a world away from the crowds. This bay epitomizes tranquility and natural beauty. The white sand beach is consistently rated as one of the best beaches in the world based on water conditions, sand quality, and lack of crowds.
What to Expect: Picture-perfect white sand, crystal-clear turquoise water, and relatively few people. The waters are generally calm and ideal for swimming and snorkeling, although the waves can pick up on occasion, especially during the winter months. The anchorage is well-protected from the prevailing easterly winds.
Things to Do: Relax on the beach, swim in the crystal-clear water, or explore the coastline. The snorkeling along the rocky edges of the bay is rewarding, with plenty of colorful fish to observe. Pack a picnic lunch and enjoy a secluded beach day. There are often wild goats grazing, so keep an eye out. Rent a car for short time to find grocery stores and to make a quick trip to The Baths!
Getting There: Savannah Bay is accessible by both boat and land. By boat, it’s a straightforward sail from North Sound or Spanish Town. There is a well-marked entrance through the reef. By land, take the main road north from Spanish Town (the island’s main hub) and follow the signs to Savannah Bay. There is ample parking available near the beach.
Pro Tip: Bring your own supplies, including food, drinks, and beach chairs. There are no facilities directly on the beach. Be sure to check the weather forecast before you go, as the bay can become exposed to swells during certain conditions.
The Bight, Norman Island: Beyond Willy T’s
Norman Island is synonymous with the floating bar, the Willy T. While the Willy T is certainly an experience, don’t let it overshadow the beauty of The Bight. Beyond the party atmosphere, this bay offers serene anchorages, great snorkeling, and a glimpse into the island’s pirate lore.
What to Expect: Three possible anchorages: The Bight (off the beach), Benures Bay to the south, and Money Bay on the west side of the island. The Bight is well-protected, with calm waters and good holding in sand. Benures Bay is smaller and more secluded, while Money Bay is known for its excellent snorkeling.
Things to Do: Snorkel The Caves at the west end of the Bight, a series of underwater grottos teeming with marine life. Dive or snorkel the Indians, a group of rock formations just offshore, known for their vibrant coral and abundant fish. For a more secluded experience, hike the trails on Norman Island and enjoy the panoramic views. Obviously, you can visit the Willy T for a drink and a jump, but don’t let that be the only thing you do! If you prefer something less rowdy, Pirates Bight Beach Bar is also a good option.
Getting There: Norman Island is easily accessible by boat. The Bight is a well-marked anchorage, and the Willy T serves as a prominent landmark. Dinghy docks are available near the beach bars.
Pro Tip: If you’re looking for a quieter experience, anchor away from the Willy T, especially during peak hours. Consider visiting during the day before the party crowd arrives. The snorkeling in the various locations around the island is highly recommended – don’t miss it! Reservations for dinner at Pirates Bight Restaurant are highly recommended.
Cane Garden Bay, Tortola: A Taste of Local Culture
While Cane Garden Bay is quite popular, it still retains a unique charm and laid-back atmosphere that sets it apart from the more developed areas of Tortola. The long stretch of white sand beach, the swaying palms, and the vibrant local music create an irresistible Caribbean vibe. You might even find some sea turtles swimming around!
What to Expect: A lively but relaxed scene. The beach is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. The water is generally calm and shallow, making it suitable for swimming and water sports. The anchorage is well-protected, but it can get crowded, especially during the day.
Things to Do: Relax on the beach, soak up the sun, and enjoy the views. Indulge in some water sports, such as paddle boarding, kayaking, or windsurfing. Sample the local cuisine at one of the many beachfront restaurants. Enjoy live music at night – Myett’s and Quito’s Gazebo are popular choices. Take a tour of the Callwood Rum Distillery, one of the oldest distilleries in the Caribbean. There are also opportunities for hiking and exploring the surrounding hills. The bay is well lit and great for night swimming.
Getting There: Cane Garden Bay is easily accessible by both boat and land. By boat, it’s a straightforward sail from Road Town or West End. By land, take the main road north from Road Town and follow the signs to Cane Garden Bay. Taxi services are also readily available throughout Tortola.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good anchorage spot, especially if you’re visiting during peak season. Be prepared for some noise from the bars and restaurants, especially on weekends. Consider taking a taxi to explore other parts of Tortola, such as Sage Mountain National Park or Smuggler’s Cove.
Sandy Spit: Picture-Perfect Paradise
Ok, it’s hardly a secret spot, but it is wildly underrated! Is there anything more quintessential BVI than a deserted island with just sand and a few palm trees? Sandy Spit is it. One of the smallest of the BVI’s islands, Sandy Spit is truly a tiny island and is nothing more than a sandbar with some mature coconut trees. Rent a boat, get a ride, do whatever you need to do to get yourself here and enjoy this tiny deserted island.
What to Expect: Perfect Instagram photos! Seriously, it’s an iconic location. The water the surrounds the spit is generally calm, but use caution as it can get wavy and there is no wind coverage. There is no facilities on the island—AT ALL.
Things to Do: Swim! Snorkel! Explore the perimeter of the island! Take photos! Have a picnic lunch, and try not to litter. It’s all about relaxing and feeling like you have your own private island for the moment.
Getting There: Most likely by boat. Head north of Jost Van Dyke or East of Tortola and you cannot miss it.
Pro Tip: Bring sunscreen, snacks, water and anything else you might need for a few hours of fun. Please, pleeeeeease, do not leave any trash there as there is virtually no ecosystem and no easy way to clean up the spit.
Guana Island: Exclusive Seclusion
Okay, getting to Guana Island is much less accessible, but it is possible and the natural beauty is unrivaled. Guana Island is a privately owned island. Access to the island’s beaches is typically restricted to the resort’s guests, but in the low season and off-peak times, there can be opportunities to visit.
What to Expect: A secluded and pristine environment with some of the finest beaches in the BVI. Because access is limited, the beaches are incredibly quiet and offer a sense of unparalleled privacy.
Things to Do: Visit one of Guana’s beaches (Musketeer Bay, for example) and enjoy the unique wildlife and the pristine coral reefs. Due to the island’s conservation efforts, snorkelers and divers can observe a vibrant marine ecosystem.
Getting There: Arrangements need to be made in advance with the island’s administration and are available sometimes on an extremely limited basis. Boats may be anchored offshore, permitting guests to travel to the shore via dinghy.
Pro Tip: Contact the island administration well in advance of your intended visit to inquire about day passes. Do check access policies (which can vary) prior to planning any trip!
Anegada: A World of Its Own
Okay, so Anegada is not a “secret” but the island is often skipped by boat tours and travelers who stick to the “main” islands. Anegada is unlike any other island in the BVI. It’s flat, coral and limestone, and ringed by stunning beaches and extensive coral reefs. It’s a true paradise for those seeking secluded anchorages and unparalleled snorkeling and diving opportunities. The island is a bit farther from the rest of the BVIs, so you should plan for it, but you won’t be sorry! Be extra careful when planning to travel to Anegada: Charts should be carefully followed, using a spotter or two at the bow in bright daylight to spot the coral heads that are always in the vicinity.
What to Expect: Pristine beaches, crystal-clear water, and a laid-back atmosphere. You’ll find fewer crowds here than on the other islands. The snorkeling and diving are world-class, thanks to the extensive coral reefs and abundant marine life. Try to find a local to take you out on a lobster fishing trip!
Things to Do: Explore the beaches: Loblolly Bay, Cow Wreck Beach, and Flash of Beauty are just a few of the highlights. Snorkel or dive the Horseshoe Reef, one of the largest barrier reefs in the Caribbean. Rent a scooter or jeep and explore the island at your own pace. Visit the Anegada Iguana Headstart Facility, which is working to protect the endangered Anegada Rock Iguana. Observe flamingos in the salt ponds. Enjoy a fresh lobster dinner on the beach. This island is one of the best places on earth to stargaze because of the absence of light pollution.
Getting There: Anegada is accessible by ferry from Tortola and Virgin Gorda, as well as by plane to the Auguste George Airport (NGD). By boat, it’s a longer sail from the other BVI islands, so plan accordingly. There are several well-marked anchorages around the island, including Setting Point, the main harbor.
Pro Tip: Be sure to stock up on supplies before heading to Anegada, as options are limited on the island. Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season. Pack plenty of sunscreen and insect repellent. Respect the environment and avoid touching the coral reefs. If possible, hire a local guide to show you around the island and share their knowledge of the area.
Practical Considerations for Underrated Anchorages in the BVIs
Venturing beyond the well-trodden path in the BVIs requires a bit more planning and preparation. The infrastructure in these quieter anchorages may be less developed, so it’s essential to be self-sufficient and prepared for any eventuality.
Navigation: Pay close attention to your charts, particularly in areas with coral reefs or shallow waters. Consider using a chart plotter and depth sounder to aid in navigation. Be aware of the tides and currents, which can be strong in some areas.
Provisioning: Stock up on adequate food and water before heading to the more remote anchorages. You may not find well-stocked stores or restaurants in these areas. Consider bringing a portable water maker or purifier if you plan to spend an extended amount of time away from civilization.
Communication: Ensure you have a reliable means of communication, such as a VHF radio or satellite phone. Cell phone coverage may be limited or non-existent in some areas. Let someone know your itinerary and check in regularly.
Safety: Carry a well-stocked first-aid kit and know how to use it. Be aware of the potential hazards in the area, such as strong currents, sharp coral, and marine life. Swim in designated areas and avoid swimming alone. Keep an eye on the weather and be prepared to move to a more sheltered anchorage if necessary.
Respect for the Environment: Practice Leave No Trace principles. Pack out all your trash and avoid polluting the water. Use reef-safe sunscreen to protect the coral reefs. Be mindful of your impact on the local ecosystem and avoid disturbing wildlife.
Cost Considerations
Budgeting for a BVI trip that includes visits to secluded anchorages is essential. While the freedom and tranquility of these spots are priceless, factor in costs for:
- Boat Charter/Rental Fees: These can vary widely depending on the size and type of the boat, the season, and the charter company. Expect to pay anywhere from $3,000 to $20,000+ per week.
- Mooring Fees: If you choose to use mooring balls in certain bays, there will be a fee. The fees vary from $30-$65 per night.
- National Parks Fees: Most areas in the BVIs require a marine parks permit. As of September 1, 2024, the cost for cruising permits has increased significantly. National Park fees are $8/person/day, and must be paid in cash only.
- Food and Drinks: Groceries can be expensive in the BVI, especially on the outer islands. Eating out at restaurants can also add up quickly. Consider provisioning some of your food and drinks before you arrive to save money.
- Fuel and Water: Fuel and water costs can vary depending on your consumption. Keep track of your usage and top up as needed.
- Activities: Costs for activities such as snorkeling gear rental, diving, fishing excursions, and land tours should be factored into the budget.
- Miscellaneous Expenses: Account for unexpected expenses such as customs fees, docking fees, laundry, and souvenirs.
Sample Itinerary: 7 Days of Underrated BVI Anchorages
This itinerary is just a suggestion, of course, but it will give you a taste of the variety and beauty these spots offer:
Day 1: Arrive in Tortola, provision your boat, and set sail for Norman Island. Anchor in The Bight and enjoy snorkeling The Caves.
Day 2: Sail to Peter Island. Spend the day soaking in the sun.
Day 3: Head to Cooper Island. Check out the Cooper Island Beach Club.
Day 4: Aboard a charter boat, navigate to Anegada. Explore the beaches, snorkel the Horseshoe Reef, and enjoy a lobster dinner on the beach.
Day 5: Sail to North Sound, Virgin Gorda. Dinghy to Bitter End Yacht Club (if it’s reopened), or go check out Saba Rock.
Day 6: Head to Savannah Bay in Virgin Gorda. Relax on the beach and snorkel in the crystal-clear water.
Day 7: Return to Tortola, stopping at Sandy Spit for a final swim and photo opportunity.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit the BVI for calmer anchorages?
The shoulder seasons, April-May and September-October, generally offer the best combination of pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The winter months (November-March) are the most popular, but also the busiest and most expensive. The summer months (June-August) can be hot and humid, and there is a higher risk of hurricanes, but you can find great deals on accommodations and boat charters.
Do I need a special license to charter a boat in the BVI?
The requirements vary depending on the size and type of boat you wish to charter. Generally, a recognized sailing certification (such as ASA or RYA) or a valid boating license is required. Even if you have experience, a charter company may require you to hire a captain for at least a portion of your trip, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area. You may want to check out Boat International’s article about appropriate boat license requirements. Find more information here.
Are there any restrictions on anchoring in certain areas of the BVI?
Yes, there are designated no-anchoring zones, particularly in areas with sensitive coral reefs or underwater cables. Be sure to consult your charts and local guides for the latest information. It’s also important to be mindful of other boats and avoid anchoring too close to them.
What should I do in case of a medical emergency while in a remote anchorage?
Call for help using VHF radio channel 16 or your satellite phone. The BVI has a well-established emergency response system. Provide your exact location and the nature of the emergency. Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical evacuation. There is a hospital in Road Town on Tortola, but medevac is a possibility depending on the circumstances.
How can I minimize my environmental impact while exploring the BVI?
Use reef-safe sunscreen, avoid touching or disturbing coral reefs, and dispose of your trash properly. Support local businesses that are committed to sustainable tourism practices. Conserve water and energy whenever possible. Participate in beach cleanups or other environmental initiatives.
References
- British Virgin Islands Tourist Board.
- BVI National Parks Trust.
- Boat International.
Ready to ditch the crowds and discover the true magic of the British Virgin Islands? Start planning your off-the-beaten-path adventure today! Research charter companies, book flights, and gather your courage for the trip of your lifetime. Those hidden anchorages are calling – and they’re waiting to be explored. Remember to respect the environment, support local businesses, and most importantly, enjoy the freedom and tranquility that these special places have to offer. What are you waiting for?