Described as “Nature’s Little Secrets” in the official marketing materials of the British Virgin Islands, this is a destination of diverse character, where white sandy beaches are the stuff of postcard scenes. Contrasted against unspoilt idyllic backdrops are vibrant beach bars – for which the islands have become famed for.
Consisting of more than 50 islands, it is here where extravagant parties are held, where the world’s richest flock to the Virgin Gorda and where intrepid explorers and hikers take to the Sage Mountain National Park, climbing to 1716 feet.
The British Virgin Islands are British in name only (that and the handful of fish and chips that you may discover whilst exploring). Benefiting from stable trade winds, tranquil currents, sheltered bays and aptly themed pirate ship bars, it’s soon apparent why these islands are a revered sailing destination and why British Virgin Islands yacht charter should be detailed on every bucket list.
Yacht charters in the British Virgin Islands offers calm cruising – along the way experiencing stunning scenes, innumerable bays, coves and anchorages. The waters around the islands are protected from the strength of the trade winds, as well as the ocean swells – perfect for smooth, relaxed sailing.
With more than 50 islands, it’s a pressing task to whittle down the prime spots amongst so many jewels in the crown of charters; the islands have more than 200 mooring buoys for daylight use (put in place over two decades ago to look after the protected marine life).
Lee Bay and Salt Pond Bay provide daytime anchorage for exploring Salt Island – the home of the Wreck of the Rhone II.
Marina Cay is situated North of Trellis Bay, compared to the North Sounds, this is an intimate island that accounts for just eight anchors, this island is also home to the world-famous Pusser’s Restaurant.
North Sound, Virgin Gorda is located at the Eastern tip of the islands, encircled by numerous islands that offer a selection of overnight anchorages. You’ll also find restaurants, diving, windsurfing, hiking and ultra-light flying – a genuine hive of activity and a place with a rich sailing history.
Further anchorages to explore include: Trellis Bay, Beef Island; White Bay, Jost Van Dyke; The Dogs, Virgin Gorda; The Bight, Norman Island; The Baths, Virgin Gorda; Sandy Cay, Jost Van Dyke; Pelican Islands & The Indians and Deadman’s Bay, Peter Island.
Exploring the coastline
Exploring the expanse of the British Virgin Islands demands quite the timescale, as well as expert skippering in order to traverse diverse waters and ensure all sights are seen and activities are experienced. Despite how imposing yacht charters in the British Virgin Islands are when putting together an itinerary, these waters are largely ideal for cruising as they’re sheltered from steady winds and ocean swells.
The beauty of the British Islands is epitomised by the changing colours of the waters – on the surface, a vibrant blue-green can be seen, whilst underneath, marine life lives amongst purples, reds, and oranges.
The BVIs ashore
Take a shore excursion at St Thomas, for duty-free shopping and sightseeing – purchase your souvenirs for those at home from Charlotte Amalie and enjoy the views of Magens Bay whilst you’re there. Visit Road Town, where the Botanic Gardens await, as do restaurants, shops and a museum.
Take a short walk from the beach of Cane Garden Bay, Tortola up to the distillery and savour Caribbean samples of rum.
Yacht charters in the Britsh Virgin Islands, the experience is very, very, difficult to beat – take our word for it, the BVIs has to be experienced. British Virgin Island yacht charter is on every seafarers charter ‘bucket list’.