Being aboard a yacht against a backdrop of blue skies and azure waters is a dream come true for those looking to escape the rat race of everyday life. From exploring quaint beaches to experiencing new cultures and trying local delicacies, there is something for everyone in the BVI.
If the Caribbean is somewhere you’ve always wanted to visit, chartering a yacht is a great way to see all this part of the world has to offer. Whether you’re looking for a vacation that promises to allow you to relax and unwind, or you’re an adrenaline junkie looking to try every watersport on offer, the BVI will undoubtedly delight you.
To help you explore the wonders of this stunning island, we’ve listed some top tips below.
What To Expect
When you charter a luxury yacht BVI, the island’s white sands, crystalline blue seas, lush green forests, and exotic marine life will become home for however long your stay may be.
Being aboard a yacht is the ideal way to explore all the idyllic Caribbean has to offer. When sailing, you can expect to stumble upon picturesque coves, gentle trade winds, and world-class marinas. These are just some of the elements that make the BVI perfect for sailing.
In addition, it’s one of the most developed of all the Caribbean Islands – when you’re not relaxing, the many fine dining and shopping opportunities are certain to keep you entertained.
The Temperature
Temperature-wise, this rarely drops below a comfortable 26°C. This makes these islands a perfect choice of destinations for those wishing to escape the winter blues, or any time of the year for that matter – the area’s rainfall and temperature are similar throughout the year, and the BVI isn’t affected by hurricanes. Just remember to pack accordingly!
Where to Visit
The BVI is home to a multitude of sailing options. There are more than 50 locations to choose from, many of which are brimming with reefs, coves, and an array of breathtaking beaches. Some of the top highlights comprise Salt Island, home to various wildlife. You can expect turtles and octopuses; all are happy to greet you at the famous wreck dive. Another must-visit spot? Cane Garden Bay is home to sugar cane plantations and a rum distillery.
For the Adrenaline Seekers
If searching for adventure, as opposed to relaxation, the BVI boasts an array of options. One of which is Tortola, the largest island. Here, you can snorkel, dive, hike Sage Mountain, and play tennis. This area is home to stunning views and exotic birdlife.
For the Foodies
When it comes to wine and dining, Jost van Dyke is a great spot to visit. What it lacks in size, it makes up for in personality. Home to just 25 permanent residents, this is still one of the most lively areas, brimming with bars and eateries. Hungry? Head to the Great Harbour. Here, you will discover five restaurants. They boast everything from grilled swordfish dinners to the infamous rum cocktails.
The Beaches
Home to 60 plus islands, all of which boast powder-white sand, when it comes to beaches in the BVI, you are spoilt for choice. One of the best things about exploring this area on a yacht? There are no crowds! The shallow reefs make the secluded area of Smuggler’s Cove difficult for bigger boats to navigate. If you’re a fan of snorkeling, this is an excellent spot to visit. From colorful coral to the backdrop of lush green hills, the beaches here are like no other.
Top Areas to Explore
Boasting a total coastline of just 80 km (49.7 mi), you can fit a lot into your charter. Some of the top areas to explore include:
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Virgin Gorda
A popular area to visit in BVI is Virgin Gorda. It’s here you’ll discover colossal granite boulders, which are known as The Baths. These dramatic structures sit close to the water’s edge, creating a unique series of caves and caverns, making the perfect backdrop for photo opportunities. This area is a popular spot for influencers. To put this into perspective, the number of social media users in the British Virgin Islands at the start of 2022 was equivalent to 85.2 percent of the total population.
If you’re activity-driven, you can hike the trail through the boulders, stopping at one of the local bars for a drink with a bird’s eye view. Follow this with a swim in the North Sound, where you’ll discover a multitude of secret sea caves. After all the walking and swimming, you can check into one of the area’s spas or choose to dine in style.
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Trellis Bay
Situated on Beef Island, Trellis Bay is home to another island called Bellamy Cay. Here, you’ll find a single restaurant with a picture-perfect backdrop, making it a great stop-off for lunch or dinner.
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Cooper Island
This picture-perfect island, situated at Manchineel Bay, boasts a protected anchorage. It’s here you’ll come face-to-face with some of the clearest water the British Virgin Islands has to offer. The Beach Club, a small resort with a rum bar, restaurant, boutique, coffee shop, and relaxing outdoor lounge area, is one of the key attractions here. It’s a prevalent stop for sailing yachts and more substantial vessels, as well as those who are keen divers. The island lies opposite ” Wreck Alley,” a popular diving site in the BVI.
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Anegada Island
It is the only coral island in BVI, home to a volcanic chain. Celebrated for miles of perfect beaches, including Horseshoe Reef, which spans 29 kilometers, this is one of the Caribbean’s most extensive barrier coral reefs. The area is renowned for large salt ponds, home to the famous Caribbean flamingos. This is a popular spot for those looking for the ultimate relaxation, as it’s virtually deserted.
The Bottom Line
Providing you with a plan, the British Virgin Islands are the perfect destination for a luxury yacht experience, especially for those looking for a relaxing escape. The easy distances between islands make access to excellent snorkeling and diving sites, picture-perfect beaches, local restaurants, and shops a breeze.
From experiencing authentic island life to embracing the true, secluded beauty of the British Virgin Islands, a sailing trip is a great way to see this part of the world.