British Virgin Islands
The Caribbean’s sailing capital offering protected, turquoise waters.
The British Virgin Islands have long dazzled the global jet set, yet remains delightfully unpretentious. This is an archipelago where simplicity is the ultimate sophistication, a seamless blend of barefoot beach culture and superyacht luxury. The region offers unique “line-of-sight” sailing, allowing for effortless short hops between the granite cathedrals of Virgin Gorda and the powder-soft sands of Jost Van Dyke. From lush rainforest hikes to kaleidoscopic coral reefs, the BVI sets the gold standard for a luxury charter experience.
The Best of the British Virgin Islands
The Baths National Park
Virgin Gorda (Southern Tip)
Sculpted by nature over 70 million years, these house-sized granite boulders rest on a crushed-pearl beach like an ancient art installation. The volcanic megaliths form illuminated grottoes and sea pools that shimmer with turquoise clarity. Your crew will have you arrive early in the morning or late afternoon to explore the trail leading to Devil’s Bay while avoiding the cruise ship crowds.
Soggy Dollar Bar
White Bay, Jost Van Dyke
A Caribbean institution named for sailors swimming ashore with money in their pockets. As the birthplace of the legendary Painkiller cocktail, it offers a quintessential atmosphere on cowlicks of ivory-colored sand. It is the perfect spot to while away an afternoon in the shade of a coconut palm.
CocoMaya
Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda
An elevated culinary experience blending Latin American and Asian flavors. Set directly on the beach with fire pits and plush lounge seating, CocoMaya offers a sophisticated, atmospheric setting. It is the ideal destination for a dressier evening ashore, steps away from the water’s edge.
The Willy T
The Bight, Norman Island
A legendary floating bar anchored in the harbor, known for its spirited energy and maritime folklore. A rite of passage for many charter guests, it offers a casual lunch scene that transforms into a lively, adult-oriented gathering spot as the sun dips below the horizon.
The Lobster Trap
Setting Point, Anegada
A celebrated pier-side venue where the “table-to-ocean” distance is measured in inches. Guests watch as staff pull massive spiny lobsters from underwater holding crates to be grilled over open flames. It is a rustic, authentic dining experience that captures the essence of Anegada.
The Indians
Near Norman Island (The Southern Islands)
Four dramatic rocky pinnacles rising from the water, offering some of the territory’s finest snorkeling. The shallow, protected waters and abundance of tropical fish make this an accessible and high-reward underwater experience for families and seasoned divers alike.
Destination Brief
Best Time to Charter
December through May (Peak); June and November (Shoulder).
Languages spoken
English
Cruising Style
Protected waters, short island hops, easy line-of-sight navigation.
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Getting There
Fly into Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, or fly into St. Thomas (STT) and take a private water taxi or public ferry to Tortola.
Amazing Itineraries
Discover each itinerary by clicking on the maps above.
Day 1: The Adventure Begins
Set sail from the base on Tortola to the fabled shores of Norman Island.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Snorkel The Caves
Explore the famous Pirate Caves, a calm and sheltered site perfect for morning snorkeling. Brilliant marine life, hidden passages, and crystal-clear waters.
KEY FEATURES
Real-Life "Treasure Island"
Norman Island is the reputed inspiration for Treasure Island, steeped in pirate lore, hidden coves, and tales of buried Spanish gold.
Day 2: Private Island Paradise
A gentle sail from Norman Island brings you to the exclusive Peter Island.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Relax at Deadman's Bay
Unwind at one of the BVI’s most beautiful beaches, known for its powder-soft sand, calm turquoise waters, and a truly secluded, luxury atmosphere.
KEY FEATURES
The BVI's Largest Private Island
Peter Island spans over 1,800 acres of pristine landscape, featuring white-sand beaches, scenic hiking trails, and world-class resort amenities in a completely private setting.
Day 3: Geological Wonders
Journey to the picturesque island of Virgin Gorda, renowned for its unique natural beauty.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Explore The Baths
Navigate a natural maze of massive granite boulders that form winding corridors, hidden grottos, and crystal-clear tidal pools perfect for swimming and exploration.
KEY FEATURES
Anchor at the North Sound
Cap the day at the North Sound, a protected marina paradise known for luxury resorts, calm anchorages, and unforgettable sunset views.
Day 4: A Unique Coral Island
Embark on a 5–6 hour sail north to Anegada, the only coral island in the BVI's volcanic chain.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Discover Horseshoe Reef
Spend the day snorkeling or diving along one of the largest barrier reefs in the Caribbean. Experience vibrant coral gardens, tropical fish, and crystal-clear waters.
KEY FEATURES
Lobsters & Flamingos
Anegada is famous for its fresh lobster lunches and wild flamingos. Enjoy beachfront dining and explore the island’s unique wildlife and relaxed atmosphere.
Day 5: Legendary Leisure
Sail to the lively island of Jost Van Dyke, named after a 17th-century Dutch pirate.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Hike to the Bubbly Pool
Take a short, scenic hike to this natural rock pool where ocean waves crash through volcanic stone, creating a refreshing and unique “jacuzzi” effect.
KEY FEATURES
A Bit of History
The island is named after Joost van Dyk, a Dutch pirate and early settler who used the area as a base in the early 1600s.
Day 6: Beach Bars & Boutiques
Spend the day enjoying Jost Van Dyke before a short sail to the western end of Tortola.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Experience White Bay
Visit one of the BVI’s most iconic beach bars, the Soggy Dollar Bar, famous for its laid-back atmosphere, Painkiller cocktails, and barefoot charm with your toes in the sand.
KEY FEATURES
Evening at Soper's Hole
Enjoy the colorful marina lifestyle, lively dining and shopping, and explore waterfront restaurants, boutiques, and cafés as the sun sets.
Day 7: One Last Sail
Enjoy a final, short sail from Soper's Hole back to the charter base on Tortola.
FINAL SAIL TO ROAD TOWN
A Journey's End
Take in the last views of the British Virgin Islands as you cruise calm waters, soaking up the sunshine and reflecting on an unforgettable week at sea.
A JOURNEY'S END
A JOURNEY'S END
A fitting conclusion to your BVI adventure as you return to Road Town, closing a week filled with exploration, relaxation, and extraordinary moments.
Day 1: Tranquil Beginnings
A short, scenic sail across the Sir Francis Drake Channel to the protected Manchioneel Bay.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Sea Turtle Spotting
Snorkel the seagrass beds at Cistern Point, where majestic sea turtles and graceful spotted eagle rays are frequently seen gliding through the crystal-clear, shallow water.
KEY FEATURES
Cooper Island Beach Club
This eco-resort features an artisanal microbrewery, a boutique, and a rum bar with a selection of over 400 rums.
Day 2: Coastal Wonders
Head north to explore the dramatic granite formations of "The Baths" before mooring at Leverick Bay.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
The Baths National Park
Navigate the massive boulders and iconic pools that form a maze leading to the pristine sands of Devil’s Bay.
KEY FEATURES
Leverick Bay Resort
A lively nautical hub in the North Sound featuring beach BBQ, a swimming pool, and nightly entertainment often including the famous “Mocko Jumbie” dancers.
Day 3: The Sound of Serenity
Spend the day in the "constant luxury" of the North Sound, one of the world's most protected natural harbors.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
North Sound Watersports
The flat, protected waters here are perfect for family paddleboarding, kayaking, and wing foiling.
KEY FEATURES
Saba Rock & Bitter End
Visit these iconic nautical outposts for superb dining, lounging in overwater hammocks, and stunning views of the yachts at anchor.
Day 4: Resort Sophistication
Sail toward the east end of Tortola to enjoy the upscale facilities of these neighboring island retreats.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Resort Amenities
Relax in the multi-tiered infinity pools of Scrub Island or enjoy the world-famous spa and swim-up bars.
KEY FEATURES
Diamond Reef
Located just off Great Camanoe, this is one of the territory’s most celebrated reefs, teeming with vibrant coral heads and schools of tropical fish.
Day 5: Rhythms of the Reef
Follow the northern coast of Tortola to Cane Garden Bay, a palm-fringed curve of gold sand known for its lively culture.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Live Music & Local Flavors
Dance in the sand to live reggae music and enjoy authentic Caribbean cuisine at the beachfront restaurants.
KEY FEATURES
Callwood Rum Distillery
Visit the historic 400-year-old stone distillery, one of the oldest in the Caribbean, to see the traditional copper pot stills in action.
Day 6: Island Hospitality - The Soul of Jost Van Dyke
A short hop west leads to the relaxed, laid-back charm of the BVI's "Barefoot" island, Jost Van Dyke.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Casual Beachfront Dining
Walk the sandy street of Great Harbour to find legendary beach bars and enjoy a lobster feast by the water.
KEY FEATURES
White Bay
Just around the corner, drop anchor at White Bay to visit the Soggy Dollar Bar, home of the original “Painkiller” cocktail.
Day 7: The Final Horizon
Cross back through the Sir Francis Drake Channel toward Road Town for the final leg of the journey.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
The Indians
Make a final stop at “The Indians,” a unique rock formation offering some of the best deep-water snorkeling in the archipelago.
KEY FEATURES
Road Town Hub
Return to the marina base in Road Town to conclude the charter, with easy access to shops and ferries at the Tortola Pier Park.
Day 1: Tortola to Salt Island
Embark from the BVI's main hub toward the historic salt ponds and legendary deep-water sites.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Dive the RMS Rhone Wreck
Explore the 310-foot Royal Mail Steamer that sank in 1867. Highlights include the massive propeller and the “dance floor” section on the seabed.
KEY FEATURES
The First Marine National Park
Salt Island is home to an 800-acre protected area featuring fringing reef habitats, sea grave beds, and the Caribbean’s most celebrated wreck.
Day 2: Salt Island to Gorda Sound
Sail north along the majestic coastline of Virgin Gorda toward one of the world's finest protected harbors.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Hike The Baths National Park
Navigate a labyrinth of massive granite boulders, secret tidal pools, and sun-dappled grottos on the trail to Devil’s Bay.
KEY FEATURES
Gorda Peak Panoramic Views
Ascend the 1,370-foot peak within a protected dry forest sanctuary for 360-degree views of the entire BVI archipelago.
Day 3: Anegada Exploration
Experience a blue-water sail to the BVI's only coral atoll, a flat landscape that feels worlds away from the mountainous inner islands.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
North Shore Scooter Tour
Rent a scooter to explore 11 miles of untouched coastline, visiting the brilliant purple sea fans and reefs of Lobiolly Bay.
KEY FEATURES
Rare Island Fauna
Discover a unique ecosystem home to Roseate Flamingos in the salt ponds and the rare Anegada Rock Iguana.
Day 4: Anegada to Guana Island
Sail southwest toward the private sanctuary of Guana Island, known for its absolute privacy and untouched beauty.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Snorkel at Monkey Point
Dive into a sheltered reef described as “swimming in an aquarium,” teeming with turtles, rays, and massive schools of tarpon.
KEY FEATURES
Private Nature Reserve
Guana Island is one of the most biodiverse islands in the Caribbean, featuring lush rainforests and seven secluded white sand beaches.
Day 5: Sandy Spit and Green Cay - The Ultimate Desert Island Experience
Anchor near tiny, uninhabited islets that offer the quintessential "Desert Island" experience.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Remote Reef Snorkeling
Explore the shallow, crystal-clear waters surrounding Sandy Spit, a four-acre nature preserve of pure white sand and turquoise surf.
KEY FEATURES
Uninhabited Serenity
These cays offer total isolation from crowded activity, making them the perfect locations for beach picnics and underwater photography.
Day 6: Little Harbour, Jost Van Dyke
Go for the quiet side of Jost Van Dyke, anchoring in a peaceful sleeve away from the famous party beaches.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Hike to the Bubbly Pool
Take a short trek to a natural rock pool where Atlantic waves crash through volcanic stone to create a refreshing “Jacuzzi” effect.
KEY FEATURES
Rural Island Character
Named after a 17th-century Dutch pirate, this area feels like a rural, unpretentious charm with small-scale local establishments like Foxy’s Taboo.
Day 7: Return to Tortola
Close the loop by navigating "The Narrows" toward the western end of Tortola.
ACTIVITY HIGHLIGHT
Visit Soper's Hole Marina
Explore the brightly painted West Indian architecture of this historic deep-water harbor, once used as a base for Blackbeard’s fleet.
KEY FEATURES
Smuggler's Cove
Before returning to base, enjoy one last swim at this undeveloped, crescent-shaped beach known for its calm waters and peaceful vibe.
FAQs
Q: Do I need a visa to visit the British Virgin Islands?
A: U.S. and Canadian citizens need a valid passport but generally do not require a visa for tourism. Citizens of other countries should check with the BVI government’s current entry requirements.
Q: Is there cell service and WiFi on the yachts?
A: Connectivity in the BVI is surprisingly robust. Most luxury yachts are equipped with Starlink or high-speed cellular routers, ensuring you can stream a movie or take a conference call from the aft deck. However, signal can be intermittent in remote bays like Anegada’s north shore—consider it a gentle invitation to disconnect.
Q: Is the water rough? Will I get seasick?
A: The BVI is unique because the islands surround the Sir Francis Drake Channel, creating a large, protected “inland sea.” The water is generally much calmer than the open ocean, making it the most suitable destination for guests prone to seasickness or those chartering for the first time.
Q: What should I pack for a BVI charter?
A: The BVI is the definition of “barefoot elegance.” Leave the rigid suitcases and high heels at home; soft-sided duffel bags are essential for easy yacht storage. You will live in swimwear, kaftans, and linen shirts. A light windbreaker is wise for breezy evenings on the water, but otherwise, simplicity is key.
