Last month Neptune's Daughter organized a flotilla for the Liberty Yacht Club in the British Virgin Islands. All the guests had a great time! This was my third time sailing in the BVI, and honestly - the most enjoyable of them all. The BVI, being one of the most popular sailing destinations for American sailors, could be overwhelming, overcrowded, and overrated to some. However, my previous experiences helped me better prepare for this trip, which made a huge difference. We were able to deliver a great experience to our flotilla crew by beating the crowds, and saving them time and money in this relatively expensive destination.
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is a sailor's paradise, offering crystal-clear waters, steady trade winds, and countless islands to explore. Whether you're looking for a bareboat charter, a skippered charter, or a fully crewed charter, a sailing vacation in the BVI is an unforgettable experience. This BVI Sailing Itinerary will guide you through the best sailing destinations, helping you make the most of your yacht cruising adventure.
Most of the BVI surroundings are a nature reserve, and in many spots, it is forbidden to anchor. Popular spots will have moorings available to tie up for a fee. You can either take a chance and get a mooring on a first-come-first-serve (FCFS) basis or reserve a mooring for the night through Boaty Ball. Reservations for moorings open at 7 am and moorings run out fast! Pro tip: if you weren't able to secure a mooring, head over to the destination a bit earlier and either grab a FCFS mooring (which is slightly cheaper than a Boaty Ball mooring), or set anchor (for free!) - following the nature reserve rules.
7-Day Sailing Itinerary for the British Virgin Islands
Day 1: Start Your Journey in Tortola - Sail to Peter Island - 5 NM
Your British Virgin Islands sailing itinerary begins in Road Town, Tortola, where most boat charter companies are based. After provisioning your yacht and completing check-in procedures, set sail towards your first night stop - Peter Island's Deadman's Bay.
Day 2: Peter Island - 2-3 NM
Spend the day at Deadman’s Bay, a spectacular white sand beach, or explore the colorful marine life at The Indians, a top snorkeling spot. If you're on a skippered charter or crewed charter, your captain may guide you to the best-hidden gems.
Day 3: Peter Island to Virgin Gorda - The Gorda Sound - 17 NM
In the morning set sail towards the Northeast - Virgin Gorda Bound. This upwind sail might be challenging for catamarans, so you might have to motor for a while. Make sure NOT to cut between Mosquito Island and Virgin Gorda on your way east. Enter the Gorda Sound from the NORTH and take a mooring in Saba Rock. Start your happy hour with frozen cocktails delivered to your boat by the Rum Runner - hail on channel 72. If you want a dinner in either Saba Rock or the Bitter End Yacht Club, make sure to make your reservations in advance.
Day 4: Morning - Virgin Gorda, afternoon - sail to Anegada - 15 NM
One of Virgin Gorda's famous attractions is the Baths, a breathtaking natural wonder featuring giant granite boulders and hidden pools. It is highly recommended to visit the Baths early in the morning, right when it opens at 9 am. Later on, you are risking big crowds of cruise ship passengers - usually arriving there around 10-10:30 am. If you moored at the Saba Rock mooring field, you can take the complimentary water taxi from there, embarking at 7:30 am, to Lavrion. In Lavrion meet up with a tour bus - which will drive you through the island to the Baths. After touring the Baths, take the ride back to the boat and depart towards Anegada. Leave no later than 2 pm so you can make it to Anegada by 5 pm at the latest. Dinner - at the excellent Lobster Trap or the fun and party Wonky Dog.
Day 5: Anegada to Jost Van Dyke - 26 NM
Anegada is the only coral atoll in the BVI. Unlike the other mountainous islands, Anegada is flat with stunning white-sand beaches. Early morning you can either rent a scooter or hire a ride to explore the island, perhaps get a glimpse of the flamingoes in the Flamingo Pond and enjoy snorkeling at the Horseshoe Reef, one of the Caribbean’s largest barrier reefs.
By 1 pm set sail west. towards Little Jost Van Dyke. Sail on a broad reach and set anchor to the southeast of Little Jost Van Dyke, right by Green Cay and Sandy Spit. Swim or dinghy to the breathtaking Sandy Spit to enjoy the sunset.
Day 6: Little Jost Van Dyke to Jost Van Dyke - 5 NM
Start the morning by dinghying over to Little Jost Van Dyke for a short hike to the Bubbly Pool - a small geological cove protected by cliffs. Breaking waves of water enter the pool through a small gap in the cliffs and create a natural fizzy bubble bath - some call it Nature's Jacuzzi!
After returning to the boat, head over west ti Jost Van Dyke, known for its beach bars and friendly atmosphere. First stop at White Bay, home to the world-famous Soggy Dollar Bar, where you can sip a Painkiller cocktail and relax on the powdery sands. Then get to your night mooring at Great Harbour, and visit Foxy’s for live music and a true Caribbean party vibe.
Day 7: Jost Van Dyke to Norman Island and back to Tortola - 16 NM
Start your day by sailing south of Jost Van Dyke towards Norman Island. Make a snorkeling stop at The Caves - renowned for its beautiful reef. After this morning's snorkeling and swimming, head over to The Bight, Norman Island. This legendary pirate hideaway is perfect for snorkeling and enjoying a sundowner at the famous Willy T’s floating bar. Either sail back to your charter base or stay this last night on a mooring in The Bight, and sail back to Tortola early in the next morning.
Conclusion
This British Virgin Islands itinerary is the perfect balance of adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you opt for a bareboat charter for total freedom, a skippered charter for expert guidance, or a crewed charter for ultimate luxury, a sailing vacation in the BVI is a dream come true.
FAQs about BVI Itinerary
How long does it take to sail around BVI? A complete circuit of the BVI can take about a week, making this BVI Sailing Itinerary perfect for a 7-day trip.
Are there any hidden beaches in BVI? Yes! Sandy Spit, Loblolly Bay on Anegada, and Smuggler’s Cove on Tortola are a few secluded spots worth visiting.
Can I enjoy water sports like snorkeling and diving in BVI? Absolutely! The Indians, The Caves, Horseshoe Reef, and the Wreck of the Rhone are among the best dive and snorkel sites.
What are the must-see attractions on BVI? The Baths at Virgin Gorda, Anegada’s beaches, White Bay on Jost Van Dyke, and Norman Island’s Caves are must-visit spots.
What is the best time to sail in BVI? The best time to sail in the BVI is between November and May, with December to April being the peak season due to ideal weather conditions. You can still enjoy sailing in the off-season - April through October, however, there's a higher chance for rain, and sometimes even hurricanes. Make sure to insure your trip with travel insurance.
Are there any fees and taxes required to sail in the BVI? Yes, sailors should be aware of cruising permits, national park fees, and mooring fees, which vary depending on the season and type of charter. Most charter companies will charge the national park fees and cruising taxes in advance upon booking and will provide the charterer with the necessary permits.
Set sail on your dream BVI Sailing Itinerary and experience the best of yacht cruising in the Caribbean! Contact Neptune's Daughter today: sales@neptunes-daughter.com
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