The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a sailor’s paradise, offering turquoise waters, secluded beaches, and a touch of Caribbean luxury. Perfect for active luxury travelers seeking a unique sailing experience, this destination combines pristine natural beauty with adventure and indulgence.
With over 50 breathtaking islands to explore, this guide maps out a weeklong sailing itinerary starting and ending in Tortola. Along the way, discover iconic attractions and landmarks like The Baths, indulgent dining experiences, and thrilling water sports. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or this is your first time aboard a luxury yacht, this guide will help you craft the ultimate sailing vacation in the British Virgin Islands.
We were lucky enough to spend a week sailing around the BVIs on Sun Daze, a 55-foot 2023 spacious Bali catamaran. Sun Daze is one of many luxury yachts in the Myst Yacht Charters fleet stationed around the world.
Opting for a luxury yacht charter gave us the ability to sit back and relax. Captain Tiago and Chef Kiki created the trip of a lifetime for us. They planned an amazing sailing itinerary that avoided overcrowded tourist spots. From relaxing on the gorgeous yacht to exploring local islands, swimming in the crystal-clear blue water, or wakeboarding and tubing, every day was a fun-filled adventure.
Sun Daze – Luxury Bali Catamaran
Sun Daze is a magnificent yacht. The 2023 55-foot crewed catamaran is brand new with all the bells and whistles.
The yacht features the following:
- Guest capacity: 8
- Guest Cabins: 4
- Queen Beds: 4
- Showers: 4
- Heads: 4
- Air Conditioning: Full
- Generator: Yes
- Living/dining room: Yes
- Tenderlift: Yes
Sun Daze Crew
While Sun Daze is an amazing yacht, and the BVIs are spectacular, it was Kiki and Tiago that gave us an experience we will cherish for the rest of our lives.
Captain Tiago is an expert helmsman, having received his degree in Nautical Sciences, and is a former member of the Norwegian Merchant Navy. He has extensive nautical experience working as a Charter Captain and has worked on chemical tankers and seismic vessels.
Chef Kiki somehow managed to outdo herself day after day. She made incredible meals that catered to our preference sheet. Every day was a culinary adventure with inventive, healthy meals that had me eating far more than I should have. Her delectable creations had our tastebuds dancing with delight, including a Thanksgiving feast.
Getting to Your Yacht Charter in Tortola
Once we landed in St. Thomas, we needed to make our way to Tortola. There are a few ways to get from St. Thomas to Tortola. You can take the ferry, hire a private water taxi, or take a helicopter.
We opted to indulge and hired a private taxi through Island Time. Island Time made our transfer incredibly easy. The company arranged our land transfer from the St. Thomas airport to the marina, where we met our water taxi. From there, we jetted off to Tortola, where we efficiently cleared customs before reaching Scrub Island Marina.
7-Day BVI Yacht Charter Itinerary
Day 1: Tortola to Cooper Island (1 hour)
Kiki and Tiago warmly greeted us on the dock and welcomed us aboard Sun Daze. Waiting for us was a delicious snack and drinks. After a brief introduction, we were ready to set sail from Tortola to Cooper Island.
Tortola is the largest and most populated island in the BVIs, serving as the cultural and economic hub of the region. Initially settled by the Arawak people and later inhabited by Europeans, Tortola has a rich history. Its name comes from the Spanish word Tórtola, meaning turtle dove, reflecting the wildlife early explorers found on the island.
After a short trip over to Cooper Island, we immediately went swimming. The glistening warm blue water was calling our names. After a swim, we headed straight for the Rum Bar. It’s a cute island bar with every kind of rum you can possibly imagine. Further down a wood-raised walkway is a restaurant overlooking the bay.
We stayed at Rum Bar, where we sipped our cocktails, felt the warm breeze, and gazed out at the open ocean as we watched the beautiful sunset.
If we had more time, we would have liked to explore Tortola’s island attractions. Here is a list of things to do in Tortola that I hope to see and do next time we are in the BVIs.
Activities in Tortola
- Mount Sage National Park
- Cane Garden Bay
- Callwood Rum Distillery
- Smuggler’s Cove
- Brewer’s Bay
Home for the Night
Mooring off Cooper Island
Day 2: Cooper Island to Virgin Gorda (about 1 hour)
After a swim and breakfast, we left Cooper Island and headed toward our next stop, Virgin Gorda. The third-largest island in the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda, was named after Christopher Columbus, who thought the island resembled a reclining woman (Virgin Gorda means “fat virgin” in Spanish). Its natural beauty and laid-back charm have made it a favorite for luxury travelers.
Valley Trunk Bay
Instead of heading directly to the Baths National Park, Captain Tiago took us to a secluded white sand beach in Trunks Bay. The warm, clear water was so enticing we couldn’t wait to jump off the boat and swim ashore. We explored the little white sand beach before heading back to the boat and enjoying one of Kiki’s magnificent meals.
After lunch, we headed to Baths National Park in Virgin Gorda.
What are the Baths in the British Virgin Islands?
Today, the Baths are a significant tourist attraction for boaters in the BVIs. The Baths were naturally formed by large volcanic granite boulders that sit along the shoreline, creating tidal pools, grottos, and caves. The crystal-clear ocean water flows through the boulders and gets trapped, creating areas to relax and enjoy the shallow, warm water that heats up in the sun.
What is the history of the Baths?
The Baths, which we, as tourists, love to lounge in, were literal baths for slaves. The Baths were often the first place slaves were given an opportunity to wash themselves after the harrowing sail across the Atlantic and before being sold in the slave market.
The Baths were also popular with notorious pirates, like Bluebeard and Captain Kidd, who used Virgin Gorda as a home base to cause chaos.
Exploring Baths National Park
Tiago took us to the dingy drop-off point, where we could swim ashore. After a little confusion, we headed up the dirt path to the parking lot, where there was a little hut, an ocean-view restaurant with a pool, and shops. After paying an inexpensive entrance fee to the Baths National Park, we walked behind the hut and started our descent down toward the Caves and the Baths.
The dirt path was easy to walk down, and there are benches along the way so you can stop and enjoy the views. We walked through the Caves, swam in Devil’s Bay, and then headed to the Baths.
It had been over a decade since I had been to the Baths, and it was like visiting for the first time. We could have spent more time wandering through the rocky formations with ankle-to-waist-deep water. Staircases, small bridges, and ropes help navigate visitors through the labyrinth of boulders, pathways, nooks, and crannies.
Two spots we found particularly interesting in Baths were the dinosaur rock and the swirling sun tornado.
We only gave ourselves about 20 minutes, which was not enough time to fully immerse ourselves in the experience. Now that I made this mistake, you don’t have to.
In addition to the Caves and Baths, there are also several hiking trails inside Baths National Park.
Tips for Visiting Baths National Park
Pro Tip 1: A dry bag packed with a few beers, a towel, a hat, a camera, and a pair of water shoes would be ideal because the trail is not easy on bare feet. We wished we had a beer while relaxing in the warm water as we marveled at the tide pools.
Pro Tip 2: If you are not a strong swimmer, opt to drive to the Baths instead of swimming to shore. The swim is short, but the current can make a short swim feel far more difficult than it should be.
Pro Tip 3: Visiting in the afternoon was ideal when the crowds had gone for the day.
Other Things to Do in Virgin Gorda
While we only had time to visit Little Trunk Bay and the Baths, there are several other noteworthy activities in and around Virgin Gorda, such as:
- Copper Mine Ruins
- North Sound for watersports
- Prickly Pear Island for snorkeling
- Oil Nut Bay and Marina
- Old Jerusalem Island
- Long Bay
Dinner at CocoMaya
The ocean view, open-air restaurant is known as a good spot to watch the sunset. While dining, make sure you order the plantains. The sugar from the plantains mixed with the whipped yogurt is phenomenal. Hands down, the best plantains I have ever had. If you have a special occasion, ask for the ocean-front table segregated from the rest of the tables.
Pro Tip: During the high season, you need a reservation. CocoMaya is an extremely popular restaurant.
Home for the Night
Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbor dock slip
Day 3: Virgin Gorda to Bitter End (1 hour)
Bitter End Yacht Club
Originally established in the 1960s as a remote watering hole for sailors, the Bitter End has grown into a hub for water sports enthusiasts, dining, and relaxation. The Bitter End Yacht Club is now a world-renowned destination for sailing enthusiasts and luxury travelers alike.
The deep-water anchorage is protected by reefs and inlets, creating a calm, clear playground for ocean activities. Boaters can make a reservation at the marina or enjoy one of the 72 mooring balls.
Bitter End sits on the northeastern tip of Virgin Gorda and is aptly named because it’s the last safe harbor for sailors making the Atlantic crossing. The term “bitter end” also refers to the final link of an anchor chain—a fitting nod to its nautical heritage.
The area was heavily impacted by Hurricane Irma in 2017 but has since undergone a remarkable revival, reopening to welcome travelers with its signature charm.
Activities We Did While Staying at the Bitter End
Water Sports at the Bitter End Yacht Club
Known as a water sports paradise, the Bitter End offers everything from foils, windsurfing, and kiteboarding to stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking. Beginners can take lessons, while experienced adventurers can rent gear and explore on their own.
Gary and our friend participated in the beer-can small boat race that led to numerous capsizes, lots of black and blue marks, and ear-to-ear smiles.
Hike to Blunder Bay Overlook
We opted to do this hike the morning before we left for Little Jost Van Dyke.
Offering panoramic views of the North Sound and surrounding waters, the overlook is a must-see. The hour-long hike includes a bouldering challenge. Ropes have been installed to make the climb much easier.
Pro Tip: Go early to avoid the heat and wear longs and longs to avoid the mosquitoes.
Have a Drink or Stay at Saba Rock
Saba Rock is an island designed for fun. The two-story outdoor bar and restaurant gets lively. Saba Rock also features hotel rooms, a spa, a water sports center, and a souvenir shop. We stopped over for a drink at sunset. Given the sheer volume of dinghies, we weren’t the only ones with the same plan.
If you visit Saba Rock, head to the back, where all you can see is the open ocean.
Other Things to Do at Bitter End
- Explore North Sound (Bitter End): Embark on a dinghy or sailing excursion to the nearby islands of Prickly Pear or Mosquito Island.
- Dine at the Bitter End Clubhouse
Home for the Night
Bitter End mooring
Day 4: Bitter End to Little Jost Van Dyke (3 hours)
Our original plan for the next day was to stay near Guana, where the mooring balls are first come, first serve. Unfortunately, another boat pulled up to snag the last mooring ball a few minutes before us. But they say everything happens for a reason.
So, instead, we headed to Little Jost Van Dyke, It’s a small, quiet island perfect for travelers seeking solitude and natural beauty. This lesser-known destination is a haven for snorkelers, hikers, and those wanting to escape the crowds. Its untouched charm and rich marine ecosystem make it a hidden gem in the British Virgin Islands.
We were one of only a few boats moored off the island.
Things to Do on Little Jost Van Dyke
Visit Sandy Spit
Just off Little Jost Van Dyke, this tiny, and I mean tiny, white sand beach island is popular with divers. You can walk around the islet in about two minutes or walk across it in less than a minute. Fun fact, the spit became famous after a Corona Beer commercial was filmed on the island.
Have a Drink at B-Line
B-Line is a tiny bar that was so close to our boat that we swam there and back for a drink.
Other Activities on Little Yost Van Dyke
- Hiking the Trails: Little Jost Van Dyke has a network of trails that lead to scenic overlooks, hidden beaches, and remnants of old sugar mills from its colonial past.
- Bubbly Pool: While technically on the larger Jost Van Dyke, it’s an easy dinghy ride from Little Jost. This natural rock pool creates a frothy “jacuzzi” effect when the waves crash in, making it a fun stop for adventurers.
- Scuba Diving
Home for the Night
Little Jost Van Dyke mooring
Day 5: Little Jost Van Dyke to Jost Van Dyke (30 minutes)
Jost Van Dyke, the smallest of the main British Virgin Islands, was named for a Dutch privateer who used the island as a base in the 17th century. Centuries later, Jost Van Dyke is famous for its lively atmosphere. drawing visitors to its party-centric bars, beautiful beaches, and historical appeal.
We moored in White Bay, one of my favorite spots in the BVIs. The water is a gorgeous shade of clear teal that I can still vividly picture in my mind. We spent our day playing in the water, drinking at Soggy Dollar Bar and Hendo’s Hideout, and trying to master our own inflatable floating obstacle course. Trying to hop from one inflatable to another is not the brightest idea, especially after drinking. Despite some carnage, it was hysterical to watch.
Soggy Dollar Bar
Soggy Dollar Bar is not exactly what I remember. While it could be the alcohol or just the passage of time, I remember a low-key shack on the beach. Everyone’s money was soggy from swimming to shore, hence the name Soggy Dollar Bar.
It’s no longer a little shack on the beach. Now, it’s a party place with tons of people in the water and on land drinking their famous Pain Killers. A Pain Killer is a blend of premium dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple, and orange juice topped with Grenadian and freshly grated nutmeg.
I like day drinking as much as the next person, but neither the Pain Killers nor the Soggy Dollar Bar is my cup of tea. Although I must be the only one given the popularity of the bar and the drinks.
Hendo’s Hideout
We also had a drink at Hendo’s, which was more upscale, a term I use loosely. The bar was mostly empty when we were there, and it was a welcome respite from Soggy Dollar Bar. If we had more time, I would have liked to have visited some of the other island attractions.
Things to Do on Yoast Van Dyke
- Foxy’s Tamarind Bar: Located in Great Harbour, this legendary bar is the heart of Jost Van Dyke’s nightlife. Stop by for local Caribbean dishes, live music, and a laid-back vibe.
- Bubbly Pool: Found on the island’s north side, this natural rock pool fills with seafoam when waves crash in, creating a refreshing and fun jacuzzi effect.
- Get a Massage on the water at Ocean Spa: A floating dock with three massage rooms, each with plexiglass that lets you see the world below as you get your massage. Two people on our boat had massages at Ocean Spa and raved.
- Sidney’s Peace and Love: A well-known bar and lobster restaurant.
Home for the Night
White Bay mooring
Pro Tip: The moorings on the east side of White Bay, near Ocean Spa and Ivan’s Stress Free Bar, are more peaceful. It’s about a two-minute dingy ride to Soggy Dollar, or you can swim to shore and walk there, like we did. Or, if you are all about the party, then consider staying closer to Soggy Dollar Bar.
Day 6: Yoast Van Dyke to Norman Island (1-1.5 hours)
Norman Island is steeped in pirate lore, earning it the nickname “Treasure Island.” Historically, this uninhabited island served as a hiding place for pirates who used its many coves and caves to stash stolen goods. Today, its mysterious allure draws adventure seekers and snorkelers.
We explored Bight Bay, a natural harbor that offers calm waters and scenic beauty. Bight Bay is a favorite overnight anchorage for sailors and offers opportunities to swim, paddleboard, hike, or relax.
Things We Did on Normal Island
Visit the Caves
Dive into history as you snorkel these underwater grottoes, rumored to have hidden pirate treasure in the 18th century. We snorkeled in the Caves and saw some fish, but the schools were small. Since I have a fear of small underwater spaces where I can be pushed up against coral, I didn’t go to the back of the shallow caves.
There are day trippers from other islands that come to the Caves, so it can be busy with snorkelers.
Willy T
One of the most iconic spots in the BVIs is Willy T. The pirate-themed boat is known for its shot skis, dancing on the bar, and losing most of your inhibitions. During the day, it is fairly calm and kid-friendly, but at night, it’s a different story.
We were there celebrating a friend’s birthday and Thanksgiving. Our Captain and Chef created a Bingo card with challenges for us to complete. Let’s just say that we came in on a mission and had one of the best nights. One of the tamer activities of the night was jumping off the second story despite the sign warning us not to.
I have to give Chef Kiki a big thank you for an incredible Thanksgiving dinner. She had never cooked Thanksgiving dinner, but that didn’t stop her from creating an amazing celebratory meal.
Swimming near Normal Island
We also spent much of the day relaxing on Sun Daze and playing with the water toys on the boat. One of our favorite toys was an underwater sea scooter that we used to jet around Bight Bay.
Other Top Attractions on or Near Normal Island
- The Indians: Located just offshore, these jagged rocks rise dramatically from the sea. They are among one of the best snorkeling and diving sites in the BVIs.
- Hiking on Normal Island
Home for the Night
Bight Bay mooring
Pro Tip: If you prefer a peaceful night’s rest, opt for a morning across the bay from Willy T.
Day 7: Normal Island to Peter Island (1.5-2 hours)
Peter Island is one of the largest privately owned islands in the BVIs, spanning over 1,800 acres of lush landscapes and pristine beaches. Historically, the island was used as a base by pirates, and stories persist of buried treasures hidden in its coves. Today, Peter Island is synonymous with untouched natural ocean beauty.
The yachts tie up to the shore using a stern line and a bow anchor. The stern lines off each boat create a backyard of sorts for you to play behind your boat.
Little Harbor is calm and glassy like a lake – perfect for swimming, wakeboarding, tubing, and paddleboarding. And we tried it all. I gave wakeboarding a go, but it’s not nearly as easy as it looks. I thought my arms were going to rip out of their sockets. So, after giving it a few unsuccessful goes and choosing to save my limbs, a friend and I opted for tubing instead. I can still hear our giggles as we went flying through the air before we hit the water.
Other Things to Do on Peter Island
- Deadman’s Bay: This beach takes its name from a chilling legend of marooned pirates swimming ashore only to meet their demise. Despite its grim history, it’s now a tranquil spot for sunbathing and swimming.
- Sea Life: The island is known for sea turtles that feed on the grassy bottom.
- Peter Island Resort & Spa: The resort offers indulgent spa treatments and gourmet dining, perfect for those seeking relaxation after a day of adventure.
- Hiking Trails: Explore the Sunset Loop Trail, a 5-mile path offering panoramic views of the Caribbean and the neighboring islands. Hiking Sunset Loop should be reserved for those in good physical shape who can tackle the last 1.5 miles at the end of the trail, which goes straight up.
Home for the Night
Little Harbor
Day 8: Peter Island to Tortola (2 hours or so)
On our final morning, we went for one last swim before making the couple-hour journey back to Scrub Island in Tortola.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the best time to visit the British Virgin Islands?
The best time to visit the BVIs is in the high season (December to April) when the weather is warm and dry. A visit in May or November can be a good time to visit as well, but the weather can be unpredictable. We went at the end of November and had excellent weather.
Do I have to clear customs and immigration when visiting the British Virgin Islands?
Generally, the answer is yes. But if you splurge for a private water taxi, like Island Time, they take care of the necessary customs paperwork, making clearing customs fast and easy.
Do you have any packing tips?
You are not going to need much since you will spend most of your time in the water or relaxing on the boat. Ideally, pack light with breathable, quick-drying clothing, waterproof bags, and snorkeling gear if it’s not included with your yacht.
Be sure to pack bathing suits, reef-safe sunscreen, hats, rash guards, water shoes, and soft luggage.
How do I stay safe in the BVIs?
Be water-smart and don’t swim alone.
Do I need trip insurance?
If trip insurance is not required, you might still want to opt for medical insurance just in case something happens. I saw someone jumping off Willy T, and it all went wrong. She slipped as she was jumping and ended up with a huge gash on her leg. I have been using Faye Insurance when I travel.
How much does a yacht charter cost in the British Virgin Islands?
The cost of the trip depends on a couple of factors, such as whether you opt for a bareboat (no captain), the size of the boat, the staffing level, the time of year, and whether you eat all your meals on board. A luxury crewed charter in the BVIs can range between $14,000 in the low season to over $100,000 in the high season for a large yacht. In addition, the yacht charter does not include tips, excursions, and or transportation to/from the yacht.
Is there a minimum night requirement for yacht charters in the BVIs?
Most yacht charters are for seven days, but shorter charters can sometimes be arranged.
How do I choose the perfect yacht for my BVI adventure?
You have several options when chartering a boat in the Caribbean. However, choosing a luxury yacht charter comes down to a few key points:
- Number of guests to help figure out how many staterooms you need
- Deciding whether you want a crewed yacht or Caribbean bareboat charter
- Whether you plan to eat most of your meals on the boat
- The time of year
- Aligning these decisions with your budget
Answering these questions will help you focus on the size of the boat that works best for you and your budget.
We sailed on Sun Daze, a boat in the Myst Charters fleet. Everything on our charter went seamlessly, and they made the booking process easy. Feel free to reach out to me if you are interested in booking with Myst Charters.
Are British Virgin Islands sailing charters popular?
Yes! Most islands we visited were filled with couples, families, and friends enjoying a yacht charter.
BVI Yacht Charter Takeaways
From snorkeling coral reefs and exploring shipwrecks to indulging at relaxing spas and lively beach bars, the British Virgin Islands promise a sailing experience like no other. Each island has its own unique charm, ensuring your weeklong journey is both unforgettable and tailored to your sense of adventure. This was my second time sailing the BVIs. There are so many options of things to do that I could visit the same islands and do something completely different without getting bored.
I cannot wait to go back!
Ready to set sail to the BVIs? Leave a comment below and let me know if you want to visit the British Virgin Islands.
If you enjoyed this guide, you might also enjoy my posts about sailing in the Exumas, staying at Baha Mar in the Bahamas, or learning about the best Baha Mar restaurants.
Pin to Pinterest
