sailing in the BVIs

The four main islands, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost Van Dyke are encircled by a series of much smaller, enchantingly named islands.

Sailing in the BVI allows the chance to visit several, from ‘Fallen Jerusalem’ to ‘Dead Chest’,  ‘Salt Island’ and ‘Ginger Island’; each is totally captivating.

These smaller islands with their delightful titles conjure up tales of treasure maps and piracy, harking back to the days of explorers and pirates. Follow in the wake of Sir Frances Drake through the aptly named Sir Frances Drake Channel as you navigate from one isle to the next.

After a night under the stars, the perfect way to start the day “island style” is with a swim, diving over the side into balmy crystal waters.  A breakfast gleaming with fresh tropical fruits starts the day in anticipation of sailing to our next destination.

Things to do in the BVI

Scattered along the northern edge of the Caribbean Sea, bordering the Atlantic Ocean, these islands and cays provide some of the best diving and snorkelling encounters anywhere in the Caribbean.

From underwater national parks to spectacular reefs and historic shipwrecks, there is an underwater world teeming with colourful fish and vibrant coral waiting to be discovered. A renowned highlight is ‘The Baths’ on the island of Virgin Gorda. Here, amongst the white coral sands, giant boulders known as Batholiths form wonderful caves and glistening blue pools, picturesque and perfect for snorkelling.

After a day spent relaxing in the sun or drifting through the balmy water, head ashore to discover the numerous cultural highlights. Thanks to the British Virgin Islands’ strategic geographical location and tropical climate, the islands have a long industrial history.

Cotton plantations were introduced in 1750, and during their heyday, resulted in exports of over a million pounds of cotton to the Lancashire mills.  As the demand for cotton trade declined, sugar plantations took their place and the islands began exporting cane and molasses, from which the locals made Rum.

Callwood Rum Distillery on Tortola is the last remaining one operating in the BVI, welcoming visitors to explore, learn about the history and sample the delicious cane rum.

To experience the natural landscapes of the BVI’s, enjoy a hike in Sage Mountain National Park. Take the trail up through the lush rainforest to the highest point in both the US and BVI islands at 1,710 feet. The views across the archipelago are totally spellbinding.

Wildlife

Wildlife in the BVI’s is remarkable, with plenty of chances to encounter marine animals. The area is known for Green, Leatherback, and Loggerhead Sea Turtles as well as Ocean Sunfish and Bottlenose dolphins, which frequently swim with the wake of the bow.

Whales also frequent the warm waters here as they provide the perfect breeding grounds for the Humpback whale and rare Pygmy Sperm whale.

Birdlife in the Caribbean is a colourful affair, so keep your binoculars at the ready to spot these incredible delights – some species are only native to the Caribbean, so these can be once-in-a-lifetime encounters.

Pink Flamingoes are also commonly spotted, as well as Pelicans, which inhabit the blue lagoons, mudflats and lakes, living in colonies that can contain thousands of individuals.

Sailing Conditions in the BVI’s

Sailing in the BVI’s is excellent all year round, with the islands enjoying steady warm winds of around 15-50 knots. The temperate climate, with plenty of sunshine, makes for a very pleasant sailing holiday, whether you’re a first-time sailor or more experienced. With calmer waters around the islands and slightly stronger winds further out, sailing here combines the best of both.