Sail the British Virgin Islands

The World's Most Popular Tropical Charter Destination

The British Virgin Islands are mostly volcanic in origin, the northernmost point in a geological feature that stretches island by island all the way to Grenada. As a result the terrain in the BVIs is generally rugged. But there is an exception. Anegada, the group's second largest island, is a flat limestone and coral island that provides the visitor with a striking contrast in scenery and vacation experience. 

These sailing grounds offer an ideal blend of easy deep-water island hops, consistent trade winds, line-of-sight navigation and plentiful sheltered anchorages. All that makes for an excellent family-friendly destination that's perfect for sailing holidays.

The Virgin Islands receive less rainfall than many other parts of the Caribbean. That means crystal-clear water in which to enjoy the amazing snorkelling and diving conditions, or to simply take in the sight of an endlessly sandy sea floor spotted with brilliant colour. Add picture-perfect beaches, extraordinary rock formations by land and sea, numerous onshore attractions and a great selection of bars and restaurants, and it's easy to see why the British Virgin Islands are so popular with boat charterers.  

BVI charters center around Tortola and its nearby islands. Armed with information and a personalized itinerary, your sailing vacation can include Anegada to the northeast. There are numerous beautiful places within a short passage of each other to stop over on any day sail around the BVIs, for a sailing holiday to remember.

The British Virgin Islands' popularity as a charter destination has meant a large investment in boats and infrastructure. So there are plenty of choices for the charter that best suits your needs. Competition keeps prices reasonable, with specials being listed almost on a daily basis. Let us sort through all the available boats and present you with your ideal boat at the best possible price.

Some of the operator companies we work with offer extra services unique to this destination. Take advantage of any deals on offer as we personalize a proposal just for you, helping you plan an unforgettably rewarding sailing holiday in the BVIs.

The British Virgin islands are easily accessible from St Thomas in the US Virgin islands, either on a USVI-based charter or by scenic one-hour ferry ride to Tortola. It is also possible to include the BVIs in a charter out of Fajardo, eastern Puerto Rico, subject to proof of sufficient sailing experience. 

What are the sailing conditions like in the Virgin Islands ?

The Virgin Islands offer some of the most accessible and enjoyable sailing in the Caribbean, ideal for both first-timers and seasoned sailors. Prevailing trade winds blow consistently from the east at 10–20 knots, short distances between islands mean less time sailing and more time relaxing, the waters are well charted with plenty of sheltered anchorages, minimal tidal range and good marine infrastructure. Continue reading...

What expenses should I expect during a BVI bareboat charter?

While your bareboat charter includes the yacht itself, there are several additional costs to factor into your holiday budget. These vary depending on your itinerary, provisioning style and personal preferences. Continue reading...

Should I start a Virgin Islands charter from Tortola (BVI), St. Thomas (USVI) or San Juan (Puerto Rico)?

Your choice of charter base in the Virgin Islands, whether Tortola in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), St. Thomas in the US Virgin Islands (USVI), or San Juan in Puerto Rico, depends on convenience, sailing plans and travel logistics. Continue reading...

When is the best time to charter in the Virgin Islands?

The best time to charter in the Virgin Islands depends on your priorities: weather, budget, crowds and sailing conditions. With warm temperatures year-round and steady trade winds, there’s truly no bad time to go. But a few seasonal patterns can help you decide what works best for your group. Continue reading...

Where can we get away from it all on our BVI charter?

For those who love to explore by sail, the British Virgin Islands offer so much. Beyond the popular moorings you will call at for provisioning and the nightlife, lie peaceful anchorages, untouched beaches and wildlife-rich bays that reward you for going a little further. Continue reading...

Where is the British Virgin Islands' sailing charter base?

The main sailing charter base in the British Virgin Islands is located at Wickhams Cay II Marina in Road Town, Tortola. This is the central hub for most charter departures and home to several major operators. Continue reading...

What are the best air connections to the British Virgin Islands from USA and Europe?

Here are some of the best air connections to the British Virgin Islands (BVI) from the USA and Europe (effective June 2025): Continue reading...