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. Here’s a collection of lesser-known places that sailors consistently give positive feedeback on - BVI locations you can only reach with your own charter yacht.

1. Eustatia Sound (Virgin Gorda)
Sheltered and serene, Eustatia Sound lies just north of the North Sound bustle. With calm anchorages, a thriving marine environmant and a quiet beauty, it's a favourite with sailors who want to paddleboard or snorkel far from crowds.

2. Muskmelon Bay (Guana Island)
Cliff-lined and wonderfully quiet, Muskmelon Bay is a snorkeller’s dream. The coral gardens here teem with marine life and offer one of the most peaceful day stops in the BVI. Guana is a private resort island. 

3. Benures Bay (Norman Island)
Just around the headland from Pirate’s Bight, Benures Bay offers a prime position for snorkelling Norman Island’s caves. It’s often calm and aurprisingly empty, so the perfect overnight anchorage, keeeping in mid space is limited if it's a busy day. 

4. Lee Bay and Cam Bay (Great Camanoe)
These quiet west-facing anchorages provide a great break from the busier islands nearby. With reef-protected waters, they're ideal for snorkelling.

5. Key Bay (Peter Island)
Key Bay still has an untouched feel about it. Go ashore for a walk among wild goats and cacti, or stay aboard and enjoy the isolation with a view over the Drake Channel.

6. White Bay (Peter Island)
A contrast to its better-known namesake on Jost Van Dyke Island, this less visited bay has calm waters for some gentle snorkelling, a place that's perfect for an easy day afloat. 

7. Sandy Cay and Diamond Cay
Tiny Sandy Cay is postcard-perfect and uninhabited, ideal for a short beach walk. Diamond Cay nearby has moorings and access to the Bubbly Pool, a natural wave-powered jacuzzi.

8. Cooper Island (Manchioneel Bay)
Cooper Island Beach Club draws sailing charterers with its reef diving and clear waters. It’s a very relaxing spot for lunch or a peaceful night at anchor.

9. Little Jost Van Dyke and Green Cay
Little Jost Van Dyke is a great place to stretch sea legs and go hiking. Green Cay next door is a haven for birds and a superb swim stop. 

10. Dead Chest and Pelican Island
At these outposts around Peter Island, imagine the pirate legends said to have unfolded here. Snorkel among reefs and explore caves in the underwater playground. 

Each of these locations offer genuine reward for those travelling around the BVIs under sail. They’re quiet, uncrowded, and scenic, often just a short reach from more well-known spots while delivering a completely different experience.

Related FAQs

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.

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 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...