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.
Distance from the Airport:
Airport: Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS), located on Beef Island, east of Tortola
Travel Time to Base: Approximately 25–30 minutes by taxi or shuttle from the airport to Wickhams Cay II
Route: A scenic coastal drive across the Queen Elizabeth Bridge linking Beef Island to Tortola, continuing into Road Town
Additional Notes:
If arriving via St. Thomas (USVI), you’ll likely take a ferry or water taxi to Road Town Ferry Terminal, which is only a few minutes from the charter base.
Sail Connections can arrange private transfers from the airport or ferry terminal to ensure a smooth arrival and timely boarding of your yacht.
Whether you’re chartering bareboat or with a skipper and crew, Road Town’s Wickhams Cay II is the primary and best-equipped starting point for sailing in the BVI.
Related FAQs
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):
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.
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.
Should I start my Virgin Islands charter from St Thomas, Tortola or Puerto Rico?
The best departure point depends on where you want to sail. St Thomas is ideal for exploring the US Virgin Islands, Tortola is generally more convenient for the British Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico offers access to the Spanish Virgin Islands. Flight connections, yacht availability and cruising permissions should also influence your choice.
When is the best time to charter in the Virgin Islands?
December to April is the principal yacht charter season in the Virgin Islands, with warm weather and generally reliable trade winds. May and June can also be attractive, with fewer visitors. The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June to November, making late summer and autumn less suitable for charter holidays.
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.