The Best of the British Virgin Islands

We all want to experience the best of any destination; to see the must-see sites and get to know in person everything we’ve heard about it in the past. Every place has a certain things to do, places to stay and ways to travel that will really allow you to get up close to it, and in the British Virgin Islands the thing to do is travel by boat.

The region is a sailing paradise of crystalline waters. It has even been dubbed the cruising capital of the world. Friendly islands with short passages between them, comfortable winds and currents and well equipped marinas make this moniker completely appropriate.

So how can you board a boat in the BVI? Of course those with sailing experience can do a bareboat charter and experience the freedom of renting a sailboat to explore on their own. But for those of us who prefer to sit back and enjoy the ride a crewed yacht charter is really the way to go.

What is a Crewed Charter?

Not all of us have had the opportunity to look into spending our holiday on a private yacht. In fact, the idea conjures up images of celebrities on mega yachts. But in reality, a crewed yacht charter is a sailing yacht or catamaran with crew. They are luxurious, comfortable boats with a full crew to not only navigate the boat but prepare all meals and beverages.

This means you can sit back and relax in your comfortable berth or on deck as your crew takes care of all of the details. You’ll also be able to take full advantage of your crew’s local knowledge; they’ll take you to special hidden places and can often make good recommendations for things to do on land.

Sailing through the Islands: What’s in Store

You can imagine the vast beauty of this special region of the Caribbean; its turquoise horizons, white sand beaches and lush greenery. But for some more specific facts on how a crewed yacht allows you to experience the best of the BVI, consider the following itinerary.

Arrive on Tortola and ‘move on board’. You’ll meet your skipper and crew and then set off to Norman Island. After a gourmet dinner on board you can relax on deck or go ashore for a cocktail at a local pub.

On day two you’ll sail to the Baths of Virgin Gorda, one of the region’s most breath-taking sites. Spend the day snorkelling, swimming and taking photos.

You decide where to go on day three; let your crew know what you feel like doing! The next day you’ll visit Anegada, home of one of the world’s largest barrier reefs. You can rest on the island’s pristine beaches or do something more active such as hiking or diving.

Then sail to the island of Jost van Dyke, stopping for a swim on the tiny uninhabited island of Green Cay. On your final day you can visit Sopers Hull, a famous pirate haunt.

Perhaps the best thing about a yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands is that you can really chart your own course as you relax in luxury. Consider this option for experiencing the best this region has to offer.