A Local's Guide to Sailing in the BVI

July 11, 2020 5 min

Thinking about a sailing getaway in the British Virgin Islands? Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned sailor returning for more, the BVI offers an exhilarating mix of adventure and tranquility. Let’s dive into some insider tips to help you craft the ultimate yachting experience.

Along with local Andy Morrell, the owner of BVI’s casual apparel line, HIHO, we’ll be sharing where to go, what to see, and a handful more BVI sailing tips. Let us be your guides for cruising the BVI.

One of the many things that make the BVI such a pleasant sailing arena is the proximity of the islands to one another. But you can do a longer passage too; you can depart Anegada and head to Jost Van Dyke. You’ll be traversing the BVI with Tortola to your port side. It’s a great downwind sail which, in good wind should take you four or five hours with few fellow boaters to watch out for.

Sail to BVI’s Best Bars

Ready to anchor down and unwind? The BVI’s vibrant bar scene awaits. After a day of sailing, there’s nothing better than a refreshing drink at a local hangout. Let’s follow Andy’s advice to discover the top spots for a memorable night out.

Andy’s local bar tips

“We are partial to White Bay and the Soggy Dollar Bar. It can get overcrowded, but it’s always a good time. Make sure to order the infamous “painkiller” cocktail with Gosling’s Rum because it just tastes better. You can also get the same White Bay experience by eating and drinking at Hendo’s Hideout, which is alongside Soggy Dollar. If you have a ‘wild’ side, then Willy-T’s floating bar in The Bight, Norman Island never disappoints.”

Find BVI’s Best Anchorages

Looking for the perfect spot to drop anchor? Andy’s got some top-notch BVI sailing itinerary recommendations that blend stunning views with a touch of local charm. Here’s where you can enjoy the serene BVI waters at their best, according to a seasoned local.

Andy’s anchorage tips

“Even though it is busy sometimes, between the multiple bars and restaurants, mega yachts, and recreation options, you have to give the North Sound its due. It’s where we tend to go when we take a weekend off to go sailing. You can even spend a couple of days up there.”

“Stay the night moored off Saba Rock, Leverick Bay or Oil Nut Bay Marina in the Eustatia Sound, then swing around the back of Prickly Pear for some peace and quiet or head down to anchor in the lee of Colquhoun Reef above Mosquito Island.”

Trade Your Yacht for a SUP

For a couple of hours at least, you can hop off your charter and try your hand at stand up paddleboarding on the BVI coast. If you’re a beginner or intermediate paddleboarder, it’s a good idea to have someone join you in a dinghy, but you’ll want to know where to go too…

Andy’s SUP tips

“SUP is one of our favorite watersports. It’s easy and fun for all. We say the first time you climb atop you are an intermediate SUP’er. Go gunkholing around the Baths or do a down-winder on the Northside of Little Jost Van Dyke.”

Stop at the Top BVI Snorkeling Spots

SUP is great for exploring above the water, but what about underneath? Snorkeling in the BVI is a thrill-seeker’s best way to explore marine life, but use Andy’s tips to do it safely during your sailing vacation in the BVI.

Andy’s snorkeling tips

“Without question, the best snorkeling site is at The Indian’s. There’s so much to see here, including underwater caves and plenty of tropical fish. The current can be a bit robust though, so use caution if you aren’t a strong swimmer.”

“If you want to channel your inner adrenaline-junkie, jump off the south corner of Sandy Spit and poke around on the corner of the reef where the odd reef shark sighting isn’t uncommon.”

The Baths

Moor at a Can’t-Miss Beach

Beaches are one of BVI’s top draws, and you know that a local will have the inside knowledge for fine sands and perfect surf.

Andy’s beach tips

“Without a doubt our favorite beach is Valley Trunk Bay, which is just to the north of The Baths. There are handy moorings to pick up or drop the hook. Swim ashore and lounge in the sugary sand and sparkling clear water. It’s rare to see more than a few other people on this slice of paradise.”

Discover the Solitude of BVI

The high season in the BVI is considered to be between December-April, but is an all-year round destination for sailors. If you’ve already visited some of the most popular locations, you might be craving some quiet relaxation time.

Andy’s secret escape tips

“Just beyond Devil’s Bay and off the tip of Virgin Gorda is Fallen Jerusalem, a tiny island that is essentially an extension of The Baths. Littered with boulders and interspersed with quaint beaches, it makes for a great day stop if you want to get away from the crowds. There is a mooring off the northwest tip of the island. Pick it up and swim ashore to the Instagram-worthy beach.”

“Alternatively, drop your anchor in Brewers Bay on Tortola’s north shore, where the island’s lush mountains spill down to the beach. There are no moorings, no beach bars and 10 boats is a crowd. While there is a lot of reef in this bay, it’s very easy to see. Anchor on the north side off the houses or head straight in and moor off the west end of the long sandy beach. This bay is very exposed to north swells so proceed with caution or simply avoid it in the winter months.”

Stretch Your Legs

There is no shortage of hiking trails in the BVI, and they range from a gentle stroll to a more challenging scramble. If you’re looking for opportunities to stretch out your legs on your land stops, you’ll want to test out Andy’s recommendations.

Andy’s hiking tips

“There is a tiny hike on Sandy Cay that doesn’t even require shoes. Just enter at the sign off the beach and pop back out after looping around the little island. A longer hike is the length of Jost Van Dyke. Start at Foxy’s Taboo and hike west to White Bay, or go the other way. This is a big hike so bring water and wear sun protection.”

“Not so much a hike but rather a good long walk down Anegada’s North shore is another fun option. Start anywhere you want and finish at Cow Wreck beach bar. And if you get hot just jump into the water and cool off.”

Explore the BVI

The British Virgin Islands await with their stunning vistas and myriad adventures both on land and at sea. Ready to explore the BVI like a local? Dive into our yachting paradise and see why one trip is never enough. Contact us to book your dream sailing vacation today!

It truly is a dream destination for a top-notch vacation. And it’s not the kind of place you’ll want to visit just once. Once you try the BVI yacht charter experience, we bet you’ll come back!

About Andy Morell: Growing up on Tortola means Andy pretty much knows every island, bay & reef in the BVI like the back of his hand. He lives for sun-drenched days on the water and recommends wearing a HIHO Suntek SPF shirt to stay comfortable and protect your skin from the Caribbean’s strong UV rays.

WHISK ME AWAY TO THE BVI