Sailing the British Virgin Islands

December 23, 2011

The BVI has over 60 islands, crystal clear waters and gentle tropical winds, making it one of the top sailing destinations in the world. These were a few of my favorite island stops on a charter from the Moorings.

Diamond Cay, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands : This has one of the best unknown snorkeling spots in the BVI if you are willing to wade through the flats and follow the shoreline to the tip of the island. The cove is a great place to moor for the night and is home to hawksbill sea turtles, stingrays and lots of tropical fish. Don't feel like cooking? Head over to Foxy's Tabu for an amazing local island meal.Julie Wilson

The Baths, British Virgin Islands : The Baths are probably the most popular and unique beaches in the BVI. Boulders the size of houses are perfectly stacked, creating grottos and caves to climb through and snorkel around. Moorings are available along the coastline for overnight anchoring and easy access to the beaches.Julie Wilson

Peter Island, British Virgin Islands: Peter Island is considered one of the most romantic islands in the BVI. The Peter Island Resort & Spa welcomes day guests to enjoy their private restaurants, beaches and shops. Ask Captain to make one of his popular cocktails.Julie Wilson

Tortola, British Virgin Islands : The capital of the British Virgin Islands, Tortola has numerous anchorages and secluded beaches to roam. Cane Garden Bay is loaded with beachfront restaurants, live music and plenty of bars pouring delicious rum concoctions.Julie Wilson

Cooper Island, British Virgin Islands : Cooper Island is one of the smaller, more laid-back islands. The shoreline has colorful bungalows, a dive operation and one of the best gift shops in the BVI.Julie Wilson

The Indians, British Virgin Islands : The Indians are located near Norman Island and stick out like a sore thumb in the middle of the Drake Channel. Considered one of the best snorkeling spots in the BVI, they are home to a rare triggerfish, and have an underwater tunnel. Make sure to anchor early as it gets busy with tour boats.Julie Wilson

Sandy Spit, British Virgin Islands : Located between Jost Van Dyke and Tortola, Sandy Spit has powder white sand, calm and clear waters and can be circumnavigated in about 3 minutes. Great for a lazy day on the beach.Julie Wilson

Monkey Point, Guana Island, British Virgin Islands : This island is only accessible by boat and well worth the stop. With an abundance of marine life, this rocky shoreline is home to big tarpon, schools of minnows and assorted tropical fish.Julie Wilson

Norman Island, British Virgin Islands : This uninhabited island is famous for its stories of pirates and treasure caves. It also has secluded coves for snorkeling, an amazing hiking trail that leads to breathtaking views, and the Willy T, a permanent floating bar known to draw an enthusiastic crowd.Julie Wilson

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