The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are perfect for an all-inclusive yacht charter, offering calm waters, steady trade winds, and breathtaking islands at every turn. From navigating past the iconic giant boulders of Virgin Gorda Island to relaxing on the beautiful beach of White Bay, a BVI sailing itinerary promises unforgettable adventures. Whether planning a 6 night/7 day charter trip or a 7 night/8-day sailing itinerary, you’ll find the perfect route to make the most of your time on the water. While we provide sample itineraries to give you a general idea of what to expect, the best part of booking a private yacht charter in BVI is that you can customize your trip based on your preferences. Your route may also be adjusted slightly due to the weather conditions during your charter.
Why Sail the BVI on a Crewed Yacht Charter?
The British Virgin Islands are renowned for their ideal sailing conditions, making them one of the top cruising destinations in the world. When you sail the BVI on a fully crewed yacht charter, you’re treated to an unparalleled experience of luxury and relaxation. With calm sailing lanes, balmy trade winds, and short distances between islands, your professional crew handles the navigation while you soak in the scenery and enjoy every moment.
Beyond the effortless travel, a crewed charter offers something for everyone. Adventure seekers can enjoy excellent snorkeling on vibrant coral reefs at Norman Island and Cistern Point. At the same time, those seeking relaxation can lounge on the soft sandy shores of White Bay or savor a delicious dinner prepared by the onboard chef. Your crew can also take you to hidden gems like Diamond Cay and Sandy Spit, where calm waters and breathtaking views create unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re sipping cocktails on deck as you pass the iconic massive boulders of The Baths at majestic Virgin Gorda or enjoying the lively atmosphere at Willy T near Peter Island, a fully crewed yacht charter in the BVI blends freedom, comfort, and adventure into a once-in-a-lifetime journey.
Where Do You Start Your BVI Cruising Itinerary?
You will embark on your BVI cruising itinerary at Nanny Cay Resort and Marina on Tortola. Positioned conveniently between Road Town and the West End, Nanny Cay offers easy access to the Sir Francis Drake Channel and a gateway to more than 60 islands scattered across the stunning Caribbean Sea. Road Town offers easy access to provisioning, gift shops, dining options, and marinas, making it the ideal starting point for your adventure.
If you arrive in St. Thomas, we recommend taking the ferry or a private water taxi to Tortola. If your schedule allows, we strongly suggest staying the night in Tortola before your yacht charter departs at noon the next day. If you need help determining the best transfer options for your flight, WLMS Yacht Charters is happy to assist you.
6 Night/7 Day BVI Sailing Itinerary
You can use this British Virgin Islands cruising guide as a sample 6 night/7 day BVI itinerary. However, weather conditions and your group’s preferences will determine your actual itinerary during the yacht charter.
Day 1: Nanny Cay – Peter Island
Just 4 kilometers from Tortola, Peter Island is a must-visit destination for luxury yacht charters in the British Virgin Islands. As the largest private island in the BVI, Peter Island offers an unspoiled escape with pristine beaches and scenic nature trails. The highlight is Deadman’s Bay Beach, where soft sands and calm waters create an idyllic setting for sunbathing and relaxation.
The island’s natural beauty is complemented by its rich marine life, making it a perfect spot for snorkeling and diving. Watch for graceful sea turtles swimming near the shores as you explore the vibrant underwater world. With much of the island remaining underdeveloped, it’s easy to immerse yourself in the lush tropical surroundings, discovering unique flora and fauna.
Your crewed yacht charter provides the perfect balance of adventure and serenity, giving you a front-row seat to the tranquil beauty of Peter Island as you kick off your BVI sailing itinerary in style.
Day 2: Peter Island – Virgin Gorda
The third-largest island in the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda, is located about 12 miles from Tortola on the western side of Anegada. Legend states that Christopher Columbus named the island “Fat Virgin” because its silhouette resembles a woman lying on her side.
Virgin Gorda is the quintessential Caribbean destination, known for its breathtaking natural beauty, national parks, and unspoiled beaches. The island has quiet coves and safe anchorages, perfect for yacht charters. One of its most famous attractions is The Baths, a stunning geological formation of massive granite boulders that create scenic grottos, hidden pools, and unique passageways.
Sailing to Virgin Gorda offers a perfect blend of exploration and relaxation. You can spend your day marveling at the dramatic landscapes, snorkeling through crystal-clear waters, or simply enjoying the island’s serene atmosphere as your crew caters to your every need.
Day 3: Virgin Gorda – The Baths
Known as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, this otherworldly landscape features pink granite slabs, hidden coves, cathedral-like caves, and shimmering saltwater pools perched on the sea’s edge. The massive boulders have been fitted with ladders and ropes, creating a natural obstacle course for adventurous visitors. You can wade through the warm rock pools, bask in the sun on your favorite boulder, and explore the enchanting natural grottos.
When it’s time to refresh, head to the nearby yacht club for a long, luxurious lunch or an indulgent afternoon at the spa. This iconic spot offers a perfect blend of natural wonder and relaxation, making it a highlight of your BVI sailing itinerary.
Day 4: The Baths – Saba Rock
Beautifully positioned between the “holy trinity” of Prickly Pear Island, Necker Island, and the impressive shores of Virgin Gorda, Saba Rock is a destination in its own right. After spending the morning climbing ropes and crossing The Baths’ majestic boulders, sail to Saba Rock for an afternoon of tropical bliss. This pint-sized island is famous for its bustling outdoor restaurant and laid-back yet electric vibe. A favorite among the yachting crowd, Saba Rock invites guests to enjoy barefoot lunches that stretch long into the afternoon.
For a touch of history, visit the touch tank filled with coral-encrusted anchors from a 19th-century shipwreck, or browse the quaint boutiques for a spot of island shopping. As the sun sets, Saba Rock becomes the perfect place to sip a tropical cocktail and watch the sky transform into a canvas of fiery hues—a true highlight of your BVI yacht charter adventure.
Day 5: Saba Rock – Anegada
Anegada is the northernmost island of the British Virgin Islands and stands out as a unique destination. Unlike the volcanic islands in the region, Anegada is a flat coral island with its highest point at only 28 feet (8.5 meters) above sea level. This low-lying island is surrounded by the impressive Horseshoe Reef, one of the world’s largest coral reefs, which protects its immaculate white-sand beaches.
Visitors to Anegada are captivated by its serene beauty, where small beach shacks serve fresh seafood and tropical drinks. The island’s salt ponds were once home to thousands of flamingos, and thanks to recent conservation efforts, these graceful birds have returned, flourishing once again. The island is also home to endangered rock iguanas and several sea turtles nesting along its shores.
Day 6: Anegada – Jost Van Dyke
Named after an early Dutch settler, Jost Van Dyke is a small yet picturesque island northwest of Tortola. At just 4 miles long, this charming island is home to only a few hundred permanent residents and is beloved for its idyllic yacht anchorages and secluded charm.
Perfect for those seeking a serene escape, Jost Van Dyke spoils visitors with its lush green forests, powdery beaches, and inviting turquoise waters. The simplicity and tranquility of the island make it an ideal spot to unwind, whether you’re enjoying a peaceful swim, exploring the scenic coastline, or simply soaking in the breathtaking views from your crewed yacht.
Day 7: Jost Van Dyke – Nanny Cay
On your final day, you sail back to Nanny Cay. Whether unwinding on the sugar-sand beaches or gearing up for one last water sports adventure, Nanny Cay offers the perfect mix of convenience and charm. It’s an ideal place to reflect on the memories made during your fully crewed yacht charter before disembarking and heading home.
7 Night/8 Day BVI Sailing Itinerary
You can use this British Virgin Islands cruising guide as a sample 7 night/8 day BVI itinerary. However, weather conditions and your group’s preferences will determine your actual itinerary during the yacht charter.
Day 1: Nanny Cay – Norman Island
Your BVI sailing itinerary starts with a scenic journey from Nanny Cay to Norman Island. Perched on the edge of the Francis Drake Channel, Norman Island is steeped in legend and allure. Said to be the inspiration behind Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, this picturesque spot invites adventure seekers with its tales of hidden treasure.
The Bight is one of the most scenic harbors in the British Virgin Islands, offering over 100 moorings and providing the perfect base for activities like snorkeling, diving, and hiking. The island’s surrounding waters are home to vibrant marine life, making it an ideal location for underwater exploration.
No visit to Norman Island is complete without a stop at Pirates Bight, an oceanfront beach club and restaurant with a relaxed pavilion-style ambiance. Here, you can savor a delicious meal while enjoying panoramic views of the harbor, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a day of adventure.
Day 2: Norman Island – Cooper Island
Next, you will sail to the enchanting Cooper Island, a gem in the British Virgin Islands known for its serene beauty and laid-back charm. As you arrive at Manchioneel Bay, you’ll be greeted by crystal-clear waters perfect for your first snorkel of the trip. Dive into vibrant coral gardens, where colorful fish dart between the reefs, and let the gentle waves set the tone for your island adventure.
Cooper Island Beach Club is the heart of this idyllic destination, offering a blissful combination of luxury and eco-conscious living. The private resort and marina provide everything from cozy seaside dining to sunset cocktails at their renowned rum bar, making it the perfect place to unwind after a day on the water.
The nearby Wreck Alley offers a thrilling underwater experience for those seeking adventure. This popular dive site is home to sunken ships and reefs teeming with marine life, ideal for keen snorkelers and divers alike.
Day 3: Cooper Island – The Baths
The unrivaled star of Virgin Gorda, The Baths is a fairytale destination for any yacht charter. Known as one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, this otherworldly landscape features pink granite slabs, hidden coves, cathedral-like caves, and shimmering saltwater pools perched on the edge of the Caribbean Sea.
The massive boulders have been fitted with ladders and ropes, creating a natural obstacle course for adventurous visitors. You can wade through the warm rock pools, bask in the sun on your favorite boulder, and explore the enchanting natural grottos.
When it’s time for a refreshment, the nearby yacht club will tempt you with long, lavish lunches and indulgent afternoons at the spa. The Baths offer the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a highlight of your BVI sailing itinerary.
Day 4: The Baths – Saba Rock
After an adventurous morning exploring the dramatic granite formations of The Baths, set sail for the iconic Saba Rock, perfectly positioned among Prickly Pear Island, Necker Island, and Virgin Gorda’s northern tip. As you sail across the clear waters of the Caribbean Sea, the vibrant greenery and welcoming marina of Saba Rock comes into view—a beacon for yacht enthusiasts seeking a unique island experience.
This pint-sized island resort is celebrated for its vibrant outdoor dining scene, where refreshing tropical cocktails and gourmet seafood lunches are served in a relaxed, barefoot-chic setting. The energetic yet laid-back vibe invites you to unwind as you watch yachts from around the world dock for the day. Swings and hammocks along the shore provide idyllic spots for soaking up the sun.
The touch tank showcases fascinating relics for history buffs, including coral-covered anchors from a 19th-century shipwreck. The on-site boutique offers island treasures and souvenirs for those looking to commemorate their trip. As the day winds down, the stunning sunset casts golden and rose hues across the water, making Saba Rock an unforgettable evening retreat.
Day 5: Saba Rock – Anegada
Anegada is a coral island and the northernmost island of the BVI. Unlike its volcanic neighbors, Anegada stands out with its flat, low-lying landscape and highest point, reaching only 28 feet (8.5 meters) above sea level. The magnificent Horseshoe Reef encircles the island, one of the largest coral reefs in the world, and offers prime snorkeling and swimming spots.
Visitors are greeted by pristine white sand beaches and inviting beach shacks where fresh-caught seafood and tropical drinks take center stage. The island is known for its expansive salt ponds, which were once home to thousands of flamingos that were harvested during the 19th and 20th centuries. The vibrant pink flocks have returned and are flourishing thanks to conservation efforts. Additionally, Anegada is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting endangered rock iguanas and several species of nesting sea turtles.
Day 6: Anegada to Jost Van Dyke
Set sail from Anegada and make your way to the lively shores of Jost Van Dyke, an island that perfectly balances celebration and serenity. Known for its charming anchorages and lush, forested hills, this small island offers an unforgettable experience for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Upon arrival, dip in the crystal-clear waters or lounge on the soft sands of White Bay, a favorite spot for yachters looking to unwind. Stop by the iconic Soggy Dollar Bar for a refreshing Painkiller cocktail, a local favorite that captures the island’s tropical spirit.
For those who crave a more active day, explore the island’s scenic trails or snorkel along the turquoise shorelines teeming with marine life. The welcoming locals and laid-back vibe make Jost Van Dyke an essential part of any BVI sailing itinerary.
Day 7: Jost Van Dyke to Peter Island
Next, head from Jost Van Dyke to Peter Island, a stunning private oasis located just 4 kilometers from Tortola. Peter Island is the largest private island in the British Virgin Islands, known for its serene beauty and exclusivity. With most of the island remaining undeveloped, it boasts lush nature trails, unique flora, and pristine beaches like Deadman’s Bay Beach, where you can unwind on soft sands or enjoy water activities like snorkeling and diving.
As you explore the calm bays and scenic coastline, watch for the sea turtles that frequent the surrounding waters. Whether you prefer an afternoon hike or a relaxing swim, Peter Island offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
In the evening, enjoy a private dinner on the deck or dine at the exclusive beachfront restaurant as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the sky with hues of gold and crimson—a spectacular end to your crewed yacht charter before returning to Nanny Cay the next day.
Day 8: Peter Island to Nanny Cay
End your journey by sailing from Peter Island to Nanny Cay, the bustling marina resort between Road Town and the West End of Tortola. Covering this final leg offers a scenic route through the iconic Sir Francis Drake Channel, with views of the lush islands and brilliant blue waters.
Whether you unwind on the sugar-soft beaches, enjoy a refreshing coffee at the marina café, or indulge in some last-minute souvenir shopping, Nanny Cay provides everything you need before heading home.
Packing for British Virgin Islands Cruising
When setting sail on a fully crewed yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands, packing the right essentials can enhance your experience both on and off the water. Here’s what you’ll want to bring for a comfortable and memorable sailing trip:
- Reef-Safe Sunscreen: Use it to protect your skin while preserving the delicate marine life around vibrant coral reefs like Cistern Point and Norman Island. Although many crewed charter yachts now include Reef Safe Sunscreen on the yachts, it is still recommended to have some for before and after your charter trip.
- Water Toys and Accessories: While most crewed yachts come fully stocked with equipment like snorkeling gear, paddleboards, and kayaks, bringing personal items like a waterproof phone case or underwater camera can capture your adventures.
- Comfortable Footwear: Pack water-friendly sandals or shoes for going on shore for activities or spots like The Baths and White Bay. You’ll also want lightweight shoes for visiting nearby towns, beach bars, artisan markets, and scenic hiking trails.
- Light Layers and Swimwear: The BVI enjoys warm, tropical weather, but having a light cover-up or breezy outfit is perfect for evening dinners onboard or at places like Cooper Island Beach Club.
- Dry Bags and Sunglass Keepers: Keep valuables safe and dry during water excursions and dinghy rides to secluded stretches of sandy beaches. It is also recommended to bring soft luggage that can fold or collapse vs. hard shell roller luggage, which takes up more space.
Final Thoughts and Travel Tips
A fully crewed yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands is the ultimate way to experience this tropical paradise, blending luxury, adventure, and freedom. Planning ahead is important to make the most of your sailing trip—especially if you’re considering peak sailing weeks, such as the BVI Spring Sailing Regatta, or holiday seasons like Christmas and New Year’s. These dates fill up quickly, so booking early ensures you secure your preferred yacht and charter itinerary.
For smooth sailing, your crew will have a detailed BVI sailing map to guide you through stunning outer harbors and popular anchorages like Gorda Sound and Norman Island. However, if you have specific destinations in mind—like the iconic Sandy Spit or Prickly Pear Island—be sure to share your preferences with your captain to customize your journey.
Ready to make your dream vacation a reality? WLMS Yacht Charters offers exceptional service, luxury yachts, and expert crews to help you experience the best of the BVI. Explore our yacht charters in the BVI and set sail on an unforgettable journey through the beautiful British Virgin Islands!
