Yacht sailing holidays & skippered tours in the BVI

The best places to visit on your next BVI cruise on a catamaran:

The British Virgin Islands in the Caribbean, form an archipelago of 50 islands of which only 16 are inhabited. It is an ideal destination to explore on a catamaran cruise to access still deserted and pristine paradises. There is no shortage of underwater life with dive spots spread throughout the archipelago. If you dream of crystal clear waters, white sandy beaches and a 'cool' atmosphere, the Virgin Islands are the next destination on your list.

Anegada: the island of natural wonders

The volcanic archipelago of the British Virgin Islands is home to some of the most beautiful beaches, each with its own unique charm and qualities. Virgin Gorda is particularly honoured with stunning beaches including the Baths, Prickly Pear, Spring Bay, and Savannah Bay - some describe Virgin Gorda's beaches as the most beautiful and pristine in the world. Other breathtaking beaches on the islands include Josiah's Bay, Smuggler's Cove and Long Bay Beach on Tortola, Cow Wreck Beach and Loblolly Beach on Anegada, and White Bay on Jost Van Dyke. Throughout the waters of the BVI, the waters are crystal clear and the coastlines are dotted with sea caves and unique wildlife viewing opportunities.

Tortola: the heart of the archipelago

The capital island of the BVI, Tortola, is also the yachting capital of the Caribbean. Its white sandy beaches, lush landscapes and charming harbours are features that represent the BVI to the world. Tortola has a variety of water sports and fishing facilities, and is also the hub of BVI museums and cultural heritage, including the 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works Museum, Fort Burt, and the J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens.

Anegada: the island of natural wonders

Anegada Island has to be earned: 300 shipwrecks are held in the sharpened talons of its reefs. Anegada is the only coral island in the archipelago's volcanic chain - the coral reefs that surround the island, as well as the wild beaches and natural springs are the special features that characterise this island. For travellers looking to discover and experience the local wildlife of the BVI, Anegada is a must-visit. From turpentines and rare orchids to rock iguanas, whitefish and parrot fish, the island is full of wildlife experiences. It is said to have the tastiest lobsters in the world!

Virgin Gorda: beautiful beaches and a distinctive culture

More mountainous, Virgin Gorda Island has the archipelago's greatest curiosity: The Baths. A chaos of large granite boulders forming a labyrinth of caves, natural pools and intimate coves. Virgin Gorda Island attracts visitors from around the world for its special anchorages and beautiful coves. Protected national parks around the islands ensure the preservation of its great natural beauty. Many of the BVI's most popular beaches are located on Virgin Gorda and Gorda Peak, the island's highest peak, offers stunning panoramic views. The island has a unique blend of culture, with influences from African, Indian, and Spanish origins.

Everything you need to know about your next BVI cruise on a catamaran:

• The climate in the BVI is pleasant all year round and the best time to go catamaran sailing in the BVI is between October and March, during the dry season. The weather is particularly pleasant with warm temperatures, little chance of rain and moderate winds every day. It is quite possible to travel there until July, although the weather may be wetter. As with other destinations in the Caribbean, we do not recommend going in August and September, which are prone to hurricanes in the region.
• It's entirely possible to make this dream trip come true for a budget of €1600 all-inclusive. All you need to do is find the right cruising opportunity on Sailsquare and book your flight tickets in advance. The sailboat rental with skipper in the Virgin Islands is achieved from 940€ per person per week (count 1500€ on a luxury catamaran with hostess). To this budget, it is necessary to add between 400 and 800€ for the flight to Saint Martin or Tortola and then a contribution to the ship's till (food, fuel, marina fees) of 150-200€ per person. So we are far from a destination reserved only for the wealthy. This paradise is becoming more and more accessible while keeping its authenticity and tourist levels always low.
• There are several opportunities to reach the British Virgin Islands. It all depends on the port of departure of your next catamaran cruise. The first solution is to arrive at Saint Martin airport (SXM - 9h flight) which is well served with direct low-cost flights from Paris from 400€ all year round. Several airlines operate this route. You will then embark on the island of St Martin and sail to the British Virgin Islands. This is a unique opportunity to make a magnificent round trip under the starry Caribbean sky.
  The second solution, which mainly concerns those who have hired a full catamaran with skipper in the British Virgin Islands, is to land at Tortola airport (EIS) after making a stopover in Saint Martin (SXM).