With so many stunning islands in the Caribbean, it’s almost impossible to choose just one—but sailing around the British Virgin Islands lets you soak up the full island-hopping experience in one trip.
I’ve had the chance to explore the BVI two ways: first with The Yacht Week, where I island-hopped with friends and danced under the stars, and then again on a 58’ crewed catamaran with The Moorings—four moms, four kids, and an unforgettable week at sea.
From sun-soaked white-sand beaches and laid-back beach bars (Painkiller cocktail in hand, of course) to incredible snorkel stops, each day was pure bliss.
So ready to get sailing? Here are my picks for the top sailing destinations in the British Virgin Islands.
The Ultimate Guide to Sailing the British Virgin Islands
Here are my tips and itinerary for a week full of adventure, turquoise waters, white-sand beaches sailing the British Virgin Islands!
Read More!
The Ultimate Caribbean Travel Guide
The Caribbean is what tropical dreams are made of! The region is made up of the Caribbean Sea and 30 island territories but thousands more islets and reefs.
Read More!
Tortola
Tortola is the largest and most populated of the British Virgin Islands. It’s where you will most likely board any ship that you’re sailing on.
If you have some time to spend here before embarking on your boat, be sure to check out the different beaches! Cane Garden Beach, Elizabeth Beach, and Long Bay Beach West are perfect for a relaxing day on the white sand. You can also walk around Road Town for a little shopping or for a quick bite.
If you’re into historical sights, check out Fort Burt. Fort Burt was built by the Dutch in the early 17th century to safeguard Road Harbour.
Jost Van Dyke
Jost Van Dyke checks off all your tropical boxes. With sugar mill ruins, a natural sea-formed jacuzzi, and dolphins and whales swimming in the sea, it’s the perfect place to start your route.
With fewer than 300 inhabitants, this small island packs a big punch. It’s most famous for its food with things like barbeques, West Indian roti, and plenty of grilled fish.
Be sure to check out the famous Soggy Dollar Bar and order an original painkiller cocktail (it’s been around since the 70s)!
Cane Garden Bay
Located on the island of Tortola, Cane Garden Bay is the best spot for water sports. Kayaking, snorkeling, renting a boat, you name it. When that sun goes down, the bay turns up.
You’ll find endless happy hours and live music. Just be sure to stop by Myett’s to enjoy a mahi-mahi burger and tropical punch while you enjoy the live music.
Scrub Island
Just a short sail from Tortola, Scrub Island is a dreamy private island in the BVI known for its crystal-clear waters, white-sand beaches, and luxe resort vibes. We spent the day soaking it all in at Scrub Island Resort.
There’s incredible snorkeling right off the resort’s beach—so if that’s on your list, definitely bring your gear! After a swim, spend the rest of the day lounging by the pool with an Aperol Spritz in hand.
There is also a spa and gym… but let’s be real, we never made it past the bar.
Anegada
Anegada is meant for relaxing and exploring all that nature has to offer. With the only coral island in the volcanic chain of the Virgin Islands, along with turpentine trees, sea lavender, and wild orchids, this destination stands out from all the other stops on your journey.
Snorkeling will have you face to face with bonefish, stingrays, parrotfish, and more. However, if you’re looking for something more upbeat, give windsurfing a go.
Either way, the secluded sandy beaches and bright blue waters will have you relaxed in no time.
Virgin Gorda
BVI’s third largest island received its name from Christopher Columbus who thought the island resembled a reclining woman (or “Fat Virgin.”). If you enjoy swimming, The Baths are a must.
A collection of boulders created by volcanic eruptions formed multiple little coves that you can swim in.
If you’d rather stay on land, hiking to Gorda Peak offers a panoramic view of the other islands. There are also Spanish ruins at Little Fort National Park that are worth exploring or head to Bitter End Yacht Club to lounge by the pool or grab a bite to eat.
Cooper Island
Cooper Island is a small, privately-owned island in the BVI that’s completely off the grid—powered by solar and committed to sustainable practices.
It’s a favourite stop for boaters thanks to its calm mooring field, but even if you’re just visiting for the day (like we did), it’s well worth the trip.
We spent the afternoon at Cooper Island Beach Club, and let me tell you—it has everything. A cute little coffee shop, a boutique, a brewery, and a beach bar that basically screams “vacation mode.”
Grab a cocktail from the main restaurant and head to the ocean-side tables, where you can sip, snack, and soak it all in with your feet in the water.
(Pro tip: skip the Rum Bar unless you’re cool dropping $30 on a Painkiller—yikes!)
Norman Island
Norman Island, one of the islands reputed to be the inspiration for the pirate novel Treasure Island, has a documented history of pirate booty being stowed on the island. We’re talking pirate gold dating back to 1750. It’s rumored that there is more pirate gold to be found.
Maybe you’ll be the one to find it.
The island has many caves, natural pools, and wrecks that you can scuba dive or snorkel. You will see plenty of sea life in the crystal clear waters. Once you’ve tired yourself out in the water, head to Willy T, a floating bar on a 30-meter schooner.
Spanish Town
Spanish Town, located on southern Virgin Gorda, is the second largest town on the British Virgin Islands. It’s the ideal spot to end a week of sailing the sea.
If you want to soak in the ocean one more time, stop by Devil’s Bay. This horseshoe-shaped bay is said to be the most beautiful in Virgin Gorda.
If you’re sunburnt and want to take it easy, you will find numerous shopping possibilities and plenty of bars and restaurants with entertainment.
The British Virgin Islands are the perfect place to sail if you just want to kick back and relax, search for sea turtles, snorkel the sea, and sprawl out on white sand beaches!
I am looking for a 7 day sailing for solo traveller in the BVI’s in The beginning of October 2019.
Hi Kimberley! That sounds so fun. It looks like if you google search “Sailing British Virgin Island Tours” you’ll find quite a few options! Having not done any of those tours, I can’t personally recommend them but hopefully that helps!
amazingggggggg