6 Best Things to do on a British Virgin Island Yacht Charter

Jan 17, 2024

If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable maritime adventure, you’ve set your course for the right destination. In this article, we have compiled a list of 6 unique activities that will help create an extraordinary BVI yacht charter experience.

Whether you are sailing with your partner, your family, or a large group of friends or colleagues, these activities can be incorporated into your Charter itinerary.

From wreck diving in the crystal-clear waters and sunset yoga on the beach to partying all night on a floating pirate bar, there is something to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

So, hoist the sails, and let’s explore the incredible experiences that await you on your yacht charter in this Caribbean gem.

6. Explore the Underwater World of one of BVI’s fantastic Shipwrecks

Seize the chance to explore the BVI’s underwater world, rich in marine life and maritime history. Scuba diving, one of the many shipwrecks scattered around the seabed, is perhaps one of the most thrilling activities you can do in the BVI.

From the legendary RMS Rhone to the haven of the WWII Warship – The Kodiak Queen, these underwater time capsules offer a unique glimpse into the past, where sunken vessels have become vibrant marine habitats.

Here is a list of 6 of the BVI’s best Shipwreck Dives

  1. RMS Rhone: This iconic shipwreck off Salt Island is one of the world’s premier dive sites. The RMS Rhone, a British mail steamer, sank in 1867 during a hurricane, creating a captivating underwater scene with intact structures and marine life.
  2. Chikuzen: Located off the coast of Virgin Gorda, the Chikuzen is a Japanese refrigerator ship that met its fate in 1981. Now a popular dive site, it offers a unique exploration of a large, well-preserved wreck surrounded by vibrant marine ecosystems.
  3. The Wreck of the Fearless: Found near Norman Island, the Fearless was a luxury yacht that sank in the 1920s. Its remnants provide an intriguing dive experience, with coral-encrusted parts and marine creatures making it their home.
  4. The Inganess Bay: Situated near Cooper Island, the Inganess Bay is a British Navy oil tanker that sank in 1945. Divers can explore its impressive length and witness how marine life has transformed this historical wreck into a thriving underwater habitat.
  5. The Kodiak Queen: This WWII Navy fuel barge, now an artificial reef near Virgin Gorda, was famously transformed into an art installation called “The BVI Art Reef.” It serves as a unique blend of history, art, and marine conservation.
  6. The Beata: Off the coast of Anegada lies the wreck of The Beata, a 19th-century steamer that met its demise in 1918. Divers can explore the scattered remains, including the ship’s boiler and artifacts, while enjoying the abundance of marine life in the area.

5. Share Unforgettable Moments around the Fire on the Beach

Cap off your BVI yacht charter with a touch of seaside magic—a bonfire on the beach under the Caribbean stars.

Enjoy the soft crackle of the flames, the gentle rhythm of the waves, and the warmth of the sand beneath your feet. It’s an intimate gathering where tales are spun.

Let out your inner child with toasted marshmallows, campfire songs, or ghost stories.

With the coastline as your backdrop, a beach bonfire transforms your yacht charter into a night of camaraderie and unforgettable moments.

So, gather your crew, embrace the warmth, and let the beach bonfire light up the final chapter of your Caribbean adventure.

Our Blog

DISCOVER THE LATEST IN YACHTING WITH US

We’re committed to staying on top of the latest trends in Virgin Islands yacht charters, from the launching of exciting new yachts to the best destinations and activities. Our blog serves as a resource to keep you informed and inspire new ideas for your adventures at sea.

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4. Discover the Island with a fun Treasure Hunt

Whether you’re chartering with family or a group of friends, a treasure hunt adds an extra dose of excitement to your yacht charter in the BVI.

Picture this: hidden clues, stunning landscapes, and the thrill of uncovering hidden treasures. It’s not just a game; it’s a unique way to explore the islands, turning your adventure into a quest full of surprises. So, gather your crew, set sail, and let the treasure hunt begin!

Tell your Yacht Charter Broker that you wish to have a treasure hunt so the crew has time to set it up for you.

Great Locations for a Treasure Hunt:

Tortola Island

Tortola is the largest island in the British Virgin Islands. It’s home to some of the best diving and snorkeling in the Caribbean- especially in Cane Garden Bay. Tortola Island also has many historical sites and points of interest. Don’t miss a visit to Smuggler’s Cove, a perfect shallow reef ideal for scuba beginners and untouched by civilization.

To taste Caribbean living from your BVI charter vacation, venture into Torrola’s Road Town. The freedom of your own private yacht lets you explore the colorful streets and enjoy laid-back evenings tasting rum-infused cocktails from the beach bars. A visit to the Callwood Rum Distillery is a must, as is a stroll around the Craft’s Alive Village for souvenir shopping

Peter Island

Named after the Dead Chest Island and the infamous pirate lore surrounding it, Deadman’s Bay is not only rich in history but also in scenic wonders. The bay provides a picturesque setting for leisurely strolls along the shoreline, where the soft sands meet the gentle waves of the Caribbean Sea.

Surrounded by lush greenery, the bay creates a serene atmosphere, inviting visitors to unwind and appreciate the untouched beauty of nature.

Whether you’re a sun seeker looking to bask in the warm glow or an explorer keen on discovering the underwater wonders through snorkeling, Deadman’s Bay offers a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.

Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda is the third largest island in the British Virgin Islands, with just over 4,000 people. It’s known for its beautiful white sands, the rock pools known as The Baths, and world-class luxury resorts and clubs for BVI yacht charters. There are also some great hiking trails on Virgin Gorda with sweeping views of the island’s coastline-making it an ideal destination for visitors with bareboat catamarans.

After soaking up the sunshine and saltwater activities in Virgin Gorda, consider visiting the Copper Mine National Park. These 19th-century abandoned ruins are found between Copper Mine Bay and Crooks Bay on the island’s southeastern point. The structures were built by Cornish miners and housed around 130 families before the mine was closed in 1862.

3. Find Balance with an Instructed Sunset Yoga Session on the Beach

If you seek relaxation and holistic well-being, the presence of a yoga instructor and onboard spas might just be what you have been craving.

Take the opportunity to enjoy an instructed yoga class on the beach as the sun begins its descent over the tranquil waters of the British Virgin Islands. Find balance and inner peace to the soothing sound of lapping waves, bathed in the warm colors of the sunset. This is not just a yoga session, but a moment to connect with the elements, rejuvenate your spirit, and savor the magic of this unique place.

In the highseason between December and April the sunsets move from the soutwest to the west-northwest. Here are 3 great locations to watch the sunset.

  • Smuggler’s Cove, Tortola Island
  • Long Bay Beach, Beef Island
  • White Bay, Jost Van Dyke

Types of Charter Yachts

We recommend either chartering a catamaran or a motor yacht for your crewed yacht charter vacation in the British Virgin Islands. Why? The water in the BVI is very shallow, which greatly limits accessibility for deep-drafted yachts.

“We have seen a growing demand for luxury motor yachts among high-end charter guests.”

Catamarans
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Motor Yachts
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Power Catamarans
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Luxury Yachts
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Charter Yachts with Scuba Diving Onboard
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Sailboats
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2. Enjoy A Romantic Dinner on a Deserted Island

The scene is set for a romantic dinner on the secluded beach of your own deserted island.

Picture the sun on the horizon, casting a warm glow on YOUR sandy shores, the sound of the gently lapping waves and a table set for two placed right where the shore kisses the sea.

Let your private chef craft you a culinary masterpiece to celebrate your love in the most romantic setting you could ever dream of.

Get cheesy, get loving surrounded by the beauty of the Caribbean, and enjoy the intimacy of your own private paradise.

Romantic sunset dinner on the beach. Table set for two with luxurious food, glasses of champagne and sea view.

There are endless beaches in the BVI that would be perfect for a secluded, romantic dinner, but if you want the feel of being truly alone on a deserted Island surrrounded by the sea, you might like Sandy Cay or Sandy Spit located off Jost Van Dyke Island.

Step ashore on the tiny desert Island. Sandy Spit is one of BVI’s tiny islets and a small piece of paradise. Drop anchor off the sandy beach and enjoy a brief walk and a swim on this stunning desert island.
Step ashore on the tiny desert Island. Sandy Spit is one of BVI’s tiny islets and a small piece of paradise. Drop anchor off the sandy beach and enjoy a brief walk and a swim on this stunning desert island.

1. Party all Night at the Legendary Willy-T floating Pirate Bar

THIS IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST!!

The Legendary Willy-T was named after the British-American physician, inventor, and architect William Thornton (1759-1828), who was born on the nearby Jost Van Dyke Island.

This fantastic floating pirate bar, built on a decommissioned tanker, is located on the crystal-clear waters in the BVI, where it has accommodated thirsty sailors since 1989!!

The original Willy Thornton ship was destroyed in 2017 by the hurricanes Irma and Maria and now lives on as a dive site off the Key Bay at Peter Island.

The new Willy-T was built in May 2018 and continues to host some of the Caribbean’s cheeriest of parties!

The Willy-T floating Pirate Bar, Norman Island, British Virgin Islands

The Willy-T serves lunch between 12 and 3 p.m. and dinner from 6 pm and onwards. Look out for the day’s special, or try the popular Anegada Conch Fritters or the Chicken Roti. The bar does not close until the party ends!! Try drinks like the Painkiller and Dark and Stormy.

We recommend these 10 BVI catamaran charters for 2024/2025:

Our senior charter broker, Yanna Pristas, has selected these 10 catamarans as a proposition of the first choice when choosing a crewed catamaran for a crewed catamaran charter in the BVI. Note that many of these are booked way ahead; inquiring early is essential.

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12 reviews
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DEEP BLUE

From $28,000/week
4 cabins
58 ft
Leopard
8 guests
Refit: 2023

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38 reviews

HEAVENLY

From $35,750/week
4 cabins
62 ft
Lagoon
8 guests
Built: 2016

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IPHARRA

From $68,000/week
5 cabins
102 ft
Sunreef Yachts
10 guests
Refit: 2017
50 Litres/Hr

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BUNDALONG

From $80,000/week
4 cabins
80 ft
Sunreef Yachts
8 guests
Refit: 2023

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10 reviews
Jacuzzi

RELENTLESS II 80

From $94,000/week
4 cabins
80 ft
Sunreef Yachts
8 guests
Built: 2022

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SOLAR WINDS

From $20,000/week
3 cabins
49 ft
Bali Catamarans
6 guests
Built: 2023

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ONE PLANET

From $82,000/week
4 cabins
77 ft
Sunreef Yachts
8 guests
Built: 2023

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9 reviews

MAVERICK

From $44,500/week
4 cabins
70 ft
Sunreef Yachts
9 guests
Refit: 2019
35 Litres/Hr

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TRU NORTH

From $49,500/week
4 cabins
67 ft
Fountaine Pajot
8 guests
Built: 2021

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18 reviews
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XANDROS

From $59,000/week
4 cabins
65 ft
Lagoon
8 guests
Built: 2021

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EASY BOOKING – TALK TO A CHARTER EXPERT

Who are We?

At DMA Yachting, we are proud to have a team of individuals who have real on-water experience. Many of our brokers have worked or lived on yachts themselves.

This firsthand experience allows us to truly understand life at sea in both the shoes of crew and guests and the details that make a yacht charter exceptional.

We closely inspect yachts and meet in person with captains and crew to ensure every element of the charter meets our high standards.

Our yearly participation in yacht shows such as the EMMYS and MEDYS Yacht Shows in the Mediterranean, and the BVI Yacht Show and USVI Yacht Show in the Caribbean helps us stay on top of industry trends and client needs.

We are here to guide you through every step of your charter, from the moment you reach out to the moment your yacht charter ends.

Contact us

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DT

Dana Terrell

Jun 4, 2024

This was a trip of a lifetime! We booked with Nadja at DMA yachting and she made sure the entire process was easy and no problems. Our charter was with Zuri3 and our Captain Andre and First Mate Jana made our trip amazing! They made sure everything was taken care and treated us like royalty. This is not just a vacation this is an experience of a lifetime.

C

Customer

Jun 3, 2024

Best Trip ever!!! This was our first experience chartering a Yacht. Nadja was excellent at finding the right boat and crew for us. She was always in touch making sure all my questions were answered and even reached out during the trip to make sure all was well. Perfect family vacation. So fun. Will use them again for sure.

CC

Courtney Costales

Jun 2, 2024

Amazing Trip!!!!!!

Excellent communication throughout the process. Amazing boat and crew! Soooo much fun! We will definitely do this trip again!

What Our Clients Say

Our clients speak of unparalleled service, exquisite yachts, and a seamless booking process, highlighting the excellence of their charter experiences in the British Virgin Islands.

Our Team

Booking a crewed yacht charter in the British Virgin Islands with us is easy—just contact one of our Expert Charter Brokers and tell us what you want!

Marcelle Hailwax
Marcelle Hailwax

Charter Broker

Alex Hailwax
Alex Hailwax

Charter Broker

Andrea Pristas
Andrea Pristas

Charter Broker

Chris de Kock
Chris de Kock

Charter Broker

Louis Lamprell
Louis Lamprell

Charter Broker

Yanna Pristas
Yanna Pristas

Senior Charter Broker, Associate CYBA Member

Daniel Asmus
Daniel Asmus

Owner, Charter Broker, Active CYBA Member, IYBA, ECPY

Mo Pristas
Mo Pristas

CharterGuru

William Mc Nally
William Mc Nally

Charter Broker

Sarah Klische
Sarah Klische

Charter Broker

Martina Asmus
Martina Asmus

Owner, Charter Broker, Active CYBA Member, IYBA, ECPY