6 Best Things to Do on a British Virgin Islands Yacht Charter

The British Virgin Islands aren’t just another tropical paradise—they’re packed with wild adventures you won’t find anywhere else. Dive epic wrecks like the Kraken and RMS Rhone, grab a drink at legendary beach bars like Soggy Dollar and Foxy’s, watch Aragorn’s fireballs light up the beach, and party the night away on the floating pirate ship, the Willy T.

6. Drink Painkillers at Jost Van Dyke’s Legendary Beach Bars

Jost van dyke is famous for two things: Stunning nature and awesome beach bars! It is the perfect place to end your British Virgin Island yacht charter vacation! But before we start on the beach bars, whichof there are enough to keep you busy for days, we want to recommend a couple of things to do on the island.

Soggy Dollar Bar

The Soggy Dollar Bar, located right on the beach in White Bay on Jost Van Dyke, has been a Caribbean icon since the 1970s. Its name comes from the unique way patrons arrive—anchoring offshore and swimming to the bar, soaking their dollars in the process. This laid-back spot is famed for inventing the Painkiller cocktail (though several bars around the BVI claim that), a delicious mix of dark rum, cream of coconut, pineapple, and orange juice topped with freshly grated nutmeg.

Foxy’s

Foxy’s Bar, located in Great Harbour, the bay just east of White Bay on Jost Van Dyke, is another legendary beach bar that has been a cornerstone of the British Virgin Islands’ yachting tourism since its establishment in 1968 by Philicianno “Foxy” Callwood.

Known for its laid-back atmosphere, live music, and the charismatic presence of Foxy himself, the bar has become a must-visit destination for sailors and tourists alike. One of its most renowned events is the annual Old Year’s Night celebration, a New Year’s Eve party that attracts visitors from around the globe, featuring live bands, dancing on the beach, and a festive ambiance that embodies the spirit of the Caribbean.

5. Explore the Underwater World of the BVI – Shipwrecks, Plane Wrecks, and Pirate Caves

One of the many reasons people are drawn to the British Virgin Islands is its crystal-clear waters and thriving coral reefs, offering world-class conditions for snorkeling and diving. The region is also home to an array of fascinating wreck dives, such as the legendary RMS Rhone and the WWII Warship – The Kodiak Queen, with dive sites accessible to both beginners and experienced divers.

We charter many yachts fully equipped with scuba gear, tanks, compressors, and certified dive instructors on board. Whether you’re a seasoned diver or a beginner looking to learn during your trip, we’ll help you find the perfect yacht to match your needs and skill level.

Many of our favorite dive charter yachts, such as Ohana, Aeolus, Liquid Zen, and Kings Ransom, include complimentary dives as part of the charter price, making it easy to explore the underwater wonders of the BVI while enjoying the comforts of your private yacht.

We Love These BVI Catamaran Dive Charters

4. Go on a Treasure Hunt on the Actual Treasure Island

The pirate theme has long been a favorite in yacht charters—who wouldn’t want to play pirate for a day, sailing through islands once teeming with real-life swashbucklers?

Many yachts happily incorporate tailor-made treasure hunts and pirate parties into their charters, and it’s especially popular with families. These adventures combine local pirate history with hands-on fun: hiking through jungles, diving for treasure, digging in the sand, and—of course—drinking rum.

And what better place to kick off a treasure hunt than the real Treasure Island? On day one, you’ll set sail from Nanny Cay Marina on Tortola and head south to Norman Island, just a short one-hour cruise.

This privately owned island is believed to have inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, and the pirate legends here are more than just stories. Norman Island was once a real stash spot for stolen treasure, and nearby caves still whisper tales of loot that was found there.

Whether you’re hunting for gold, exploring caves, or just soaking in the history, a pirate adventure in the BVI is as close as you’ll get to living the legend.

3. Get Pampered on a Wellness Focused Yacht Charter

We are seeing more clients looking for wellness or yoga-focused charters, whether to reset from a demanding routine or simply enjoy a more mindful, rejuvenating vacation. A wellness charter can include daily yoga sessions on deck, sunset yoga on the beach, therapeutic massages, meditation, and spa treatments tailored to your needs.

We have yachts like Liquid Sky that offer dedicated wellness packages, as seen in the picture below, including customized plans with yoga, treatments, and curated nutrition for a comprehensive experience.

We also love Catamaran Some Kind of Wonderful, who offer yoga-focused charters led by experienced instructor Benita Marshall.

If your yacht doesn’t come with onboard wellness staff, stopping by Leverick Bay in North Sound on your BVI yacht charter, allow professionals from Leverick Resort & Spa to come aboard for facials, massages, and other treatments.

We Love These Two Catamaran Charters offering a Wellness and Yoga Package

2. Party Like a Pirate Onboard the Legendary Willy-T Floating Pirate Bar

1. Celebrate a Holiday on a Yacht in the British Virgin Island

The holidays are a perfect time to escape the ordinary, and celebrating on a yacht in the British Virgin Islands offers a unique and unforgettable experience. We are experiencing more and more clients choosing Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year charters to enjoy these special occasions in tropical paradise.

Yacht crews take great pride in creating themed charters that feel truly special. Before your trip, they’ll work with you to understand your family traditions, favorite meals, and desired activities to ensure your holiday feels both familiar and extraordinary.

Thanksgiving Charters

Thanksgiving charters are especially popular with families and groups of friends looking to spend quality time together. Crews prepare a festive spread with all the traditional favorites—turkey, stuffing, and pies—complete with beautiful decorations to set the scene. Sharing a Thanksgiving feast with loved ones while anchored in a quiet bay or lounging on a white sand beach makes for an intimate and meaningful celebration.

Christmas Charters

Christmas on a yacht offers something completely unique. Spend your days exploring hidden coves, snorkeling vibrant reefs, or simply soaking up the sun, while your evenings bring festive meals and holiday cheer. Yachts are decked out in Christmas decorations, and many crews wrap thoughtful gifts for guests as keepsakes. Special holiday meals—featuring traditional favorites with a gourmet twist—make every dinner a celebration, and it’s not unusual for Santa to make a surprise stop at sea.

BVI New Years Charters

New Year’s Eve in the BVI is a celebration like no other. For those seeking excitement, anchor near the islands’ most legendary parties:

• Trellis Bay hosts a family-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration with Aragorn’s fireballs, Moko Jumbies, live drumming, and beachside festivities.
• Foxy’s Old Year’s Night on Jost Van Dyke is world-renowned, offering live music, Caribbean BBQ, and nonstop dancing, with options for a lively beachside celebration or a more upscale experience.
• Anegada’s beach parties at venues like Wonky Dog, Anegada Beach Club, and Lobster Trap feature gourmet multi-course dinners and live DJs right on the sand.

Prefer something quieter? Opt for a private New Year’s Eve celebration in a secluded cove, where you can toast to the year ahead under a sky full of stars and wake up to the first sunrise of the year in breathtaking surroundings.

Types of BVI Yachts

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