June 17, 2024

My BVI Charter 〉 BVI Charter Itineraries 〉 7-Day Yacht Charter Itinerary in the British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands (or BVI) are a collection of islands in the Caribbean, just East of Puerto Rico. They have been dubbed the “playground for the rich and famous” and are undoubtedly the perfect setting for relaxing and luxurious yacht charter holidays.

Comprising over 50 stunning islands, most visitors will be familiar with the main locations: Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke.

This itinerary guide will help you plan your trip to get the most out of your experience and ensure you don’t miss anything.

Our proposed route begins from Norman Island and concludes in one of the smallest and most interesting spots, Jost Van Dyke.

Arriving in the British Virgin Islands and embarkation at Norman Island

Most BVI catamaran charters start from Nanny Cay Marina on Tortola, the largest and most populated island in the British Virgin Islands. This is easy if you fly directly to the Terrence B. Lettsome Airport (EIS), located on Beef Island, which is connected to Tortola.

For those who fly into Cyril E. King Airport, St Thomas (STT) in the USVI, these are your options: Some Catamarans offer pickups in St Thomas, USVI, if they have the permits required to charter in USVI territory (not all have). Alternatively, we can easily organize a transfer by water taxi from St Thomas to your charter in the BVI. It takes about 30-40 minutes, including customs clearance on arrival.

NYC to BVI Travel Comparison

1. Option 1: Fly Direct to Beef Island, BVI
   • Travel Time: ~7-8 hours (includes a layover in Miami)
   • Cost: $460–$500 per person (round-trip flight)

2. Option 2: Fly to St. Thomas + Water Taxi to BVI

1. • Travel Time: ~5-6 hours (direct flight + 40-min water taxi)
   • Cost: $190–$250 per person (flight) + $1000–$1400 (water taxi round-trip per group)

For a group of 8, flying to St. Thomas and taking a water taxi is cheaper, saving you up to $1,480 depending on exact flight and water taxi prices.

Day 1 – Norman Island to Peter Island

As you sail from Norman Island, you’ll first notice the serene blue-green water. It’s like a dreamy swimming pool that goes on forever.

While on Peter Island, enjoy time lounging under the palm trees, or if you prefer something more active, snorkeling around the reefs.

> Sailing Normal Island – important information: 

• Multiple anchorage options are available
• The area around the coves can be crowded with day trippers

> Sailing Norman Island – don’t miss:

• Dining at Pirate’s Bight Restaurant.
• Hiking trails for those who wish to venture ashore – try Spyglass Hill for beautiful vistas.
• Sunset drink at Willy T (William Thornton).

> Sailing Peter Island – important information: 

• Usually, a more quiet anchorage than nearby options
• The area was hit hard by Hurricane Irma and is still recovering 

> Sailing Peter Island – don’t miss:

• Exploring old shipwrecks on the south side 
• Swimming among green sea turtles at Little Harbour
• Making the most of your water toys 
• Diving at Dead Chest

Day 2 – Peter Island to Spanish Town

Also known as Valley, Spanish Town is your chance to explore the second-largest town on the BVI and catch up on some shopping.

While you’re there, make sure to visit The Baths, a natural rock formation carved out by the ocean and one of the most popular spots for yacht charters.

> Sailing Spanish Town – important information: 

• Virgin Gorda is the third largest island 
• Major tourist destination, so crowds are to be expected

> Sailing Spanish Town – don’t miss:

• Dining at Coco Maya
• Visiting The Baths 
• Explore the abandoned Cornish Copper Mine
• Snorkeling at Wreck of the Rhone 

Day 3 – Spanish Town to Mountain Point

From Spanish Town, we make our way north to Mountain Point, between Saddle and Long Bay.

This lesser-known spot is home to the Kodiak Queen, a sunken WWII warship that has recently been transformed into an artificial reef.

A perfect spot for recreational diving and educational activities for children and adults.

> Sailing Mountain Point – important information: 

• Long Bay offers a secluded spot with limited to no facilities perfect for relaxing

> Sailing Mountain Point – don’t miss:

• Snorkel the BVI Art Reef, aka Kodiak Queen

Day 4 – Mountain Point to North Sound

From Mountain Point, you will make your way to North Sound, a favorite spot for yacht charters with stunning waters and some of the most luxurious resorts and privately owned islands.

The world-famous Bitter End Yacht Club is a must for watersport activities, as is a visit to Saba Rock, the iconic acre and a half islet, perfect for an evening cocktail. 

> Sailing North Sound – important information: 

• Lots of protected anchorages to choose from 
• Great for adrenaline seekers and water sport enthusiasts 

> Sailing North Sound – don’t miss:

• Snorkeling at Prickly Pear Island and Moskito Island
• Adventure watersports at Bitter End Yacht Club
• Fancy dining at Biras Creek 

Day 5 – North Sound to Anegada

From North Sound, it’s time to head even further north. Anegada is the third largest barrier reef in the world and host to the famous BVI full moon parties.

The name Anegada was given by the Spanish and translates to “Downed Land” for its flat terrain.

The highest point is only 28 feet above sea level. Its dreamy, powdery beaches go on for miles, while the coral landscape makes this a perfect spot for underwater explorations.

The island is known for its fresh seafood, especially lobster, which you’ll find on offer on every menu.

> Sailing Anegada – important information: 

• It is best to book restaurants ahead, especially for lobster! 

> Sailing Anegada – don’t miss:

• Try the Cow Wreck Beach Bar take on the famous Painkiller
• Snorkeling around Horseshoe Reef

Day 6 – Anegada to Jost Van Dyke

A beautiful day of sailing is ahead of you on Day 6 as you make your way south towards Jost Van Dyke. The island is famous for the Soggy Dollar, a laid-back beach bar that you will have to swim to reach, hence the name.

Its specially blended dark rum, pineapple, orange juice, and cream of coconut cocktail has become synonymous with Caribbean holidays since its creation in the 1970s.

> Sailing Jost Van Dyke – important information: 

• White Bay can be a crowded spot. 

> Sailing Jost Van Dyke  – don’t miss:

• Swimming at Sandy Spit and Diamond Cay.  
• Grabbing the signature Painkiller at Soggy Dollar 

Day 7 – Jost Van Dyke to agreed disembarkation point

The last day of your journey will be a comfortable sail back to Tortola, where you will disembark, prepare to catch your flight or stay and linger on the island.

The route can differ based on weather and preference and will be agreed upon with your captain. If you prefer to extend your stay in the BVI, we can help coordinate a transfer to another resort or villa.