🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands

Nature's Little Secrets - Sailing Capital of the Caribbean

Capital

Road Town (Tortola)

Population

31,000

Language

English

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Best Time

Dec - May

Flight Time (US)

3-4 hours

Flight Time (Toronto)

4-5 hours

Flight Time (London)

9-10 hours

Flight Time (Paris)

9-10 hours

Discover the British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) is an archipelago of over 60 pristine islands and cays in the Caribbean, known as the sailing capital of the world. With calm turquoise waters, steady trade winds, and hundreds of protected anchorages, the BVI offers the ultimate sailing experience. The four main islands—Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada—each have their own distinct character and charm.

Beyond world-class sailing, the BVI features stunning white-sand beaches, crystal-clear snorkeling spots, vibrant beach bars, and a laid-back island atmosphere. From the dramatic granite boulders of The Baths to the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar, the British Virgin Islands deliver an authentic Caribbean escape with British hospitality and minimal development.

Award-Winning Excellence

2025 World Travel Awards

The British Virgin Islands won 2 World Travel Awards in 2025, recognizing excellence in luxury accommodations and tourism services across this pristine sailing paradise.

2
Total Awards Won
60+
Islands & Cays
#1
Sailing Destination

Notable Award-Winning Properties & Services

  • Peter Island Resort & Spa - British Virgin Islands' Leading Resort 2025
  • Stoutt's Taxi and Tour Services - British Virgin Islands' Leading Tour Operator 2025

Top Attractions & Things to Do

  • The Baths (Virgin Gorda) - Iconic geological wonder with giant granite boulders creating dramatic grottos and pools
  • Sailing Adventures - Charter a yacht or catamaran to explore secluded coves, pristine beaches, and hidden anchorages
  • White Bay (Jost Van Dyke) - Stunning beach home to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, birthplace of the Painstopper cocktail
  • The Wreck of the RMS Rhone - World-class dive site featuring a 310-foot Royal Mail ship that sank in 1867
  • Anegada - Flat coral island with pristine beaches, lobster shacks, flamingos, and the third-largest barrier reef
  • Cane Garden Bay (Tortola) - Picture-perfect crescent beach with beach bars, live music, and water sports
  • The Caves at Norman Island - Snorkeling paradise with underwater caves allegedly inspiring "Treasure Island"
  • Foxy's Bar (Jost Van Dyke) - Legendary beach bar known for live music, Old Year's Night party, and island hospitality
  • Sage Mountain National Park - BVI's highest point with rainforest trails and panoramic views
  • Cooper Island Beach Club - Eco-resort and microbrewery on a private island accessible only by boat
  • Smuggler's Cove (Tortola) - Secluded beach perfect for snorkeling with sea turtles
  • Bitter End Yacht Club - Premier sailing resort on Virgin Gorda's North Sound

Island-Hopping Adventures

Tortola

The largest island and main hub with Road Town, Cane Garden Bay, and Sage Mountain. Base for yacht charters and ferry connections to all islands.

Virgin Gorda

Home to The Baths, luxury resorts, North Sound sailing, and the exclusive Bitter End Yacht Club. Second-largest island with upscale vibe.

Jost Van Dyke

Small island with legendary beach bars including Foxy's and Soggy Dollar Bar. White Bay and Great Harbour offer quintessential beach-bar culture.

Anegada

Flat coral atoll with endless beaches, world-class bonefishing, lobster restaurants, and the massive Horseshoe Reef. Remote and pristine.

Private Islands

Peter Island Resort, Cooper Island Beach Club, Guana Island, and Necker Island offer exclusive luxury experiences and pristine beaches.

Sailing Paradise

The BVI is consistently ranked the world's premier sailing destination. With steady 15-25 knot trade winds, line-of-sight navigation between islands, hundreds of protected anchorages, and short distances (most islands are 5-15 miles apart), it's perfect for both experienced sailors and beginners.

Charter bareboat or crewed yachts from Road Town or Nanny Cay. Popular routes include the "BVI Circuit" hitting Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and surrounding cays. Provisioning is easy, moorings are abundant, and every anchorage offers stunning beaches, snorkeling, and beach bars.

BVI Culture & Cuisine

BVI culture blends British colonial heritage with Caribbean warmth. English is the official language, driving is on the left, and the currency is the US dollar. The islands maintain a relaxed, unspoiled character with strict building codes preserving natural beauty.

Local cuisine features fresh seafood, particularly lobster, conch, and fish. Must-try dishes include roti, johnny cakes, fungi, and the famous Painkiller cocktail. Beach bars like Foxy's, Soggy Dollar, and Cooper Island Rum Bar are institutions. Don't miss fresh Anegada lobster and local rum punches.

Travel Tips

  • Entry Requirements: US citizens need valid passport. No visa required for stays under 30 days
  • Getting There: Fly to Terrance B. Lettsome Airport (EIS) on Beef Island via San Juan or St. Thomas. Ferry from St. Thomas also available
  • Getting Around: Ferries connect main islands. Taxis, rental cars (drive on left), and water taxis available. Sailing charters most popular
  • Currency: US Dollar (USD). Credit cards widely accepted. ATMs available on main islands
  • Best Time to Visit: December to May for perfect sailing conditions. Hurricane season June-November
  • Sailing Charters: Book well in advance (6-12 months) for peak season. Bareboat requires sailing certification
  • Island Hopping: Inter-island ferries run regularly between Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke
  • What to Pack: Reef-safe sunscreen, sailing gear, light clothing, water shoes, snorkel equipment
  • Customs: Strict boating regulations. Clear customs at designated ports. Moorings recommended over anchoring
  • Safety: Very safe destination. Standard precautions at night. Boaters should monitor weather carefully

British Virgin Islands Travel Deals

Exclusive sailing packages and resort offers for BVI vacations

Save 48%

Peter Island Resort & Spa

7 nights luxury • Private island • Spa access • Water sports included

$3,999 $7,699
Book on Expedia →
Save 42%

BVI Sailing Charter

7-day yacht charter • Captain included • Island hopping • Snorkel gear

$4,999 $8,599
Book on Expedia →
Save 40%

Island Hopper Package

5 nights • 3 islands • Ferry passes • Beach bar tours • The Baths visit

$1,799 $2,999
Book on Expedia →

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