The area

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) comprise more than sixty islands and islets northwest of St Maarten. Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda and Anegada are the main islands of this enchanting archipelago. Among sailors, the area is known as one of the finest sailing grounds in the world: short distances, steady trade winds, sailing by eyesight, and countless safe anchorages make this destination every sailor's dream.

Enjoy the comfort of Scrub Island Resort, a spa and marina where our base is located. Just after departure, you'll sail straight into paradise.

Island-hop between the smaller islands and discover abundant marine life while snorkelling. Kayak through one of the many bays, or anchor in a sheltered spot to watch a stunning sunset and go for a night swim. Visit the RMS Rhone Marine Park to snorkel over a shipwreck, or dine ashore to sample Caribbean specialities.

Relax at Benures Bay, Key Bay and Lee Bay, swim and snorkel in "The Indians" marine park, or sail to the Dog Islands. Explore the caves at The Baths on Virgin Gorda, which lead to the stunning Devil's Bay beach, or sail to Marina Cay to spot turtles and rays. Spend the night at Prickly Pear Island, or make the crossing to Anegada, the only coral island in the BVI, with its long pink sand beaches.

Highlights

The Baths rock formations on Virgin Gorda, fresh lobster at Loblolly Bay on Anegada, diving the famous 1867 RMS Rhone wreck, and a Painkiller cocktail at the beach bars on Jost Van Dyke.

Suggested route

Day 1: Arrival, Scrub Island
Day 2: Scrub Island to Norman Island
Day 3: Norman Island to The Baths, Gorda Sound
Day 4: Gorda Sound to The Dogs and Marina Cay
Day 5: Marina Cay to Monkey Point and Cane Garden Bay or Jost Van Dyke
Day 6: Cane Garden Bay or Jost Van Dyke to Green Cay, Peter Island
Day 7: Peter Island back to Scrub Island
Day 8: Departure from Scrub Island

Sailing conditions

This area suits less experienced sailors well, thanks to the short distances and calm but steady wind, mostly from the east/northeast. Swell from the north increases somewhat from December to March. Trade wind season runs November to June, with the best wind, the famous "Christmas Winds", in December and January. Hurricane season: June to October.