Short hops, sheltered seas and the most famous anchorages in the Caribbean — the BVI is where sailors fall in love with these islands.
If there is a perfect place to sail a catamaran, it may be the British Virgin Islands. Forty-odd islands sit clustered within sight of one another around the sheltered Sir Francis Drake Channel, so the sailing is short, calm and gloriously easy — rarely more than an hour or two between anchorages. The trade winds are steady, the water is warm and clear, and the islands are dotted with legendary beach bars and protected bays. It’s the Caribbean’s most beloved cruising ground for good reason: forgiving enough for first-timers and families, yet beautiful enough that seasoned sailors return year after year.
Six of our crewed catamarans sail the British Virgin Islands, ready to show you the islands at their own unhurried pace.
External resources: BVI Tourist Board
A crewed catamaran is the ideal way to experience the BVI. The short, sheltered hops mean you spend your days swimming and exploring rather than on long passages, and a catamaran’s stability and shallow draft make light work of the islands’ best bays. Your crew handles the sailing and the local knowledge — the quiet anchorage, the best snorkel spot, the beach bar of the night — while you relax into island time.
Calm waters, short distances and legendary anchorages make the BVI as rewarding for first-time charterers as for seasoned sailors.
The British Virgin Islands offer some of the most rewarding sailing anywhere — dozens of islands within easy reach, sheltered trade-wind passages, and anchorages that range from legendary beach bars to deserted coral sands.
Swim and clamber through a maze of giant granite boulders and sea-lit grottoes — the BVI’s unmissable natural wonder.
Anchor off White Bay for the Soggy Dollar Bar, then Great Harbour for the legendary Foxy’s — Caribbean beach-bar culture at its best.
Sail out to the flat coral island of Anegada for fresh lobster grilled on the beach and miles of deserted sand.
A vast protected anchorage ringed by islands, with chic clubs and calm water for watersports.
Drop anchor at Norman Island’s caves and the Indians’ coral pinnacles, some of the BVI’s finest snorkelling.
A classic, relaxed loop of the British Virgin Islands — short hops and legendary anchorages, easily tailored by your crew.
Welcome aboard in Road Town, then a short sail to Norman Island — said to have inspired Treasure Island. Snorkel The Indians and an evening at the Willy T floating bar.
A morning hop to Peter Island’s empty White Bay. Long beach walk, lunch at anchor, afternoon at leisure.
Snorkel the RMS Rhone wreck off Salt Island in the morning — one of the Caribbean’s finest dives. Anchor at Cooper Island for sundowners at the Beach Club.
Sail to The Baths — a maze of giant granite boulders forming hidden pools and tunnels. Half-day exploring ashore, evening anchorage at Spanish Town.
The longest sail of the trip, north to the coral island of Anegada. Lobster dinner on the beach at Loblolly Bay.
A downwind run south to Jost Van Dyke. Anchor at White Bay and walk to the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar.
A short morning sail back to Tortola with one last swim at Sandy Spit. Disembark in the afternoon.
The BVI offers near-perfect sailing conditions: dozens of islands clustered close together in sheltered waters, steady trade winds, warm clear seas and short hops between famous anchorages. It’s forgiving enough for first-timers yet beautiful enough to draw seasoned sailors back year after year.
Exceptionally. The short, sheltered hops and calm waters of the Sir Francis Drake Channel make the BVI one of the easiest and safest places to sail, ideal for families with children and those new to yachting. A fully crewed catamaran makes it effortless.
December to April is prime season — reliable trade winds, warm sun and little rain. May and November are quieter shoulder months. The islands avoid charters during the June-November hurricane season.
Most begin in Tortola, the largest island, reached via a short connection through San Juan, Puerto Rico, or Antigua/St Thomas. Our team coordinates flights and transfers, and can arrange private aviation.
The Baths on Virgin Gorda, the beach bars of Jost Van Dyke, the lobster and empty sands of Anegada, the caves of Norman Island, and the protected North Sound. Your crew builds these into a relaxed weekly loop.
Yes. While beginner-friendly, the BVI rewards seasoned sailors with consistent trade winds, beautiful anchorages and the freedom to explore at will — which is why so many return season after season.
Every journey begins with a conversation. Tell us what you have in mind — dates, destinations, group size, experiences — and your Odyssea agent will craft a proposal tailored precisely to you.
An invitation-led membership for travellers who choose the ocean often. Preferred rates on yachts and villas, early access to themed departures, and bespoke journey design from our concierge — reach out to find out more.
“Oh, what an extraordinary experience it was to embark on a charter in the mesmerizing British Virgin Islands! From the moment we stepped on board, we knew we were in for an exhilarating and luxurious adventure. First and foremost, let me rave about the phenomenal crew. Their professionalism, warmth, and expertise truly elevated our experience to new heights. Their passion for sailing and the area was contagious, igniting our excitement and ensuring that every moment was filled with joy and laughter.
The sheer beauty of the BVI is beyond compare. its pristine beaches, secluded coves, and hidden gems, brought a new and awe-inspiring destination every day. We explored vibrant coral reefs teeming with tropical fish and marveled at the breathtaking sunsets painting the sky in hues of gold and pink. The crew took us to the most picturesque spots, revealing the secrets of the BVI and ensuring we experienced its true wonders. It was a journey filled with adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. We will be back, thanks Jozy for helping us and experiencing this awesome journey.”
