In the dead of winter, when the snow is blowing around the door and the winds shrike outside the ice covered window panes, many dream of warmer climates. They picture themselves, and even their friends, in one of the many Caribbean Villas for rent available throughout the region. For some, the hope is to flee to Barbados, Jamaica or even the Turks and Caicos. Others dream of the British Virgin Islands and sailing.
Why the British Virgin Islands?
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are becoming a popular destination. This series of over 50 archipelagos has it all. The islands offer a variety of scenic viewings from the flatness of Anegada to the rougher hewn Jost Van Dyke. The beaches are sugary white fine sand, sometimes bordered by palm trees, sometimes arcing in that ideal crescent shape, sometimes even stretching in flat splendor as feet follow the setting sun as it dips into the tranquil iridescent waters of the Caribbean Sea.
Snorkeling is but one of the water sports, although it is undeniably one of the finer ones with the reefs temptingly just off the shores of Smuggler’s Cove and Sandy Cove. Besides swimming there is the ever popular surfing. Surfers hang a curl off many of the beaches on Tortola, particularly in winter when the waves are at their biggest swell. Yet, in addition to such attractions as national parks, ancient ruins and fine dining and music, one of the better known facts about the BVI is the popularity of sailing.
Sailing in BVI
There is no doubt that BVI is one of the world’s most popular, finest and well-known sailing destinations. In fact, even if you are not normally a sailor, you may find yourself on board in more ways than one. Hopping on a ferry, hiring a charter or a sailboat or cruising on a yacht is the only way to reach some of the less accessible members of this archipelago system. Moreover, it is the accepted way to make a common excursion from one island to another. It is how most people go from Tortola to Virgin Gorda, Anegada or Jost Van Dyke and back.
The stunning number of sheltered bays and safe anchorages make BVI a unique and attractive place to gain your sea legs. However, if you want to stay on land and admire the sport from afar, try to arrive in time for The BVI Spring Regatta. Since 1972, the BVI has acted as one of the hosts for this seven-day racing event.
Planning ahead before you arrive is ideal, especially during High Season, but if you wait until you arrive, we will do what it takes to ensure that your stay is as enjoyable as possible.
