Guide for Your Initial BVI Yacht Rental Experience
In the heart of the Caribbean, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) proved to be a paradise that lived up to every expectation for one lucky traveller. The vacation was filled with sun-soaked days and endless fun, made all the more enjoyable with the help of resources like The Moorings Mainsheet blog and their comprehensive base guide.
The first port of call was The Moorings Road Town base, a massive marina teeming with hundreds of yachts, two restaurants, shops, and individual locker rooms boasting dual-shower heads. Among the fleet, the author was particularly captivated by the Moorings 5800, the largest catamaran, whose size was nothing short of impressive.
The itinerary for this unforgettable journey included a mix of stunning beaches, unique natural attractions, and vibrant local culture. One of the highlights was The Baths on Virgin Gorda, a breathtaking natural wonder featuring giant granite boulders that create hidden pools, tunnels, and serene beaches. Visitors are encouraged to explore, hike, and capture memories, but sturdy shoes are a must for the rocky trails.
Another must-see was Cane Garden Bay on Tortola, one of the busiest and most beautiful beaches on the north side. Lively beach bars, clear waters, and comparisons to the famous Magen’s Bay on nearby St. Thomas make it a beach lover's dream. For those seeking a more tranquil experience, Smuggler's Cove offers a quieter, secluded beach ideal for snorkelling and relaxation.
White Bay on Jost Van Dyke is renowned for its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, beach bars, and vibrant nightlife. A visit to Sage Mountain National Park, Tortola's highest point, offers hiking trails through lush rainforest with panoramic views.
Anegada Island, with its unique flat coral island landscape, pristine beaches, excellent lobster cuisine, and abundant snorkelling around Horseshoe Reef, was another unmissable destination.
Besides these top spots, the author also recommends exploring Road Town, the capital city of Tortola, as well as additional beaches such as Devil’s Bay and Long Bay Beach. For an immersive experience, consider timing your visit to coincide with cultural festivals like the Anegada Lobster Festival and Tortola Carnival.
The author found that Carib beer was a refreshing treat and regrets not trying it earlier during the vacation. Bug encounters were rare, thanks to the steady breeze when on the boat, but it's still wise to bring along a bottle of bug repellant in a dry-bag when going ashore.
Before setting sail, mandatory chart and boat briefings at the base proved to be both entertaining and informative, providing valuable local tips and recommendations. One piece of advice worth heeding is to practice getting back into the dinghy from the water before exploring snorkelling sites like The Caves or The Indians.
The author looks forward to returning to the BVI and can't imagine experiencing the Caribbean islands any other way. The journey taught a valuable lesson about living in the moment, to the point of forgetting a cell phone on multiple occasions. All in all, a yacht charter vacation in the British Virgin Islands offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and local culture.
Mark Pillsbury, Editor of Cruising World, sums it up best when he refers to The Moorings as the "granddaddy charter company of them all". If you're ready for an adventure of a lifetime, consider setting sail with The Moorings and discovering the magic of the British Virgin Islands for yourself.
During the trip, the author was captivated by the Moorings 5800, a power catamaran that was a standout among the yachts in the marina. At the conclusion of the adventure, the author highly recommends a yacht charter vacation in the British Virgin Islands, suggesting that it offers an exceptional blend of power catamarans like the Moorings 5800, natural beauty, outdoor activities, and an immersive cultural experience – all integral components of an unforgettable lifestyle travel scenario.
