British Virgin Islands: The Perfect Winter Sailing Destination

Dreaming of a sun-drenched escape this winter? The British Virgin Islands (BVIs) offer a sailing experience like no other, where turquoise waters meet pristine beaches, and each day unfolds into a new adventure. With warm, balmy temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F–86°F), steady trade winds, and calm seas, winter is the perfect time to explore this Caribbean heaven.

Far removed from the hustle and bustle, the BVIs provide a serene retreat for those seeking to sail among unspoiled islands and discover secluded coves. The winter season is particularly magical, with ideal sailing conditions and endless opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty, vibrant marine life, and laid-back island vibes. 

Why Sail a Catamaran in the BVIs?

A catamaran is the best choice for navigating the BVIs. With its shallow draft, you can easily access the pristine beaches, shallow reefs, and secluded anchorages for which the region is famous.

The spacious decks and comfortable interiors provide the perfect blend of relaxation and luxury for island hopping with family or friends.

Why the BVIs are Perfect for Island Hopping

• Short Distances: Most islands are only a few nautical miles apart, making for leisurely and enjoyable sailing.

• Calm Waters: The sheltered Sir Francis Drake Channel ensures smooth sailing conditions.

• Natural Beauty: Pristine beaches, vibrant reefs, and lush landscapes await you at every turn.

Where Are the British Virgin Islands Located?

The BVIs are an overseas British territory in the Caribbean, southeast of the Gulf of Mexico. The archipelago consists of four main islands—Tortola, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke—plus over 50 smaller islets and cays. These islands are perfect for a sailing holiday, with short distances between them and endless opportunities for exploration.

How to Get to the BVIs

• From Europe: Take an international flight to Antigua (ANU) or St. Martin (SXM), then connect to Tortola (EIS) or other nearby islands via local flights.

• From North America: Fly to Puerto Rico or St. Thomas (US Virgin Islands) and take a domestic flight or ferry to Tortola.

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Yacht rental British Virgin Islands

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7-Day Sailing Itinerary in the BVIs 

Day 1: Tortola/RoadTown – Pelican Island -  Norman Island

Day 2: Norman Island - Peter Island – Cooper Island

Day 3: Cooper Island – Virgin Gorda /The Baths/Spanish Town

Day 4: Virgin Gorda – Anegada

Day 5: Anegada – Beef Island

Day 6: Beef Island – Jost van Dyke - Return to Tortola

Day 7: Check Out in Tortola

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Day 1 - Tortola/RoadTown – Pelican Island -  Norman Island

Distance: 8 NM | Sailing Time: ~2 hours

Start your journey in Road Town, Tortola, where you can provision and prepare your catamaran. Set sail to Pelican Island, known for its rocky cliffs and underwater treasures, perfect for snorkelling. Continue to Norman Island, home to the famous Treasure Point Caves—ideal for sea-level exploration.
 

Don’t miss: The floating restaurant Willy T, a unique dining experience on the water.

The legendary Willy T on Norman Island - credits: www.caribjournal.com

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Day 2 - Norman Island - Peter Island – Cooper Island

Distance: 12 NM | Sailing Time: ~3 hours

Head to Peter Island and enjoy the white sands of Deadman’s Bay, steeped in pirate lore. Then sail to Cooper Island, anchoring at Manchineel Bay. Cooper Island Beach Club offers fantastic food and craft cocktails to end your day.

For adventure lovers: Dive at Salt Island to explore the wreck of the RMS Rhone, one of the best dive sites in the Caribbean.

The RMS Rhone shipwreck in Salt Island. Credits: www.tripadvisor.com

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Sailboat Rental BVI: Click here to book your boat!

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Day 3 - Cooper Island – Virgin Gorda /The Baths/Spanish Town

Distance: 14 NM | Sailing Time: ~3.5 hours
 

Sail to Virgin Gorda, home to the iconic Devil’s Bay (The Baths) National Park—Marvel at massive granite boulders creating hidden pools and caves. Visit Spanish Town for its charming harbour and local dining options.
 

Don’t miss: Hike to Virgin Gorda Peak for panoramic views of the islands.

The famous Baths on Virgin Gorda

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Day 4 - Virgin Gorda – Anegada

Distance: 20 NM | Sailing Time: ~4–5 hours
 

Sail to the flat, coral island of Anegada, known for its untouched beauty and vibrant marine life. Relax on its secluded beaches or rent a scooter to explore the island.
 

Don’t miss: Snorkel at Horseshoe Reef, one of the world's largest coral reefs, or savour freshly caught lobster at Potter’s By The Sea.

Turquoise waters and white beaches on Anegada Island

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Day 5 - Anegada – Beef Island

Anegada is the beautiful island that will host us on the fifth day of this journey. Here you can spot the flamboyance of flamingos that found their home in the evaporated basins used for salt extraction.

Cow Wreck Beach is one of the stunning white-sand beaches that we suggest visiting, but if you’d like to be pampered a bit, head to Anegada Beach Club, not far away from the snorkelling area of Keep Point.

Beef Island is our final stop of the day. Long Bay Beach is perfect to relax and call it a day, but if you’re still into some action, you can visit Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, inaugurated by Her Majesty in 1866.

Not to miss: Kayak or paddleboard in the calm waters around Trellis Bay.

Cow Wreck Beach on Beef Island

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Day 6 - Beef Island – Jost van Dyke - Return to Tortola

Distance: 18 NM | Sailing Time: ~4 hours

Distance: 10 NM | Sailing Time: ~2–3 hours
 

Sail to the lively island of Jost Van Dyke, named after a Dutch pirate. Spend time snorkelling and swimming at White Bay, or try water sports in Cane Garden Bay. Spend your final day soaking up the sun in Jost Van Dyke or revisit a favourite stop before sailing back to Tortola in the evening.

Don’t miss: Visit the Soggy Dollar Bar for their signature cocktail, the Painkiller—a Caribbean classic.

The famous Painkiller, signature cocktail at Soggy Dollar Bar in Jost Van Dyke

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Day 7: Check Out in Tortola

On the seventh day, the boat must be returned in the morning unless otherwise agreed. Arriving at the harbour the evening before ensures a smooth and stress-free check-out process.

White Bay on Jost Van Dyke Island

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Embark on your dream sailing holiday in the British Virgin Islands. From crystal-clear waters to unparalleled on-land adventures, every stop offers something magical. Whether it's exploring The Baths, indulging in Anegada lobster, or relaxing on the decks of your catamaran, the BVIs are a sailor’s paradise waiting to be discovered!