Sailing in the British Virgin Islands
If you are a sailing enthusiast then the British Virgin Islands is
the perfect place to come and vacation in. This tiny Caribbean nation
offers some of the best sailing opportunities in the region with its
calm waters, pleasant weather year round, steady trade winds and protected
bays. Additionally, you do not have to worry about tides or current
either as much of the sailing done here is along the protected 56
km long Sir Francis Drake Channel. Out here you will find literally
hundreds of anchorages where you can drop anchor. Sailing conditions
in the British Virgin Islands are ideal for the novice as well as
the experienced sailor.
Out here if you are interested in sailing, you have the choice
of joining a sailing school, acquiring a bareboat charter with or
without a captain, or if you have the money to spend, hiring a luxury
yacht complete with skipper, crew and boat staff. A sailing school
is a great idea if you are new to sailing, as you can learn the
ropes in some truly ideal sailing conditions. For those who like
to go sailing alone, a bareboat charter is a good idea.
One of the best things about sailing in the British Virgin Islands
is the unhurried pace of life. Out here the people are more relaxed
and chilled out, making sailing in this region a great experience.
You will need at least a week to sail around the British Virgin
Islands, especially if you wish to visit the main islands of Tortola,
Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke. Tortola is the largest island to
sail around, taking a few days.
If you are looking to charter a boat, you can find plenty of boat
rentals here from your more basic sail boat to a luxury yacht. The
cost usually depends on the size of your sailing vessel as well as
the age of the boat and the time of year you wish to go sailing in.
Avoid sailing in peak tourist season as boat rental rates tend to
go up. There are a number of charter companies in the British Virgin
Islands making it very easy to find a boat. However, do take your
time and choose your boat charter company wisely. Look for a company
that is well reputed and also ask for references. In Tortola, you
can contact the BVI Charter Yacht Society for help.
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