The British Virgin Islands should definitely be up there on your superyacht bucket list. With sparkling sapphire waters, immaculate white beaches, lush green mountains, secluded bays, secret grottos, delicious food, imaginative drinks, and plenty to do and see, it really is a must-visit destination. Luckily, it’s also a favourite of Motor Yacht Loon and her crew, and since we know the island chain like the back of our hand, you’ll experience the best of the British Virgin Islands, with as much or as little effort on your part as you wish.
Located just east of Porto Rico, the BVIs are composed of over 60 islands and keys, with more than 43 uninhabited. The majority are steep, mountainous volcanic islands like the larger islands of Tortola and Virgin Gorda, accompanied by a small number of flat coral islands like Anegada, commonly referred to as the Drowned Island. A charter onboard Motor Yacht Loon can explore the entirety of the British Virgin Islands or a sampling of what they have to offer as part of a larger Caribbean cruise. The itinerary Is entirely down to you.
The Islands
Tortola
As the capital isle, there’s plenty to do and see on Tortola. Ruins of historic settlements sit side by side with luxury resorts and modern townships. Those interested in local history can visit the 1780 Lower Estate Sugar Works, where sugar was produced until the 1940s. Callwood’s Rum distillery features the original structure of a Sugar Cane distillery. The original boiler is still used today to produce rum, which is then stored in original casks, ready to be sampled.
In the centre of Road Town lies J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens, which was established in 1979 and is renowned for being among the finest gardens in the Caribbean. Named after the island’s first conservationist, Joseph Reynold O’Neil, the four-acre gardens are beautified by a vast array of lush indigenous and exotic tropical plants.
Keen hikers can explore the island’s seven trails, with the premier being the 4km out-and-back train through the rainforest to Mount Sage, where you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views.
Anegada
The BVIs second largest island is also one of its most unique. Given the fact that it only rises 28 feet above sea level, it’s commonly known as the Sunken Island. Beautiful reefs, underwater caves, tunnel formations, vivid sea life, and life-burgeoning shipwrecks make it a perfect spot for snorkelling and diving.
On land, you’ll spot rock iguanas and wild orchids. Cow Wreck Beach, Windlass Bight, Flash of Beauty, and Bones Bight are beautiful, quiet beaches that offer the perfect spot for quiet contemplation and relaxation. In the east end of the island lie the ancient Arawak conch mounds. The conch beds were made by local fishermen, who have been tossing empty conch shells into the area since the 13th century. There are also numerous shipwrecks surrounding Anegada, including Spanish galleons, British Galleons, and American privateers.
Virgin Gorda
Virgin Gorda, the BVIs third largest island, was named by Christopher Columbus, who decided its shape reminded him of a reclining woman. Highly regarded as the most beautiful of the BVI’s, guests of Virgin Gorda will be captivated by the vibrant coral reefs, endless stretches of remote beaches, and its world-famous Baths. The Baths, located on the island’s southern tip, are without doubt the island’s most famous attraction. Timeless natural boulders have created pools of water and grottos that are just begging to be explored. The Baths sit between Spring Bay and Devil’s Bay, beautiful beaches that offer fascinating coral reef snorkelling.
The calm waters of North Sound Bay are the perfect place to drop anchor and enjoy the vast amount of toys we have aboard Loon. On land, guests can shop for souvenirs and artisan goods in Spanish town, the second largest village in the BVI’s. Those looking to explore on foot can explore the trails through Little Fort National Park or hike to Gorda Peak, the highest point on the island.
Jost Van Dyke
Jost Van Dyke may be one of the BVI’s smallest islands, but there’s still plenty to explore. Discover the ruins of early sugar mills, surviving explorer footpaths, and endless amounts of beautiful wildlife. The Bubbly Pool is a must-visit when on this island. The naturally occurring hot tub is surrounded by cliffs that allow waves to crash through a small gap and create a natural fizzy bubble bath. Jost Van Dyke is also a great place for foodies, as it’s a melting pot of dining experiences. Head to one of our favourite spots, the Soggy Dollar bar, and enjoy the famous ‘Pain killer’ cocktail, a local speciality.
Other Places of Interest
Salt Island
Located close to Totola, Salt island is famous for its rich history and one of the BVI’s most visited attractions, the wreck of the RMS Rhone. A fierce hurricane sunk the 310-foot twin-masted steamer in 1867. The dive site is the BVI’s first and only Marine National Park and is home to seagrass beds and fringing reef habitat. The stunning HMS Rhone lies in 65-80 feet of water, with the bow, the most intact section, sitting at its deepest.
Norman Island
The picturesque Norman Island is said to have been Robert Louis Stevenson’s inspiration for his famous novel Treasure Island. Today, it’s the perfect place to set anchor and enjoy the water. In the evening, we’ll board Willy T’s pirate ship to enjoy sundowner drinks.
There are, of course, a ton of spots across the islands we like to visit, including scuba diving at Necker reef and sunset cruises to check out Richard Branson’s Necker Island and Statia Island, owned by the owner of Google. To discuss your British Virgin Island Charter aboard Motor Yacht Loon, email us at info@motoryactloon.com. We’re ready to make your BVI superyacht charter your best vacation yet.
Check out our insider’s guides to the other incredible destinations we regularly visit.