10 Must See Spots To Visit In The British Virgin Islands

Located just off Norman Island, The Indians offer some of the best snorkeling in the British Virgin Islands.

These rocky pinnacles rise dramatically from the sea and are surrounded by vibrant coral and marine life.

Expect to see:

• Tropical fish
• Coral formations
• Sea turtles
• Schools of colorful reef fish

This is often the first snorkeling stop many charter guests experience and it rarely disappoints.

Best For:

• Snorkeling
• Underwater photography
• Marine life

The Caves at Norman Island

via bestofusvi.com

 Legend has it that Norman Island inspired Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island. Whether that’s true or not, the caves are worth visiting.

These large sea caves are accessible by dinghy or while snorkeling and offer a unique underwater experience with dramatic rock formations and schools of fish. The water is typically calm and clear, making it suitable for snorkelers of all experience levels.

Best For:

• Snorkeling
• Families
• Exploring

The Bight and Willy T

via willytbvi.com

Following the recent reopening of Peter Island Resort, this beautiful island is once again becoming a popular stop for charter yachts. The island features:

• Beautiful beaches
• Scenic anchorages
• Upscale dining
• Excellent hiking opportunities

Deadman’s Bay remains one of the most beautiful beaches in the Virgin Islands.

Best For:

• Scenic anchorages
• Hiking
• Luxury experiences

Things To Know Before Visiting The BVI

Currency

The official currency of the British Virgin Islands is the United States Dollar (USD). This makes travel particularly easy for visitors arriving from the United States since no currency exchange is required.

Credit cards are widely accepted throughout the islands, although carrying some cash is always recommended for smaller establishments, taxis, and tips.

Language

English is the official language of the British Virgin Islands. Communication is easy for most visitors, and locals are generally welcoming and friendly toward tourists.

Tipping and Local Customs

Tipping is customary throughout the BVI.

Typical guidelines include:

• Restaurants: 15% to 20% if not already included
• Taxi drivers: 10% to 15%
• Charter crews: Typically 15% to 20% of the charter fee based on service and satisfaction

Island life tends to move at a more relaxed pace than many visitors are accustomed to. Patience, friendliness, and a laid back attitude go a long way.

Cost of Food and Drinks

The BVI is not an inexpensive destination.

Because nearly everything must be imported, prices are generally higher than many visitors expect.

Approximate costs:

• Local beer: $5 to $8
• Cocktail: $10 to $18
• Casual lunch: $15 to $30 per person
• Dinner ashore: $30 to $80+ per person

Guests on crewed charters often find that having meals included onboard helps reduce overall vacation spending.

Why A Yacht Charter Is Hands Down The Best Way To Experience The BVI

By now, you might be starting to see why the British Virgin Islands and yacht chartering go hand in hand. Unlike many destinations where the highlights are concentrated in one area, the very best spots in the BVI are spread throughout the entire island chain.

The Baths are on Virgin Gorda. White Bay and Foxy’s are on Jost Van Dyke. The Indians, The Caves, and The Willy T are near Norman Island. North Sound sits on the opposite end of Virgin Gorda. Anegada is a world unto itself, located miles away from the rest of the islands.

Trying to experience all of these places from a single hotel or resort quickly becomes a logistical challenge involving ferries, taxis, day trips, schedules, and travel time. On a yacht, the transportation is part of the experience.

Instead of spending your vacation commuting between destinations, you cruise through some of the most beautiful waters in the Caribbean while enjoying lunch on deck, spotting sea turtles, snorkeling coral reefs, and taking in the scenery along the way.

One morning you might be enjoying coffee overlooking North Sound. That afternoon you’re snorkeling The Indians. The next day you’re sipping a Painkiller in White Bay before anchoring off Norman Island for sunset.

The journey between destinations becomes just as memorable as the destinations themselves. The BVI was quite literally made for yacht chartering. The islands are close together, the waters are generally protected, the scenery is spectacular, and nearly every iconic attraction is best accessed by boat.

Could you visit the BVI without chartering a yacht? Of course.

But once you’ve experienced waking up in a new anchorage every morning with your accommodations, transportation, private chef, and captain all moving with you, it’s hard to imagine exploring the islands any other way.