Both the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) offer incredible sailing experiences—but the BVI is often considered the gold standard for yacht charters, especially for travelers looking for a more upscale or luxury experience. While the two groupings of islands are directly adjacent to each other, they have distinct differences. If you’re researching sailing charter vacations, and you aren’t sure if you should visit the BVI or the USVI, here's a breakdown of the top reasons to choose a BVI sailing charter.
The British Virgin Islands have earned their reputation as one of the top sailing destinations in the world—and although we might be biased, we can certainly see why! This region offers near-perfect conditions for chartering: steady trade winds, warm weather year-round, and calm, protected waters thanks to the natural shelter of the surrounding islands.
The short distances between destinations—often just 1 to 2 hours of sailing—make it easy to explore a new island each day, without long hauls or the concern of rough seas. Whether you're a seasoned sailor or a first-time guest aboard a crewed catamaran, the BVI provides a smooth, scenic, and stress-free sailing experience. With over 60 islands and cays to discover, the adventure can be as laid-back or lively as you want it to be.
One of the biggest draws of a BVI sailing charter is the incredible variety of islands and anchorages you can explore—each offering its own unique vibe, scenery, and charm. You can set sail from one breathtaking spot to the next with minimal travel time, making island-hopping easy and enjoyable.
Jost Van Dyke is famous for its laid-back beach bars like the legendary Soggy Dollar and Foxy’s, where live music and island cocktails are the norm. Virgin Gorda is home to the iconic and well-photographed Baths, where massive granite boulders form natural tide pools and grottoes you can explore by foot and snorkel. Norman Island, said to be the inspiration for Treasure Island, offers incredible underwater caves at The Indians and The Caves—ideal for snorkeling adventures. And Anegada, unlike the other volcanic islands, is flat and surrounded by vibrant coral reefs and pink-sand beaches, offering a more off-the-beaten-path atmosphere.
These well-spaced, accessible islands allow for diverse experiences in a single charter: one day you’re sipping Painkillers with your toes in the sand at Soggy Dollar, the next you're swimming through sea caves off Norman Island or dining on freshly-caught lobster at a beach shack on Anegada. It’s truly the perfect combination of adventure, relaxation, and luxury—all within reach. View a sample charter itinerary for the BVI here.
While the BVI is beloved for its relaxed, barefoot-island vibe, it also offers a surprisingly sophisticated side—especially when it comes to its marinas and beach clubs. From exclusive enclaves to stylish waterfront restaurants, sailors can easily combine the thrill of off-the-grid exploration with moments of high-end indulgence.
Places like Saba Rock—recently rebuilt into a sleek, modern boutique resort—invite boaters to drop anchor and step into an elevated island experience, complete with a lively bar, fresh seafood, and stunning views. Oil Nut Bay, on the eastern tip of Virgin Gorda, is another standout, offering access to a luxury resort community with fine dining, a beach club, and spa. The newly renovated Peter Island Yacht Club is capable of accommodating yachts up to 200 feet, and amenities include a 10,000 sq ft spa, a casual restaurant, and a beachfront steakhouse.
One of the things that makes the BVI so special is the juxtaposition—you can spend your morning swimming ashore to a beach bar in flip-flops and your evening sipping craft cocktails by candlelight in an upscale marina. It's this blend of laid-back charm and refined comfort that keeps luxury travelers coming back: no pretension, just perfectly balanced island elegance.
While the British Virgin Islands often get the spotlight, the U.S. Virgin Islands have their own distinct appeal—especially for travelers seeking convenience. U.S. citizens don’t need a passport to charter in the USVI, making it an easy, last-minute option for families or groups. It's also a great jumping-off point for dual-island itineraries, where you can start in St. Thomas or St. John and add BVI stops with a quick customs check-in. With fewer charter boats overall, the USVI can offer a more relaxed experience at anchor during certain times of the year. You'll also find rich cultural and natural diversity, from historic sites and vibrant nightlife in St. Thomas to pristine snorkeling spots around St. John. But if you’re craving serenity, exclusivity, and a private island yachting experience with breathtaking natural beauty, the BVI is likely the right choice for a sailing vacation. Learn more about Endless Summer III today.
