Island Hopping in the British Virgin Islands: A Seven Day Sojourn by Catamaran
Set Sail in Style: Your Ultimate Caribbean Yacht Charter Vacation
Looking for an unforgettable tropical escape packed with adventure, white-sand beaches, vibrant beach bars, fresh seafood, world-class snorkeling, and sunsets that melt into turquoise waters? Welcome to the British Virgin Islands (BVI). This stunning overseas British territory—home to over 60 islands and cays including Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke—offers the ultimate destination for travelers seeking adventure as well as rest and relaxation.
Rather than staying at a resort, my husband and I, along with two other couples from Koa Kai Marina in San Diego, opted to explore the BVI aboard a private power catamaran charter from The Moorings. Our floating home for the week? The luxurious 54’ Moorings Powercat, Seafit. From the moment we stepped aboard, we were immersed in the freedom and luxury of life at sea.
Tortola – Ready to Provision
After a red-eye flight from Phoenix to Miami, a layover, and a short hop to Tortola, we were greeted by the warm Caribbean air and The Moorings’ professional team. While our yacht was being prepped, we enjoyed lunch nearby and stocked up on provisions at the local market and liquor store.
That afternoon, the designated captains in our group attended a thorough charter briefing—covering safety, mooring procedures, navigation tips, and island-specific advice (including what to do in case of sea urchin pricks or coral cuts). We boarded Seafit at 4 PM for our sleep-aboard night, a great option for those wanting to settle in early.
Seafit was a dream. At 53’ long and 25’ wide, this powercat felt like a floating villa, with four spacious staterooms, ensuite heads, a fully equipped galley, plush salon, ample outdoor lounging space, an upper deck with grill and fridge, and even a water maker.
We toasted the start of our journey with margaritas on deck and dined at Charlie’s, the on-site marina restaurant, soaking in the anticipation of the adventure ahead.
Jost Van Dyke – Painkillers, Pools, and Party Vibes
After a short weather delay, we cruised to Jost Van Dyke, the most relaxed and legendary island in the BVI. Our first stop was Little Harbor, where we moored and took the dinghy to Foxy’s Taboo for our inaugural Caribbean cocktail—the renowned Painkiller.
From there we hiked to the Bubbly Pool, a natural sea-formed jacuzzi where waves crash through volcanic rocks to create a bubbly, refreshing swim.
Back aboard, we cruised around to Great Harbor and scored a mooring ball before taking the dinghy to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar in White Bay. We lounged on beach chairs with our feet in the surf and sampled conch fritters—a favorite island snack from next door at Hendo’s Hideout.
That evening, we dined on rum ribs and fresh fish at The Tipsy Shark and danced late into the night at Foxy’s, a legendary beach bar known for its live music and spontaneous fun.
Virgin Gorda – Celebrity Hotspot and Saba Rock Splendor
After sleeping in and enjoying homemade breakfast burritos on board, we made our way to Virgin Gorda, cruising past Necker Island (owned by Sir Richard Branson). We docked at the renowned Bitter End Yacht Club, a marina resort perfect for relaxing after a few days on the hook. While we love floating on a mooring ball, it is nice to stay in a slip and enjoy the amenities of the marina. Especially at Bitter End, where we spent an afternoon lounging on the beach, snorkling by the reef, and drinking fruity mai tais.
Later that afternoon, we took the dinghy to Saba Rock, a tiny island with a big reputation. It’s home to a resort, restaurant, and bar that were reconstructed after Hurricane Irma in 2017, and it’s a top destination for boaters.
At 5:00pm each day they feed a large school of tarpon, which is a delight to watch as the massive fish – 3 to 5 feet long, jump and splash for their dinner entertaining visitors while they sip cocktails and sample delicious island bites with a stunning view!
After a sumptuous dinner at Saba Rock, we moved upstairs to their bar with a DJ and, you guessed it, more dancing! We ran into a group of boaters we had met the night before at Jost Van Dyke and found out they are traveling our same itinerary for the week. It’s common on these journeys to meet fellow charter groups and make friends with people from all over the world.
Virgin Gorda - Exploring The Baths & Pirate Fun at Leverick Bay
In the morning, we headed to Leverick Bay for a mooring and took a lively open-air taxi to The Baths—a must-see natural wonder. Giant granite boulders create hidden pools, sunlit grottos, and winding trails that feel like something out of a fantasy novel.
After our hike and a cool-down at Top of The Baths (which includes a restaurant and a refreshing pool), we returned to Seafit to rest up before an entertaining evening. That night, we joined the crowd at Michael Bean’s Happy Arrrr Show—a pirate-themed musical performance full of island songs, conch-blowing contests, and laughter. We closed out the night with dinner and cocktails on deck, watching the sunset paint the sky.
Virgin Gorda - Oil Nut Bay Luxury and Dinner at Cocoa Maya
After a restful night at Leverick Bay, we motored to Oil Nut Bay, a private island resort reachable only by boat or helicopter. This upscale destination offers stunning snorkel spots, a serene beach club, infinity pool, and luxurious tranquility.
In the evening, we boarded a water shuttle for dinner at Cocoa Maya, one of the most romantic restaurants in the BVI. Nestled right on the sand with candlelit tables, craft cocktails, and unbeatable views of the sunset, this was a highlight of the trip. The whole fried red snapper was exquisite, and the ambiance was pure Caribbean magic.
Anegada – Lobster, Flamingos, and Beach Bar Hopping
Our early departure led us to Anegada, the only coral island in the BVI chain. Flat, remote, and encircled by the sprawling Horseshoe Reef, it feels like another world.
After mooring, we rented mini mokes—fun open-air cars—and explored the island, spotting Caribbean flamingos, wild goats, and pristine beaches. We bar-hopped from Big Bamboo to Cow Wreck to Typsy’s, sampling lobster fritters and, of course, more Painkillers.
Anagada is famous for their lobster. Locals catch and prepare them daily upon advance request, guaranteeing the freshest from the sea. That evening, dinner was at Sid’s Pomato Point. Each plate came with two enormous tails—succulent, sweet, and grilled to perfection. We lingered with cocktails, meeting Sid, the owner, before heading back to the boat under a sky full of stars.
Norman Island - Stormy Seas and Shenanigans
This was our longest leg—around 3-4 hours—and Mother Nature didn’t hold back. We faced 4–6 foot swells and heavy rain with minimal visibility. Thanks to the teamwork of our experienced crew, we made it safely to Norman Island in time for lunch.
After mooring, we made a beeline for Willy T’s, a floating pirate ship bar infamous for its wild atmosphere and daring guests who leap from the top deck into the sea. Of course, I had to join them! It’s a popular respite for fun and debachery.
Dinner was at Pirate’s Bight on Norman Island, beautifully rebuilt after Hurricane Irma. While the ambiance was great, this was our only disappointing meal—mediocre food and slow service. Still, the laughter and stories at our table made the night memorable.
Peter Island - Paradise Found
Our final day included a luxurious visit to Peter Island, a private resort that epitomizes tranquility. With access to exclusive beaches, a world-class spa, pickleball and bocce courts, and dreamy hammock-filled gardens, this was the perfect place to unwind before heading home.
After one last trip across the sea and a final toast aboard Seafit, we returned to The Moorings marina on Tortola. Packing up was bittersweet—but we left filled with gratitude, friendship, and so many sun-kissed memories.
Chartering a Boat in the BVI: A Must-Do for Sea Lovers
Whether you’re an experienced boater or a first-time charter guest, a Moorings power catamaran offers a luxurious, customized way to explore the Caribbean. Each island offers something unique: from lobster feasts and DJ dance parties to secret coves, pirate legends, and barefoot relaxation. It is the perfect blend of seafaring adventure, island discovery, and tropical indulgence. I can’t wait to return!
Plan Your BVI Yacht Charter Adventure
Best Time to Visit: December–May for dry weather and cooler trade winds
Charter Base: The Moorings Marina, Tortola
Must-Pack Items: Reef-safe sunscreen, water shoes, dry bag, camera, swimsuits, sunglasses, layered shirts. If your hometown has stickers, be sure to bring them to mark your visit on a wall at each beach bar!
Local Favorites: Painkillers, conch fritters, lobster, fresh fish, and mai tais
Shopping: Each island has a host of quality logo’d merchandise and apparel for sale. Save room in your suitcase to bring home a collection of tangible memories!
Next Voyage - Come along as I visit Boston’s artistic SOWA District before boarding the NCL Jewel for a return trip to the breathtaking island of Bermuda.
Till then, keep cruisin’ through life, discovering your own special Things!
CHEERS!
