Sailing the Virgin Islands is the ultimate way to explore paradise! But which should you choose between the British Virgin Islands (BVI) vs the US Virgin Islands (USVI)?
Both destinations offer beautiful waters and island experiences, but they deliver very different types of yacht charters. Choosing the right one comes down to how you want to spend your time on the water.
We help you align your destination with your expectations, so your charter feels seamless from the moment you arrive.
Located just 90 miles east of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands are split into two main territories:
| Category | British Virgin Islands (BVI) | U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) |
|---|---|---|
| Number of Islands | 60+ | 3 main islands + 50 islets |
| Sailing Conditions | Calm waters, short distances, easy line-of-sight navigation | Slightly longer passages, more open water |
| Passport Required | Yes (for U.S. citizens) | No (for U.S. citizens) |
| Nightlife | Beach bars (Soggy Dollar, Foxy’s) | Casinos, clubs, live music |
| Top Snorkeling Spots | The Baths, The Indians, Wreck of the Rhone | Trunk Bay, Buck Island, Cane Bay |
| Accessibility | Via ferry or puddle jumper from St. Thomas | Direct flights from U.S. cities |
| Culture & Vibe | Laid-back, boutique feel | More developed, lively downtowns |
This sun-drenched Caribbean region is famous for its calm waters, short island-hopping distances, and rich marine life, making it ideal for all types of yacht charters. Explore the best catamaran charters for sailing in the Virgin Islands.
The Virgin Islands are comprised of two territories—the British Virgin Islands and the US Virgin Islands. These islands offer much more than beautiful beaches. Its green backdrop, hills, rich culture, white sand beaches, and various attractions make it a perfect destination for a yacht charter.
Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, Anegada, and 32 smaller cays make up the BVI within the British Overseas Territory. It has a total area of 59 square miles. The islands are ideal for those seeking blue water, white sand beaches, and a low-key atmosphere.
The BVI also offers excellent sailing opportunities with white-sand beaches, hidden coves, scuba diving, and snorkeling spots. Each island promises a unique experience, such as Anegada, where you’ll discover vibrant coral reefs and shipwrecks.
Located in the United States Territory about 45 miles east of Puerto Rico. The USVI has a total area of 133 square miles, with a larger land area than the British Virgin Islands.
The USVI offers three main islands: St Thomas, St John, and St Croix. Beyond these, there are 50 smaller islands you can explore aboard a boat. Begin your yacht charter adventure in Charlotte Amalie, the islands’ capital. Then, island hop between anchorages.
Explore the islands with a US Virgin Islands yacht charter. Choose from a range of options, including catamarans and sailing yachts, to experience the beauty of the USVI. You can also choose from all-inclusive, crewed, or bareboat yacht charters to match your style.
Getting to the USVI
Getting to the BVI
Both the BVI and USVI share a tropical climate moderated by trade winds. The dry season runs from December to May, with pleasant temperatures perfect for sailing. The rainy season, from June to November, brings occasional showers but also lower crowds and better rates. So, regardless of when you visit, you can expect sunny, warm weather and ideal sailing conditions.
English is the official language in both territories. However, in the USVI, you may also hear Spanish and Creole spoken, reflecting the islands’ diverse cultural influences. The BVI, while predominantly English-speaking, also sees some Creole influences, especially on the smaller islands.
The USVI is more densely populated than the BVI, catering to thousands of locals and visitors yearly. However, the islands still offer secluded beaches for those seeking a more laid-back vacation experience.
Residents of the US Virgin Islands hold US citizenship, reflecting the territory’s status as part of the US. Conversely, residents of the British Virgin Islands are UK citizens.
BVI Highlights:
USVI Highlights:
The BVI is widely regarded as the Caribbean’s sailing capital. With its protected waters, steady trade winds, and numerous islands to explore, it’s an ideal location for both beginners and seasoned sailors.
Popular destinations like Virgin Gorda’s The Baths, Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay, and the hidden coves of Anegada offer plenty of anchorage spots for private yacht charters.
The USVI is also an excellent sailing destination, particularly for those seeking variety in both land and water activities. While the islands are larger and more populated than the BVI, they still offer plenty of sailing opportunities, including sailing to Buck Island National Monument or hopping between St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix. The USVI’s more commercialized feel means you’ll find more amenities and entertainment onshore.
Tortola, the largest island in the BVI, is home to the capital city, Road Town. Experience a yachting paradise on its islands. Additionally, Tortola offers excellent opportunities for hiking and surfing.
While in Cane Garden Bay, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Callwood Rum Distillery. Here, you can observe the process of rum-making and enjoy tasting sessions.
Jost Van Dyke is the smallest among the main islands of the BVI. Swim in the crystal-clear waters and soak up the sun on the pristine shores of White Bay.
Furthermore, Jost Van Dyke has a vibrant beach bar scene, making it the ultimate party destination in the BVI. With stunning beach bars and restaurants, you’ll find yourself dancing, drinking, and reveling in the island’s festive spirit.
Virgin Gorda is the second-largest island in the BVI. It is famous for its luxurious resorts, making it an ideal destination for honeymoons and romantic charters.
This picturesque island is also home to natural wonders like the Baths and Gorda Peak National Park. Additionally, along your charter journey, indulge in the flavors of the Caribbean amidst breathtaking island scenery at CoCoMaya.
Anegada is known for its rich marine and wildlife. Here, you can observe flamingos gracing the beaches and catch a glimpse of rock iguanas on the island.
Exploring St. Thomas on a yacht charter offers a unique blend of both land and water experiences. Whether paddle boarding on Magens Bay or simply strolling around Charlotte Amalie, your stay will be fun.
Or consider taking the Skyride to Paradise Point, showcasing the aerial views of the surrounding islands.
Don’t overlook Water Island, a charming small island worth exploring during your stay in the US Virgin Islands.
A visit to St John will experience the Virgin Islands National Park, the main attraction. Here, you’ll encounter a diverse array of flora and fauna alongside fascinating wildlife that calls this pristine park home.
St. John is home to world-famous beaches, including Trunk Bay, Maho Bay, and Francis Bay. The island also offers an array of hiking trails and underwater adventures.
St Croix is the largest island, with historic forts, sugar mills, and rum distilleries. A few kilometers away, Buck Island is ideal for a private sea adventure.
The island of St. John reflects its Danish influence through its national park, where the remnants of 18th-century buildings stand.
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U.S. citizens who stay within the United States while enjoying a tropical getaway must choose USVI. Located in the United States, traveling to the USVI is hassle-free for American citizens.
The British Virgin Islands is the mecca of the Caribbean. It offers more sailing destinations for yacht charters to explore than the USVI.
The BVI is the best option for UK citizens who prefer to travel freely, either for short or long sailing durations.
Read “What is Sailing in the BVI like?” for more details.
The BVI and USVI each offer unique experiences. Whether you’re seeking a peaceful getaway or an exciting adventure, you’ll have an unforgettable yacht charter.
The best time to visit is between December and April when the weather is dry and ideal for sailing. For fewer crowds and better rates, consider visiting in September and October. Spring, particularly during the Regatta season, is popular among sailors.
Plan your visit to the US Virgin Islands between December and mid-May to make the most of the favorable weather. While Spring brings minimal rainfall, enhancing the fun and safety of water activities.
From St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, charter a yacht to visit the nearby destinations in the British Virgin Islands. Many all-inclusive charters are now sailing in the BVI.
Certainly, the British Virgin Islands abound with sailing opportunities. This allows you to charter a crewed yacht to St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix in the US Virgin Islands.
Traveling between the US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands can be done by ferry or plane. However, the schedules can be tricky. We recommend a yacht charter, which allows you to explore the must-see spots at your own pace.
No matter where you go, a yacht charter in the Virgin Islands is an unforgettable experience. Ready to sail? Contact us to plan your perfect trip!
Not sure where to start? Our experts know the BVI and USVI inside out and can help you pick the best route. Reach out today to get started!
Read more about chartering in the USVI and BVI.
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