Experience paradise yachting in the British Virgin Islands
When you imagine paradise, it's likely the vision that springs to mind is that of sun-kissed islands covered in soft white sand, where the beaches are gently lapped by azure waters. The image you have just conjured up is remarkably close to the British Virgin Islands (BVIs).
The archipelago in the Caribbean is made up of 25 pretty isles that sit within sheltered waters, making them the perfect destination for a sailing adventure. Each of the islands has its own attractions, while simply yachting around them is a great experience that allows you to make the most of the views and the sun.
Read on to learn more about what you can expect from a yachting holiday in the BVIs.
Tortola
This is the heart of the BVIs, being the most densely populated, so you're guaranteed a lively trip getting to know the local customs. The capital city Road Town is certainly worth visiting before you cast away to explore the rest of the archipelago. Here you can spend time wondering around the stunning botanical gardens before grabbing a refreshing cocktail.
From the capital, you are ideally placed to take your first sailing excursion. Cooper Island is just a short distance away and is reached by crossing the St Francis Drake Channel, which is well protected. Although it's a short journey, it's still worth dropping anchor midway so you can dive into the warm water and spend time snorkelling.
Once at Cooper Island, you can enjoy a feast of gourmet dishes at Manchioneel Bay. Just don't go helping yourself to the apple-like fruit hanging from the trees, as it's poisonous! This is a popular site with divers, who sink beneath the waves to look at the wrecks that litter the sea bed.
Virgin Gorda
Another popular stop on any yachting trip in this part of the world is Virgin Gorda, which is not far from Cooper Island. Cross the sea for five nautical miles enjoying the good trade winds that propel you across the waves.
On the western coast of the isle is one of its most popular attractions - The Baths. There are large boulders and volcanic deposits here for you to sunbathe on, and some of the rocks have caves in them that you can explore. If you prefer to stick to the water, head to the north of the island where you'll find the petite archipelago The Dogs. This is a greatly place to go snorkelling.
Marina Cay and Cane Garden Bay
Marina Cay sits north-east of Tortola at the heart of a group of three larger islands. What makes it stand out from its bigger neighbours is its immense beauty, and you'll truly feel you have arrived in Paradise when you step on to its sands. You can enjoy a peaceful evening in this sheltered anchorage admiring the view of the blanket of stars overhead.
Onwards to Cane Garden Bay, which will see you sailing across open waters so you can really pick up the pace. This bay certainly rivals Marina Cay in terms of beauty, as the crescent beach is loaded with piles of sugar-soft sand lined by gently-waving palm trees.
This is the perfect place to round off your yachting adventure in style, as you can enjoy a drink or two at one of the busy nightspots on the beach. Treat yourself to a cocktail and slap-up meal of seafood, before heading back to the beach for a night of dancing beneath the stars.
