The Virgin Islands are a known as the sailor’s paradise—a sun-drenched playground of steady trade winds, turquoise waters, and palm-fringed anchorages. Whether you’re dreaming of a weeklong catamaran vacations or scoping out your future floating home, sailing in the Virgin Islands offers the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and luxury. Here’s your guide to planning the ultimate sailing vacation in the Virgin Islands.
Why the Virgin Islands Are the Perfect Sailing Destination
The Virgin Islands offer sheltered waters, consistent breezes, short passages, and endless scenic beauty. With over 60 islands and cays between the USVI and BVI, there’s something for every sailor—lively beach bars, secluded bays, world-class snorkeling, and historic shipwrecks.
Highlights include:
- Cooper Island
- White Bay, Jost Van Dyke (home of the famous Soggy Dollar Bar)
- The caves at Norman Island
- The lively marina scene at Nanny Cay and Scrub Island
What to Expect on a Virgin Islands Sailing Vacation
Sailing vacations in the Virgin Islands can be tailored to your style—bareboat, crewed charter, or luxury catamaran. Most trips last 7 to 10 days; itineraries usually include stops at multiple islands. Days are spent sailing for 2–4 hours, snorkeling over coral reefs, paddleboarding, beachcombing, or simply relaxing onboard.
Evenings bring sunset cocktails, fresh seafood dinners, and stargazing from the deck.
Owning vs chartering Catamaran in Caribbean
Chartering a catamaran in Caribbean is a great options for busy people who have a tight schedule and just a few weeks off yearly. Owning a catamaran in the Caribbean is more suited if you:
- plan to use it as an investment in the charter business; you can use it for a few weeks and then charter for the rest of the sailing season. Covering the costs and making the boat a revenue-making machine.
- plan to live aboard or spend significant time on a catamaran Caribbean cruise, making it your home away from home.
Best Time to Sail the Virgin Islands & the Caribbean
The sailing season lasts from November through July, with December to April being the peak sailing period. During this time, trade winds are steady, temperatures range from 77–82°F (25–28°C), and hurricane threats are minimal. If you want to avoid the crowds and have the bays all to yourself, consider avoiding the peak season.
Catamaran Sailing Vacations in British Virgin Islands
Virgin Islands Yacht Broker (VIYB) offers one of the best selections of catamarans for sale in the BVI and the Caribbean. Whether you’re dreaming of a weeklong escape or ready to liveaboard your dream yacht, our expert team is here to guide you every step of the way.
View exclusive listings of sail and power catamarans for sale
Receive personalized advice on yacht ownership & tax benefits
Invest in a charter business in the Caribbean
Your Virgin Islands sailing experience starts with VIYB—look at our current Catamaran for sale offer here!
