Explore the Virgin Islands with Burgess

Best season to visit

Weather in the US and British Virgin Islands is at its best from December to April, with a scattering of events, holidays and festivals, including the BVI Spring Regatta in March. But between February and March is the sweet spot, when precipitation is low, cool trade winds still blow, and temperatures reach into the high 20-degrees-celsius.

May to July is the ideal season for those who are hoping to experience the US and British Virgin Islands without hurricanes or crowds. Temperatures increase and winds die down, while quieter streets make it a more relaxing trip with a better chance of appreciating local culture.

August to November is hurricane season, so it’s best to avoid this region or speak to our charter experts who can advise the best areas to visit and how to charter safely during this time.

British Virgin Islands beaches and highlights

Ideal for the waterborne, the British Virgin Islands are a seafarers' haven. A Caribbean volcanic archipelago comprising four main islands and more than 50 smaller isles, the islands have the best of everything from centuries-old ruins to fantastic bays and reefs.

Today the region has become a yachting mainstay, and the islands remain a firm favourite for families with young children and first-time charterers thanks to their steady easterly trade winds and an abundance of sheltered anchorages.

Smuggler's Cove: Tortola

Another favourite on the yachting circuit, Smuggler’s Cove is found on the western coast of the popular island of Tortola. As one of the less crowded beaches in the British Virgin Islands, the secluded splendour of Smuggler’s Cove makes it a particularly special waypoint during your yacht charter.

Snorkelling is especially great here, with a bustling reef teeming with vibrant sea life to keep the whole family enthralled. After an active morning, why not pop over to the legendary Nigel’s beach shack for a glass of the local tipple and a lunchtime snack before you return to your yacht for an afternoon of R&R? Then as the day draws to a close, enjoy dinner under the stars as you sample freshly caught fish from the local waters, grilled by your chef.

Oil Nut Bay

On the eastern tip of Virgin Gorda, the BVI’s third largest island, and spread across 400 pristine acres and embraced by the turquoise Caribbean Sea, is Oil Nut Bay. This exclusive resort offers superb island paradise living, with berths offering day passes for yachting guests to gain access to their Marina Village which includes a restaurant, boutique shopping, and highly personalised service.

Or, extend your charter with a stay at one of their villas and enjoy their world-class facilities and award-winning spa. They also have freehold properties to purchase for those who find themselves returning to this corner of Virgin Gorda time and again.

US Virgin Islands: Top beaches to add to your Caribbean route

For sun-soaked beaches and turquoise waters, the US Virgin Islands are a perfect weekend getaway. Forming part of the Leeward Islands, this cluster of isles offers a gentle sea breeze, beautiful beaches, shallow waters and incredible anchorages.

Magens Bay: St Thomas

Found on the northern shore of St Thomas, the vast white sand of Magens Bay Beach extends an entire mile (1.6km), with water so piercingly turquoise it could feel like a dream. As the archetypal Caribbean waterfront haven, there’s plenty to do both on the water and ashore. Being sheltered by land on three sides, it’s a great spot to enjoy some watersports (think paddleboard yoga or kayak races across the bay).

On land, hike along nature trails to observe the plentiful native wildlife, such as the colourful birds, exotic flora, and mangrove trees. With its well-developed superyacht marina infrastructure and commercial airport, the island of St Thomas is an excellent first stop on your USVI yacht charter.

Trunk Bay: St John

Trunk Bay is located on the north west shore of St John, one of the largest and most developed islands in the US Virgin Islands. Its name comes from the enormous leatherback turtles that are endemic here, which are locally called ‘trunks’.

After saying a quick hello to these residents, be sure to take in the submerged national park at Trunk Bay, donning your mask and fins to explore the Underwater Trail – renowned as one of the best places to snorkel in the entire Caribbean. This 205m underwater path snakes through the calm and shallow waters of Trunk Bay and features informative stone markers that highlight interesting facts about the native sea life and coral structures. Expect to see local fish species like grouper, angelfish, parrotfish, lizardfish, goatfish, snapper and trumpetfish. Keep an eye out for inquisitive sea turtles going about their daily business, too.

Maho Bay: St John

If your visions of the Caribbean conjure up images of bright aquamarine water lapping at a powder-soft sandy shoreline with towering palm trees swaying in the breeze, then Maho Bay Beach in the US Virgin Islands is a dream come true. Known for its population of turtles and rays as well as its stunning views above the surface, St John’s locals frequent Maho Beach Bay just as much as its visitors do.

Quieter than its neighbour Trunk Bay, Maho Bay Beach is the epitome of laid-back Caribbean serenity. The best time to visit is in the morning, when you’re more likely to get the beach to yourself. Swim with the friendly populations of green sea turtles and rays – though be careful not to get too close or touch them. As well as the obvious allure of the beach, be sure not to miss the spectacular views from the America Hill Ruins, which is reached by a challenging hike from nearby Cinnamon Bay. One of the most memorable times to go is at sunset – you will be paid handsomely for your exertions by the jaw-dropping panorama.

Seven day itinerary in the Virgin Islands: From Tortola to St John

We’d recommend at least seven days in the Virgin Islands to truly make the most of your trip. Meet the yacht on Tortola, and from there all the surrounding islands are within easy distance, making a variety of itinerary options or even day trips possible. One of our favourite routes follows a circular navigation around Tortola, taking in the rugged wilderness of Jost Van Dyke and the white seclusion of Anegada.

Whether you’re looking for a trip that’s geared around snorkelling and taking in the underwater marine life or something more relaxing with family, our charter brokers draw on first-hand cruising knowledge to design the perfect Virgin Islands itinerary for you.