With more than fifty bays and cays, plus an abundance of anchorages to choose from, it’s no surprise that the British Virgin Islands are listed at the top of the world’s most popular sailing areas. Sailing conditions here are ideal. The right winds, beautiful water and beaches second to none, make this a world class sailing destination.

Novice sailors enjoy the security of knowing that they are very rarely out of sight of land while sailing in the British virgin Islands. There’s nearly always an island a short distance away with a great place to anchor. Perhaps the only time you would be out of sight of land altogether might be if you decided to sail north to Anegada -the drowned island - a truly captivating island, of coral reef beginnings, which is 10 miles long, 2 miles wide but only 28 feet high! Otherwise, you can pick your destinations by looking towards the horizon and deciding which British Virgin Island paradise to explore by yacht next.

Selecting a yacht for your vacation will be full of options. Obviously, the larger the boat you select, the larger the staterooms that will be available to you, with catamarans usually providing the most spacious accommodations. As you might expect, the variety of yachts available for you to charter is considerable - monohulls or catamarans, sailboats or motor charters. You will be able to find something to suit every budget and need.

Your first decision, of course, is whether to choose a crewed charter or go ‘bareboat’. If you choose the latter, then imagine the ultimate sailing experience, with complete freedom and independence. Around the BVI you will be able to safely enjoy line of sight sailing with a reliable breeze and perfect visibility, and few open water hazards.

There are several charter companies in Tortola and the BVI’s to choose from. A little online research will get you off in the right direction. The charter companies based in Tortola will normally require some evidence that the skipper of the vessel has had previous experience. At least one person on the vessel should know what they’re doing! Although certifications are not always mandatory, they are useful.

Some crewed charters offer both a captain and a cook, so that no-one on the journey needs to worry about cooking, cleaning or making sure there is enough ice! When it comes to selecting a crewed charter, the possibilities are very wide. Some companies offer a ‘captain only’ service, with the qualified skipper being totally responsible for the safe operation of the yacht but perhaps needing your assistance with the sailing.

Whatever your charter requirements, there will be companies in Tortola who will not only meet your expectations but far exceed them. Come and discover exactly why Tortola has become one of the world’s favorite sailing and yacht charter hot spots. Chartering a great yacht is the ultimate luxury of the sea; your own private cruise, with nothing to do except relax and watch the Caribbean flow by.

About the Author:
Barry Monteiro is a world traveler specializing in great tropical destination getaways. He enjoys writing about his favorite subjects Tortola Beaches and Tortola Yacht Charters