BVI Yacht Charter Itinerary Starting and Finishing in Tortola

Tortola, the largest island and the capital from the BVI, offers a special allure for yacht charter guests. The Island has a rich history, full of stories from years of rum running and sugar plantations. If you’re ready to explore all that Tortola—and its surrounding islands—have to offer, then this itinerary is for you!

Day 1 – Tortola

Smugglers Cove, Tortola. Photo by @hanhanbvi

The fastest and easiest way to travel into Tortola is by flying into the island’s main airport, Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS), better known as Beef Island Airport, located on the northeast corner of the island. From there, guests can walk about 100 yards directly from the airport to the pier, where the crew is waiting with the tender to whisk you to your waiting yacht—talk about convenience!

As another option, guests can also take a short taxi ride over to Road Town, which is one of the area’s largest marinas and best locations for dining, shopping, and entertainment. In Road Town, your charter can depart from one of the area’s popular marinas, such as the Inner Harbour or Port Purcell.

Day 2 - Tortola to The Baths, Virgin Gorda

Cane Garden Bay, Tortola. Photo by @hanhanbvi

After a quick 30-minute cruise from Roadtown, you will arrive in Virgin Gorda near The Baths. If you like adventure, this island is well-known for its kiteboarding and hiking. A must-see for charter guests, The Baths is located at the south end of the island and is made up of a maze of huge boulders surrounded by small pools and grottoes.

Day 3 – The Baths to North Sound, Virgin Gorda

The Baths. Photo by @alrivera5

After departing The Baths, you’ll arrive at the northeast side of the island in the North Sound. For the ultimate snorkeling or diving experience, you’ll want to make a stop at Devil’s Bay and Saba Rock—especially if you’re interested in swimming with the local sharks in the area. Also, close by is Leverick Bay and Oil Nut Bay. Of course, you won’t want to call it a day without making a pass by Sir Richard Branson’s infamous Necker Island.

Day 4 – North Sound, Virgin Gorda to Scrub Island

Departing from the northeast side of Virgin Gorda, you’ll head back out into the Caribbean Sea to Scrub Island, a destination known for its spas and other luxurious amenities. Take advantage of this time to explore other smaller islands in the area, such as Guana and Great Camanoe. 

Day 5 – Scrub Island to Jost Van Dyke

Jost Van Dyke. Photo by @alrivera5

The island of Jost Van Dyke is all about leisure, relaxation and…cocktails! There are a number of local watering holes that brag about their infamous “Painkiller with wet money” traditions, a must-try for visitors. Favorites include the Soggy Dollar Bar in White Bay and Foxy’s in Great Harbour, world-renowned for its yacht parties on Halloween and New Year’s Eve. If you’d like to spend a few hours on the beach, head to Cane Garden Bay or visit nearby Sandy Spit island and nature preserve.

Day 6 – Jost Van Dyke to Norman Island

Soggy Dollar Bar White Bay, Jost Van Dyke. Photo by @hanhanbvi

Your next adventure includes sensational snorkeling around the hidden caves and bays that make up Norman Island. This island is rumored to be the real-life inspiration behind “Treasure Island” by famous author Robert Louis Stevenson. The beaches on this island are also great for sunbathing and surfing. After an action-packed day, you’ll definitely want to sit back and relax while you enjoy the picturesque views of Tortola and Peter Island from a popular anchorage called The Bight.

Day 7 – Norman Island to Cooper Island

Cooper Island, Photo by @alton.bertie

Continue your adventures at nearby Cooper Island. This location is particularly enticing for scuba divers thanks to the numerous shipwrecks that can be found below the surface. If you’re not quite ready to dive in, consider kayaking above the wrecks—or, stay ashore and enjoy the beach and boardwalk. 

Day 8 – Cooper Island to Tortola

Cooper Island. Photo by @hanhanbvi

After a short cruise from Norman Island, you’ll arrive back in Tortola. Spend your final day beach-hopping, from Smuggler’s Cove to Apple Bay, Carrot Bay, and Brewer’s Bay, with your last night at Josiah’s Bay Beach. 

Enjoy your last morning with a snorkel and swim before heading back to the airport for your departure.