First time sailing BVI

CaptChuck · Feb 23, 2009

The BVI is a great place for a first cruise. Everything is line of sight navigation. We used Sunsail and were VERY happy with both the boat and the staff. Saved $$$ vs Moorings. Most charter companies can arrange for you to stay over the first night on the boat. We flew Buffalo, NY to Puerto Rico and on to Tortola. We provisioned our boat. Had most meals aboard but did enjoy some of the local resturants. We are looking forward to chartering again next Spring.

Andy1237 · Feb 23, 2009

Run the archives, there is a lot already on this site.

Joe A · Feb 24, 2009

Great time in BVI

We chartered with the Moorings and had a great time. The staff was courteous and helpful. They will tell you anything about the area that you want to know (as long as you ask) and then set you free. One piece of advice (that you probably already know): Either know how to anchor, or arrive at your next mooring area early to be sure to get a ball. This meant before 3PM when we were there in late March.
At the end of the trip in the van taking us to the ferry I was talking with fellow cruisers about our trips and one guy told me "there was something wrong with my anchor". I knew what he meant even though he didn't, and I was glad I didn't have that problem.

David in Sandusky · Feb 24, 2009

Try a Captain

Moorings is the top of the line for charter companies, that's a good place for your first cruise. If I were going with just the Admiral, I would take one of the lower cost operations. But if I were going with first-timers (I am thinking of my college room-mates, two couples who have never sailed) I would pay extra for the Moorings.

A low cost option for your first time would be to hire a Captain to go with you on the first day. The price is not high, and that way you would have someone to show you the ropes in a relaxed way. They are glad to do it, because it gives them a chance to improve your capabilities, and acquaint you with their cruising grounds.

But do go! It's a great cruising ground, and a lot of fun.

Rob2435 · Feb 24, 2009

Ancoring can be really tough in some spots like Jost Van Dyke, but other than that it's pretty easy going.

jaysweet · Feb 24, 2009

Banooma said:
Any opinions on the Moorings or other Charters?
Any opinions about this as our first cruise?
Any experience or thoughts on scheduling flights?
Should we plan to stay in a BVI hotel the night before and after?
Any meals suggestions?

Sunsail was fine in '07: no major problems. It was a bit of a zoo at the dock, though. Returning the boat, they send a guy over on a dinghy to park it for you, which was a relief given the incredibly tight stern-to docking (even though I dock in a slip all the time at home).

It's a good place for a first time, but you'll probably be surprised at how strong the wind is. A constant 20 knots every day feels like a _lot_ of wind when you're used to the East Coast. Use the mooring balls! And use a bridle running between your two bow cleats to secure to the pennant.

We flew into St. Thomas (cheaper) and took the ferry over. Our first and last nights were in the USVI, and I think this was a good idea, as it was much more relaxed. We stayed at the Green Iguana and Hotel Malfolie. Both were fine, but the Malfolie was high up on the hill-side, and had a spectacular view of the harbor. The restaurants were all fine, but not particularly memorable.

Enjoy

sailordoug · Mar 27, 2009

BVI is my favorite place in the world!! I always use Conch Charters on the other side of Roadtown from Moorings. A smaller charter company and kind of "homey". "Gotta see's" are "the Baths" and North Sound on Virgin Gorda; Little Jost van Dyke; Green Cay; "The Bight" on Norman Island; and if you can swing it, get to Anagada Island and take a taxi to "Cow Wreck Beach" for the afternoon. Get naked (lots of sun screen) and walk for miles alone in paradise. Man, I need to get back there.

Ken Prichard · Mar 28, 2009

We Use CONCH

Older boats but reliable and clean. Great staff. Best bang for your buck IMHO.