The Virgin Islands - Sailors Paradise

Did you know that the water in the Virgin Islands is sparkling turquoise? The sky is crispy cobalt? The occasional cloud is fleecy white? The sun is happy yellow? The beaches are sugary ivory and the crew are deliciously tan?

The only real way to capture the color and romance of the Virgin Islands is to see for yourself! However, we've decided to give you a sneak preview, so please read on…

The Virgin Islands lie in the West Indies about 40 miles east of Puerto Rico. The typical Virgin Islands cruising area extends from St Thomas to the west to Virgin Gorda to the east, a distance of approximately 45 miles. The Atlantic Ocean meets our island chain on the north side, and the Caribbean Sea borders us on the south side. The larger islands within this area are: St Thomas, St John, Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Norman Island, Cooper Island, Peter Island, and Virgin Gorda. There are many smaller and lesser known islands and cays. Just outside of this area are St Croix to the south, Culebra to the west, and Anegada to the north. Except for Anegada, the islands were born from volcanic activity, which means they are mountainous and picturesque. The beaches are white, sandy beaches, and coral reefs are active with abundant marine life.

Sailing here is easy! Since the islands are close together, you'll be "island hopping". Navigation is by line-of-sight. The water is clear and you can usually see the bottom. Changes in the color of the water will also tell you a great deal about the depth and nature of the bottom. There is a minimal tidal variation (approximately 18" max) and no fog! The rain showers come and go, keeping the islands green. There is minimal commercial traffic compared to many areas you may sail. The people speak English and the currency is the U.S. dollar.

Where the weatherman gets bored!   The Virgins are famous for year round cruising. The temperature ranges from 80's in winter to 90's in summer. The sea temperatures hover at 80, plus or minus just a hair. The prevailing winds are the tradewinds (from the east).

There's a slight wind shift to the north in winter with wind speeds of 15 - 20 knots. In the summer, the winds shift to east south east and blow10 - 15 knots. Christmas Winds are stronger winds that may blow for several days at a time, anytime from December through February. There really is no rainy season. We usually have short bursts of showers and blue sky follows.

Hurricane season - Due to the world's recent weather patterns, keeping an eye out for storms is a concern in areas that fall in the Hurricane belt. CYOA does not charter in the most likely months that these storms may pass (September and October). Though it is just as likely the weather may be perfect, we do not recommend planning a once in a lifetime vacation during this period of time.

CYOA will assist with your itinerary planning. Since we know the area intimately, and have sampled many of the snorkeling spots, over night anchorages and on-island offerings, we'll be happy to make suggestions for what to do! Limein'  is a favorite past time. When you get here, you'll learn all about it!

Island customs are important to be familiar with. If you understand a little about the people here, you will have a better time. These are low key islands where the pace is slow. People are laid back. Be dignified and respectful of their home. Slow yourself down. Leave the hurried, rushed, competitive elements of your own life behind, and better yet leave your laptop and cell phone home too! Slow down and relax - that's what vacation is about. Dress is casual, BUT please wear cover-ups in town, no bathing suits or micro-outfits, as you will not impress anyone. They are not appreciated. Save the skimpy outfits for the beach or your boat.

    Customs and immigration - Since you will be visiting U.S. and British Islands, a passport is the best document for identification. U.S. citizens may use 2 forms of ID: a certified birth certificate and official photo ID or a passport. Please be sure you put this item on a checklist along with your plane tickets. U.S. citizens do not need to clear out of the U.S. when heading to the BVI. Everyone must clear into the BVI upon entering. This is done in West End Tortola or Great Harbor, Jost Van Dyke. Proper attire is required for visiting the Customs and Immigration office. All charter boats, regardless of origination pay a cruising tax in the BVI. You should budget this at $40pp/week and $50 for the vessel for the cruise. There are several elements that make up the cruising tax and that is why it is estimated. When returning to the U.S., a stop is necessary at U.S. customs. This is in Cruz Bay, St John. A stop for customs and immigration clearance usually is about 30 minutes and the locations are in spots that are enjoyable to visit.