US & British Virgin Islands

The Virgin Islands should be everyone's choice for a first charter. It is without a doubt, the most popular cruising area in the world.- St-. Thomas and St. John in the U.S. Virgins, plus Tortola and the multitude of surrounding islands of the BVI, are all within close proximity to one another. The variety of anchorages and the great number of diving and snorkeling sites can easily be incorporated into a one-week itinerary.

The visibility for snorkeling and diving is excellent. Water sports abound, including windsurfing water skiing, wake boarding, ski tubing, kite boarding, and more. Jet skis and wet bikes are banned in BVI waters; likewise in National Parks areas in St. John.

Island tours are worth doing on Virgin Gorda, and a rather strenuous trail through the boulders at the Baths is a must. This can be done from the yacht or from land. Two thirds of St. John is National Park, with some of the prettiest beaches in the Caribbean.

The VI are blessed with nearly perfect conditions year round. During the winter months the prevailing wind is from the NE at 15-20 kts. The fabled "Christmas Winds" (Dec. to Mar.) can produce winds of 23-35kts. for several days at a time. Temperatures average 75-85 degrees year-round. Detailed weather info is available at www.caribwx.com/climate.html

More info at:
www.usvitourism.vi
www.bviwelcome.com

Find much more information and sample itineraries at Distincive Yachts