Jost Van Dyke Archives

July 18, 2020July 22, 2020

Jost Van Dyke Scuba

If you’ve walked through Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke, you’ve probably seen Jost Van Dyke Scuba. Located between the Methodist Church and Corsair’s you’ll find their shop – newly built since the hurricanes of ’17. The shop is air conditioned and the largest shop on JVD and offers a full array of dive and snorkel gear, 60 original T-Shirt designs- designed here on Jost, and name brand lines like Costa Del Mar sunglasses, Corkcicle, SunBum, Suncloud, Pelagic Gear, Cobian sandals, Chums, Tiki Toss, Cablz, Sun & Sand, and many fashionable women’s beachwear lines. Additionally the Jost Van Dyke Scuba Shop offers equipment rentals such as snorkeling and scuba gear, SUP boards, kayaks & fishing equipment.

(This article is part of our “Local Businesses of the Caribbean” series. Find out more at the end of this article.)

We’ve walked by Jost Van Dyke Scuba many times and stopped in on occasion (thank goodness that they also carry sunscreen and bug spray!) but really didn’t know the extent of the services they offered until doing some research for this article. Read on to find out what they do above and beyond scuba gear and excursions!

Scuba School. Jost Van Dyke Scuba additionally offers a scuba school. Says the owner, Capt. Colin Aldridge, “We are a PADI 5 Star Dive Center and the only dive shop on Jost. We teach all levels of diving up to Assistant Instructor and are also the only SCUBA company diving the North side on the BVI. We’ve discovered, named and charted over 40 World Class Dive Sites that no one dives but us. We have been filmed by National Geographic, Discovery Channel, Water Channel, Dive Zero, SCUBA Diving Magazine and many others because our dive sites are so off the beaten path and hold big animal life and unmolested healthy corals!”

For those that already are diving enthusiasts, you can set up a diving excursion with Jost Van Dyke Scuba to some of the ‘must see” dive sites visited only by them. Read about some of these sites here.

BVI-Eco Tours. Capt. Colin started BVI Eco-Tours 20 years ago along with Jost Van Dyke Scuba. Some of the Eco-Tours offered include JVD by Sea, Norman Island Snorkeling Safari, and a Virgin Gorda Eco-Adventure.

Private and Group Powerboat Charter and Fishing Charters. Additionally, for non-divers or families, they run Private and Group Powerboat Charters all over the BVI for snorkeling, site seeing, island hopping AND deep sea fishing charters!

Calypso Day Sails. And if that doesn’t keep him busy enough, Capt. Colin also added Calypso Day Sails to the services he offers about 8 years ago. Calypso is the only Day Sail Yacht on Jost Van Dyke: a 45ft Robertoson and Caine Leopard certified for groups of up to 24 people. Book a day sail on the luxurious yacht, or inquire about other sailing options such as sunset cruises, dinner cruises and overnight charters!

Upcoming Online Shop. Jost Van Dyke Scuba is currently working on an online store and hope to have it up and running in August, so check back then to see their online merchandise offerings. Their beautiful wall art can already be purchased by calling or emailing them.

So, who is Capt. Colin? Colin Aldridge moved to the Caribbean 32 years ago, got a Captains license, and started running Sailing Yacht Charters and yacht deliveries all over the World. He’s lived on sailboats most of his life, and is an avid fisherman and Sportfishing Captain as well. Colin is a single father of two kids from Jost who are 14 and 11. He and his children are serious farmers here on Jost, owning and working the Laid-Back Farm on the East End of the island.

Be sure to stop by to talk to Capt. Colin and his crew while visiting JVD and call ahead for more info or questions about services you are interested in at 1.757.287.2731 (USA cell) or 1.284.443.2222 (BVI cell). You can also reach Jost Van Dyke Scuba by email at [email protected].

For additional information, check their website and follow them on Facebook and Instagram!

Keep up to date on re-opening dates and requirements for the BVI here.

Many locally owned businesses are being hit hard right now due to restricted tourist traffic during the pandemic. Hoping to help in any way we can, we are highlighting some great local businesses that we hope you will enjoy learning about and may want to visit once we are able to travel to the beautiful islands once again… Some of these businesses also offer merchandise that you can order, gift certificates and pre-booking options. Be sure to contact them for additional info and watch for more articles soon!

BVI SNUBA, Virgin Gorda
Ocean Spa, BVI
Top of the Baths, Virgin Gorda
Daniel Johnson’s Monkey and Sloth Hangout, Roatan

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC
All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.

July 6, 2020February 27, 2024

Ocean Spa BVI, Jost Van Dyke

Anchored off the coast of Jost Van Dyke in White Bay, the floating Ocean Spa BVI is the first of its kind in the British Virgin Islands. “It’s the only spa that I know of where brightly colored tropical fish swim under your massage table,” says Dale Mapp, the spa’s owner and creator.

(This is the 2nd article in our “Local Businesses of the Caribbean” series. Find out more at the end of this article.)

Ocean Spa BVI in White Bay, Jost Van Dyke, British Virgin Islands

Ocean Spa BVI opened for business in the fall of 2018 but it wasn’t without a few bumps in the road. After 25 years in hospitality industry, Dale initially came up with the idea of a floating spa about 10 years ago. He began to research how to make the idea a reality and began building a version of the floating spa in 2009 on a different island. Unfortunately that one never quite got off the ground.

His dream of building a floating spa remained on his mind and after relocating to the British Virgin Islands, he began building a new structure. Then, in 2017 came Hurricane Irma. Dale had to start his structure from scratch – again, but this time he used salvaged wood, metal and other material left in the wake of the devastating hurricane.

Ocean Spa BVI now rocks gently in the beautiful blue water of White Bay and offers massages in the easy ocean breezes and the gentle waves. Enjoy a Champagne Moonlight Couples Massage , a Private Spa Party or one of the other relaxing offerings.

Although the road to get here was not easy, Dale reflects on the trying times with calmness saying, “Beauty comes in many forms, and out of the most dire circumstances. Storms don’t always come to disrupt our lives – they come to clear a path for us also.”

Gift Certificates are available for purchase! Contact Ocean Spa BVI at (284)340-0772 or email them at [email protected] . Check out their website here: Ocean Spa BVI as well as their Facebook page and Instagram too!

Many locally island owned businesses are being hit hard right now due to restricted tourist traffic during the pandemic. Hoping to help in any way we can, we are highlighting some great local businesses that we hope you will enjoy learning about and may want to visit once we are able to travel to the beautiful islands once again… Some of these businesses also offer merchandise that you can order, gift certificates and pre-booking options. Be sure to contact them for additional info and watch for more articles soon!

BVI SNUBA, Virgin Gorda
Ocean Spa, BVI
The View and More from Top Of the Baths, Virgin Gorda
Jost Van Dyke Scuba
Daniel Johnson’s Monkey and Sloth Hangout, Roatan

photos courtesy of Ocean Spa BVI

February 4, 2019September 25, 2019

Barhopping on Jost Van Dyke, Part 2 (after Irma)

In 2012, we wrote an article called “Barhopping on Jost Van Dyke“. We were lucky enough to stay on “The Barefoot Island” for a week that year and wanted to share info on all of the amazing bars on the island. Apparently a lot of people love JVD or want to know more about it, as the article has been one of the most visited articles on our website! Fast forward to 2019. Ivan’s built a new bar in 2014, there was the addition of a new bar on White Bay called Hendo’s Hideout in 2016, and then there was Irma…and Maria. Lots of changes to this beautiful island in the last few years!

We visited the island 6 months after Irma, the strongest hurricane to ever strike the BVI and again in January 2019. Althought there are things that are forever changed on the island of Jost Van Dyke, it is still one of the best beach/beach bar destinations in the Caribbean.

Starting on the west side of White Bay, this is what we saw during our latest visit to Jost Van Dyke.

*New Picnic/Bar Area for Cruise Ship Visitors*

On the far west side of White Bay (next to One Love), a new picnic/bar area has been built to accommodate cruise ship traffic. Although we are told it is locally owned, the architecture is a more modern than the surrounding structures. I’m sure it’s a great place for cruise traffic, but looks a bit out of place.

One Love Bar & Grill has rebuilt, is looking good and has retained it’s original character. We didn’t catch Seddy there this trip, but sure enjoyed a rum punch (or two!) Look for the Rum Therapy decal! They are known for their lobster quesadillas and Bushwackers, but we thought they had a pretty bomb rum punch too.

Next, Coco Loco Beach Bar. Looks like a great place to relax and escape the crowds that tend to congregate farther down on the beach. A good lunch menu, a few beach loungers and highly rated for its friendliness. Try the fish tacos and Coco Loco Whackers.

Gertrude’s Beach Bar is looking good. Rebuilt, colorful and a bunch of beach chairs out front. It is said that Gertrude’s has the best Chicken Roti on island. We will be back to test out that theory, but definitely worth a stop by to pour your own drink, have a chat with Gertrude and to enjoy a quieter pace and the beautiful white sand of White Bay.

The Soggy Dollar Bar. Although nearly wiped out (check out the photo book on the table next to the bar), Soggy Dollar is back. As popular as ever, be sure to check out their signature Painkiller, originated and perfected at the Soggy Dollar in the 1970’s, a Nilla Killa, Raspberry Therapy, or if you’re really feeling, uh, thirsty, a Soggy Man. Apparently the Sandcastle will not be rebuilt next door. In it’s place, a new rum tasting area is being built and will probably be the place to sample and purchase the new Soggy Dollar Rum to take home!

We first noticed a new bar emerging on White Bay during a day visit in November 2015. Hendo’s Hideout has now been open for a few years (and fared better than some during the hurricanes). Hendo’s is a beautiful dark wood structure with appealing bright orange beach chairs to to soak up the JVD sunshine. Hendo’s offers a delicious lunch and dinner menu. Try the Rum & Coke Pulled Pork and a Delirious Donkey or Hendo’s Helldiver to wash it down.

Time to walk over the rocky outcrop towards Ivan’s Stress Free Bar. Much of the path is still there – minus a step or two at the end on Ivan’s side. Be sure to wear shoes or flip flops!

*Escape Villa (on the left) and Glass House*

Before reaching Ivan’s, we were surprised to see two new buildings. One is Escape Villa and the other is Glass House. Apparently both are luxury, beachfront homes on the west side of Ivan’s and available to rent. Find out more on their websites: Escape Villa and Glass House.

Ivan’s Stress Free Bar sustained an incredible amount of damage. When we visited 6 months after Irma, there was nothing left of the campground and only a temporary structure for a bar. So unfortunate given Ivan had just built a beautiful new 2 story bar in 2014(?) because the old bars foundation was settling and he wanted his customers to be safe. All that is left of the new bar now is the foundation. Ivan has built a smaller bar next to it, but unfortunately we were unable to find out any more about his future plans. Be sure to head down to that side of White Bay when you visit to show Ivan some support. The beach is still beautiful and the drinks are nice and cold.

On the far side of Ivan’s is Pink House Villas – 2 separate villas available to rent. Find their website here.

Time to walk over the hill to Great Harbour. When we stayed on-island, we took this strenuous walk several times. We thought perhaps it would balance the number of calories we were ingesting in rum and great food from the local restaurants. Unfortunately we still gained weight… There are, however, taxis that will pick you up and take you over the hill for about $5 per person.

Great Harbour looks so different since the hurricane(s). The yellow church is still in shambles and the beach lost most of its vegetation. Surprisingly though, the view of the beautiful beach is in my opinion, better, and some of the bars are rightly taking advantage of the “new view”.

Jost Van Dyke Scuba is open again and sells sunscreen. Yep. We left ours in our room on Tortola…

The first bar heading east is Corsair’s. Owner Vinnie was busy rebuilding the bar when we visited last year, but it is now open and looking good! Corsair’s still offers Wench Juice and a Pirate Sandwich, but don’t overlook the other fantastic breakfast, lunch and dinner offerings – delicious! Vinnie and his bar may have a tough exterior, but he is a genuinely nice guy. Best to call for reservations if you are planning to have dinner here. From your boat, you can dinghy right to shore in front of Corsair’s.

Next, Ali Baba’s. In all honesty, we haven’t spent a lot of time at Ali Baba’s, but apparently there are a lot of people that enjoy the food and hospitality. On the list to visit next trip! If you’ve had a good experience at Ali Baba’s – tell us about it!

Cool Breeze Bar & Restaurant. This is the first time we’ve noticed this restaurant in a prime location on Great Harbour although the reviews date back to 2013. Not sure if it just looks different than before or under a new name, but somehow we’ve missed it on previous visits. During this visit, we stopped by around 10 and thought we’d order a cup of coffee, but the nice young man said that no one was there to serve yet, so we moved on. Island time perhaps?

Foxy’s Tamarind Bar. Part of Foxy’s bar/restaurant made it through the hurricane(s), including a sticker we put up in 2015. He has re-built a new bar out front of the restaurant and the dock was rebuilt as well. The store is open again. Foxy was back playing the guitar and singing a song or two while visitors circled around. Judging by the crowds later in the day, the word is out that Foxy’s is open again for business!

We didn’t personally make it past Great Harbour this trip, but here is some current info on Little Harbour restaurants & bars and Foxy’s Taboo in Diamond Cay.

Sydney’s Peace & Love was the first restaurant to re-open in Little Harbour. This was no little feat as Irma deposited a ferry boat on top of their restaurant! The ribs and lobster are always delicious and you can serve yourself at the honor bar!

When we visited Jost Van Dyke 6 months after the storms, we were devistated to motor in to Little Harbour and find Harris’s Place completely destroyed. Years ago, we had met Cynthia, the owner, on a ferry over to JVD. She said if we didnt already have plans, to come to her place for dinner. We took her up on it and had the loveliest evening, an amazing lobster dinner and incredibly tasty Bushwackers made by Cynthia herself! From what we hear, Cynthia just opened Harris’s Place again. Don’t know if the menu is the same as before, but knowing Cynthia, it’s all good!

Abe’s By the Sea. We’ve not had the chance to visit Abe’s in person yet, but hope to on our next visit. According to the grapevine, Abe’s is open again, although still rebuilding. Once we visit, we’ll be sure to report on the “must try” food and drink and in the meantime, if you’ve been to Abe’s, let us know what you enjoyed about it!

Now over to Diamond Cay. Foxy’s Taboo is open again! According to the news we’ve recieved, Taboo recently opened and had a grand re-opening party on New Years Day this year.

There you have it! Jost Van Dyke has recovered so well, although I’m sure it will take years to repair and refinish some of the things that Irma took away. We hope to spend a week on Jost again soon. Do you have plans to visit?

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC. All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.

June 12, 2017April 20, 2021

Best Beaches of the British Virgin Islands

The British Virgin Islands, a chain of islands well known as a premiere sailing destination, seem to have more than its fair share of stunning beaches as well. We’ve been asked by many to recommend our favorite BVI beach and well, it’s hard to even narrow it down to our favorite 5 – and I’m quite sure there are still more to discover. All of the beaches listed below are beautiful in their own way and we’ve enjoyed the time we’ve been able to spend on each one. Really though, if you’re on any beach in the BVI, you are one lucky beach bum.

Best Beaches of the British Virgin Islands

Deadman’s Beach/Little Deadman’s Beach, Peter Island

The Baths, Virgin Gorda
(see more here)

Spring Bay, Virgin Gorda

Little Dix Bay, Virgin Gorda

Savannah Bay, Virgin Gorda
(see more here)

Cow Wreck Beach, Anegada
(see more here)

Loblolly Bay, Anegada
(see more here)

White Bay, Jost Van Dyke
(see more here)

Sandy Cay, British Virgin Islands
(see more here)

Sandy Spit, British Virgin Islands
(see more here)

Cane Garden Bay
(see more here)

Smuggler’s Cove, Tortola
(see more here)

Long Bay , Tortola
(see more here)

How many of these beautiful BVI beaches have you had a chance to visit? Tell us about it!

To see more posts on Tortola and other islands, check out our Island Blog Directory

All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC

January 6, 2016September 25, 2019

Foxy’s School of Music

Update: Foxy’s School f Music was irreparably damaged during the hurricanes of 2017, but has re-built and recently re-opened since our last visit.

As we previously mentioned in our post about a new business called Foxy’s Charters started by Foxy Callwood of Jost Van Dyke in the British Virgin Islands, Foxy is a busy man. He not only owns two bars on the island, Foxy’s and Foxy’s Taboo, and the new business Foxy’s Charters, he is active in preserving the culture and heritage of the beautiful island he calls his home. He was instrumental in founding the Jost Van Dyke Preservation Society to further the education, monitoring and protection of the areas environment and wildlife and has recently started a new venture intended to serve the children of the Jost Van Dyke community and encourage enrichment in a topic near and dear to Foxy’s heart – music.

Anyone lucky enough to visit Foxy’s while Foxy was present has probably been treated to a little of his music. Seen frequently with his guitar, Foxy has been known to sing improvised calypso-esque ballads, many times creating off-the-cuff lyrics about his guests, where they’re from and humorous tidbits about their state or country. So – it makes complete sense that Foxy has begun a new venture designed to entice children on Jost Van Dyke to explore music and encourage budding musicians through a program called Foxy’s School of Music.

On a recent visit to Foxy’s, David Dietrich treated us to a tour of this new facility, opened in March of 2015. Located behind Foxy’s, the dome structure houses a variety of instruments, from drums to violins.

Foxy’s School of Music is open several days a week to the local children (of which there are approximately 43) and is a place they can gather to experiment with music, play music together and take lessons from volunteers.

Several other music lovers and musicians have lent a hand in the creation of this venue, including Tony Martin form “Just Right Music”, Kebbi Williams, a Grammy Award Winning Saxophone Player, William Barnes – composer, producer and musician and Michael Beans – a local musician who performed his famous “Happy Arrr Pirate Show” at the opening ceremonies.

This year, the child who works the hardest at learning how to play their instrument of choice will be awarded with a trip to the annual Music In the Park Event in Atlanta, Georgia held by Kebbie Williams.

photo courtesy of Foxy’s School of Music

Anyway you look at it, Foxy’s School of Music is a win-win situation. It’s a program that will certainly benefit the local children of Jost Van Dyke and a program that could be creating another wonderful musician like Foxy himself.

If you’d like to donate to this great program, contact them via email at [email protected], or if you will be visiting Foxy’s in the near future, there is a donation box between the bar and the Foxhole.

To see more posts on Jost Van Dyke and other islands, check out our Island Blog Directory

December 10, 2015September 25, 2019

The New Ivan’s Stress Free Bar

Update: Unfortunately, a few years after Ivan completed construction on his new bar, it was destroyed by the hurricanes of 2017. This is what it looked like during our last visit. The small building on the left is the current bar and we have not heard anything yet about Ivan’s plans to rebuild either the bar or the campground.

We loved Ivan’s Stress Free Bar on Jost Van Dyke the moment we first walked through the shell lined doors in 2010. It just had that unique, funky beach bar vibe that drew you in. Not polished, not shiny – it had sandy floors and shell art everywhere, including a very unique shell man standing watch out front. And then there was Ivan. The bars namesake/owner/proprietor was walking around, making sure his guests were having a nice time. Each subsequent visit was as enjoyable as the first.

Fast forward to 2014 when we heard that Ivan had made the very difficult decision to take down the old bar to pour a new foundation which had been sinking and possibly a danger to his guests. Although we understood, we were a bit saddened that the old bar would be gone.

Last month we had the chance to go back to Jost Van Dyke and spend a little time at the new Ivan’s. Here are some photos from that day.

Did the new bar have the same feeling as the old Ivan’s? No, definitely not. But, with time, the floor will get sandier and the shell art will fill up the walls again. Ivan’s still has Ivan, delicious drinks, a spectacular beach – and the view from the new deck is great! It still has friendly people and some of the old memorabilia. In time, we’ll all get used to the new building and begin to love it like we did the old bar. After all, it still is Ivan’s…

Have you been to the new bar? Tell us about it!

To see more Jost Van Dyke and other island posts, check out our Island Blog Directory

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC. All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.

October 22, 2015April 24, 2021

5 Favorite Scenic Overlooks in the Caribbean

It was a challenge to select just 5 of our favorite Scenic Overlooks in the Caribbean – even after narrowing the criteria to those that included water views, but these are 5 of our favorites from our travels to date. Feel free to add some of your favorites in the comments below!

View of Magens Bay, St. Thomas from Drakes Seat.
Legend has it that Sir Francis Drake used this vantage point to keep an eye out for enemy ships.

Check out other island posts here: Island Blog Directory

Overlook of Gustavia, St. Barts – one of the most colorful overlooks in the Caribbean. It’s well worth a short hike on a nice path to enjoy this view.

From this perch high atop Virgin Gorda at Hog Heaven, you can see the entire North Sound including Leverick Bay, Saba Rock, Bitter End Yacht Club, Prickly Pear Island, Necker Island and on a clear day, a very faint sliver of Anegada.

Overlook of Trunk Bay, St. John.
One of the most photographed overlooks in the Caribbean; the sight of Trunk Bay from this spot nearly takes your breath away and gives you a taste of the beauty that lies ahead.

The overlook of White Bay, Jost Van Dyke is absolutely picture perfect. It’s really rather hard to take a bad picture of this beautiful bay!

What are your favorite Caribbean scenic overlooks? Tell us about them!

Check out other island posts here: Island Blog Directory

Copyright©Rum Therapy
Pictures and other content may not be re-used without written consent from Rum Therapy, LLC. All information is correct to our knowledge at the time of writing, but be sure to verify current information before your visit.

October 12, 2015September 25, 2019

Foxy’s Charters

Have you heard? Foxy Callwood, the 7th generation Jost Van Dyker, musician, entertainer, humanitarian and host extraordinaire at his world famous bar, Foxy’s, has opened a new business designed to give guests visiting the Virgin Islands the opportunity to enjoy even more of the beautiful islands.

photo: www.photo.vi

Foxy now offers a variety of adventures through his company Foxy’s Charters. Find out some of the options offered below.

photo: www.photo.vi

Private Boat Charters
Set up a charter on his 12-passenger, 38 foot extra wide power cruiser called “Foxy’s Excellent Adventure” and spend the day exploring Jost van Dyke, the soft sand beaches of White Bay or Sandy Cay, snorkel the Caves of Norman Island, or enjoy yourself at the Baths in Virgin Gorda – the possibilities are endless.

photo: www.photo.vi

Sunset Cruises
Imagine sipping delicious rum drinks while watching an amazing sunset from the water…

photo: www.photo.vi

Water Taxi Service
Need a ride to Jost Van Dyke? Check out his Water Taxi Service that can arrange to pick you up in the USVI or BVI. After hours service to and from Tortola and Jost van Dyke is also available.

Watersports
Daytime Kayak Rental: Rent a clear bottom kayak and enjoy skimming around Great Harbour while scoping out the sea life below.

photo: www.photo.vi

photo: www.photo.vi

Guided Night Kayak Tours: Cruise the waters of Great Harbour at night during a night time kayak tour. See a variety of fish, turtles and rays through your clear bottom kayak illuminated with LED lights!

photo: Foxy’s Charters

Find Foxy’s Charters on the beach in front of Foxy’s Tamarind Bar in Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke. Contact them to set up your Excellent Charter Adventure, Sunset Tour, Water Taxi Service or Watersports Adventure at
1-284-546-1904 or [email protected]

Foxy’s Charters Website

Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram too!

September 13, 2015September 25, 2019

Sunday Serenity: First Tracks on White Bay

Lately when we talk about White Bay or Jost Van Dyke, everybody seems to have been there or has it on their “list”. With it’s stunning beauty and a plethora of great beach bars, Jost Van Dyke has been discovered.

But along with its fame comes crowds. Ever been on White Bay on a sunny afternoon in high season? Yep, it can be busy.

We had the pleasure of staying on-island in the White Bay Villas & Seaside Cottages for a week a couple of years ago. One of our favorite memories about being on White Bay early in the day or late in the evening when the day crowds go home? It’s so quiet…

During our week on JVD we got up early every morning and walked White Bay. Being from Colorado originally, we equated being the first to walk the beach in the morning as being the first one down a ski slope in the morning after a fresh dusting of snow. First tracks. Except warmer. Best thing about that? All we could hear was waves gently lapping the shore and seagulls calling…peaceful.

Of course we usually headed back down to the beach later in the day for the party and a Painkiller or two…

Find more Sunday Serenity posts here:
Tropical Tips & More

To see more island posts, check out our Island Blog Directory

July 22, 2014September 25, 2019

Sailing the British Virgin Islands on a Crewed Charter, Part 3

Wow – we were already 4 days in to our sailing vacation. How time flies when you’re having so much fun – well, and a little rum!

We woke this morning to this view of Great Harbour from our porthole…

copyright Rum Therapy — Morning view of Great Harbour from our porthole

After a delicious breakfast of eggs, fresh pastries and fresh fruit prepared by our lovely cook, we dinghied to Great Harbour to explore just a little more. We then set sail for our next destination, Guana Island, and passed stunning Sandy Cay along the way.

After Sandy Cay, we enjoyed a very nice sail around Tortola, passing by some of the harder to reach beaches on Tortola’s North side such as Trunk Bay, Josiah’s Bay and Lambert Bay.

Passing beautiful White Bay on Guana Island, we pulled into Monkey Point, where we spent a few hours snorkeling at one of the best spots on the trip. Here we saw very large tarpon (at least 3 ft!) and schools and schools of small brightly colored minnows.

Next stop – North Sound, Virgin Gorda.

We docked that night at colorful Leverick Bay (see more about Leverick Bay here), which allowed us to easily get off the boat and explore the area.

We’d been to Leverick several times in the past, but were never there to enjoy the “singing pirate”, Michael Bean at Jumbies…that is until this time!

It was a fun show – lots of singing, pirate shenanigans and rum punch and we enjoyed Jumbies until the sun went down.

We were welcomed back on the boat with a delicious Happy Arrr of our own. Every evening our crew would prepare a delicious round of lite hors d’oeuvres and a “drink of the day”. Tonight’s drink? A strawberry daiquiri with fresh mint…yum…

Day 5 we awoke with anticipation of a sail to “the drowned island” – Anegada.

Lying approximately 15 miles north of Virgin Gorda, this island just doesn’t look like the others in the BVI chain. Only 28 ft at it’s highest point, it’s flat topography is far different from the other islands. Anegada is surrounded by coral reefs and hundreds of shipwrecks and it takes an experienced captain to safely navigate the sail in – and we were very happy to leave this task in our capable captains hands (another benefit of a crewed charter!)

At about 2 hours, the sail to Anegada was the longest of the trip. It was a gorgeous sunny day with enough wind for a decent sail, but smooth enough that we could do this….

And a little more of this…

Until we started to get close to Anegada and the water looked like this.

Once safely anchored in Setting Point, we dinghied to shore, rented an open cab truck for the day and set off exploring.

If you’ve yet to visit Anegada, let me tell you, it should be called “Ahhh”negada! The beaches, although devoid of a lot of foliage or palm trees, are simply spectacular. It’s almost hard to describe the water color – electric maybe? First stop – the beach north of Pomato Point.

And not another soul around….

We drove on a short way to Cow Wreck Beach and Beach Bar. We could have easily spent a few days here. Great beach – fun beach bar! Find out more about our visit to Cow Wreck here. After an hour or two we pressed on – intent on seeing as much as possible and landed on Loblolly Bay.

Here we enjoyed some good snorkeling and a beverage at the Big Bamboo Beach Bar.
Read more about our visit to Loblolly here.

Totally sun and salt water drenched, we made our way back to Setting Point and then our boat to enjoy our “drink of the day”, while watching yet another amazing sunset.

And to top this excellent day off, we cleaned up and went ashore for a Lobster dinner at Potter’s by the Sea. Man, I could get really used to this!

Stay tuned for Sailing the British Virgin Islands on a Crewed Charter Part 4, the last couple of days, where we visit The Baths, snorkel The Rhone and spend time on Peter Island.

In case you missed them:
Sailing the British Virgin Islands on a Crewed Charter Part 1
Sailing the British Virgin Islands on a Crewed Charter Part 2

To find out more about a Crewed Charter Sailing Vacation with Festiva, contact them through their website:
Festiva Sailing Vacations

And follow them on Facebook:
Festiva Sailing Vacations