British Virgin Islands Adventure Travel Guide

Introducing British Virgin Islands (Continued...)

ish weather: the sunshine is unrelenting and dazzling.
With so many islands to discover and enchanting sights to see, curiosity is your new best friend.
There are four main islands, but the most dominant is the largest, Tortola. Tortola is the not only the largest but also the most populous. It is the hub of all the commerce here, leading to a mixture of vibrant personalities and bustling conservative business. Certainly it is the most developed island and you won’t see as much natural beauty: it has been traded in for an entertaining nightlife and thriving towns.
Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke are perfect Caribbean contrasts. The former is a tranquil destination, ideal for relaxation. The latter is flamboyant and vibrant, and famously home to the “Painkiller” rum cocktail.
Anegada is different. It is an extremely flat coral island steeped in natural beauty, and whilst it is the second largest, it is very sparsely populated.
The climate is sub-tropical and typically the beaches are bathed in sun for much of the year. The cooling trade winds not only suppress the heat, but also help create the perfect sailing conditions.

Kitesurfing

Ask a kitesurfer about the ideal conditions for the sport, and they will tell you: strong but steady winds and consistent, elevated waves. But this could also be a description of the BVI coastline. Kitesurfing is one of the fastest growing watersports, and this Caribbean paradise has some of the best spots in the world.
For beginners there are numerous schools to be found on the main island Tortola, whilst travelling to remote Anegada may be best left to those with a little more experience. Somewhere on the BVI there will be a spot for you.
It’s no surprise that billionaire, and kitesurfing enthusiast Sir Richard Branson owns a private island here that he regularly uses to indulge in his favourite extreme hobby.

Sailing

The Caribbean Sea stretches out before you; a turquoise canvas interrupted only by the sights of distant islets waiting for you to explore. There is a very good reason that sailors flock to the BVI, and you don’t have to look any further than the tranquil seas and captivating views.
BVI can be the perfect place if you want to learn to sail. The water is uniformly calm, and the islands are heaving with experienced boatmen willing to share their skills.
Alternatively, if you’d rather come here for the relaxation you can float around enjoying the diverse landscapes and appreciate nature at its finest.

Scuba Diving

The clear water and wealth of spectacular underwater sights make scuba diving a must in the Caribbean. In particular the BVI has a reputation as one of the most attractive and distinct ocean locations to explore. There are shipwrecks sitting serenely on the seabed, and pretty coral reefs teeming with marine life.
One of the most beautiful locations can be found close to Dead Chest Island, and is known as Painted Walls. The rocks appear to be tinted with a spectrum of colours, matched only by the eye-catching fish and rays that live here.
There are diving opportunities here suitable for every level of participant. You can build up confidence snorkelling in the shallows, or kit up in full scuba gear and delve into the lively depths.

Yachting

Yachts are commonplace on the BVI. It the only way to see the natural wonders outside of the large main islands, and probably the most relaxing way to get around anyway. Set off from the port of Tortola and glide over the still water to wherever takes your fancy. Because of layout of the BVI, dry land will never be so distant to be unnerving, but there is plenty of open water to enjoy the freedom.
You can also learn the basics of sailing here too. It is a great location not only due the fantastic conditions, but also due to the rewarding views that your learning will accord you.

Classic Itineraries

Flying direct to the BVI is difficult. You’ll probably end up having to transfer in Puerto Rico, or flying to the US Virgin Islands and coming over by boat. Either way you’ll probably find yourself reaching Tortola, the largest and most developed island. Tortola is somewhat commercial, but has a friendly charm you won’t forget.
Next, you’ll probably head the little distance south to Virgin Gorda. It’s a haven of natural beauty and life at a gentle pace. Be sure to visit the Copper Mine National Park, a preserve of breathtaking scenery.
If you grow restless on these calm shores it’s probably time for a visit to Jost van Dyke. The cheeky, fun-loving island is a hedonistic dream. Try an authentic “Painkiller” at the Soggy Dollar Bar or just party on the beach.
A little way away is Anegada. It is somewhat remote compared to the others, but the journey is worth it. This is the hotspot for watersports. There are nearly 50 smaller islands and islets nearby, some inhabited, but most deserted and quiet.

Other Activities

Take advantage of the perfect sea and indulge in watersports. The BVI have a wide range of activities on offer including surfing, parasailing and kayaking. For those looking for a more cultural marine experience there is the chance to swim with dolphins too.
As with much of the Caribbean, fishing is very popular here. You will probably need a permit but they are easily obtained. And no matter when you come there is likely to be some sort of festival going on somewhere. They are always worth a visit.