Sailing BVI in December

Is december a good time to sail in BVI? Are you planning to sail in BVI in december? In the British Virgin Islands (BVI), December offers the perfect mix of idyllic weather, calm seas and festive cheer, making it a prime time for a sailing vacation. Once you’ve escaped the winter cold, you can explore the fascinating islands, hidden coves and bustling coral reefs at your own pace thanks to the constant trade winds, sunshine and warm waters. This article examines why December is ideal for sailing in the BVI, highlighting the weather conditions, holiday spirit and top destinations. We can help you with itineraries, ports, yacht rental options & useful sailing info. We are here

• Sailing BVI in December weather
• The best sailing destinations in BVI in december
• How to get to the BVI?
• Sailing in BVI in december: itineraries

Sailing BVI in December weather

In December, the maximum temperature during the day is on average 27°C, and the lowest at night is around 23°C, the water temperature is around 26°C on average. December falls right in the BVI’s dry season, which lasts from December to May, so you can expect minimal rainfall and lots of sunshine. In December, the days are a little shorter, about 11 hours a day, and the number of hours of sunshine is 8 hours. In December, the “Christmas winds” blow, which are strong trade winds of 15-30 knots. These winds create exciting sailing conditions, especially for experienced sailors. If you’re a beginner, don’t worry! There are plenty of sheltered anchorages and coves to explore. Tip: December is a popular time for sailing in the BVI, so it is recommended to book your yacht early.

The best sailing destinations in BVI in december

December is the best time to sail in the British Virgin Islands. The weather is fantastic and the festive atmosphere adds to the magic. Here are some of the best sailing destinations:

Norman Island

The Bight This well-protected bay has calm waters and is a popular anchorage, perfect for swimming and snorkelling. The beach is lined with lively beach bars and restaurants, making it a great place to socialize. Here is the legendary Willy T’s Floating bar and restaurant, which is a must-do!
Caves Explore these fascinating caves by dinghy or kayak, swim through a series of interconnected caves and admire the colorful marine life.
Privateer Bay Another beautiful anchorage with a secluded beach and excellent snorkeling.

Just Van Dyke

White Bay Home to the famous Soggy Dollar Bar and Hendo’s Hideout, this iconic beach is known for its ambiance, pain-killing cocktails and stunning white sand.
Great Harbour This is the main settlement of Jost Van Dyke, a charming village with colorful houses, local shops and restaurants. Foxy’s Tamarind Bar is a legendary place, especially during the festive season with its famous New Year’s Eve party.
Diamond Cay Snorkel or dive the vibrant coral reefs surrounding the small island.

Tortola

Cane Garden Bay A popular bay with a long sandy beach, calm waters and many restaurants and bars.
Smuggler’s Cove A secluded beach with excellent snorkeling.
Apple Bay A paradise for surfers with suitable waves for all levels.

Virgin Gorda

The Iconic Baths The Baths are a unique geological formation where giant granite rocks create impressive caves, tunnels and pools. Snorkel or swim in the crystal clear turquoise water and discover hidden caves and passages.Hiking the Baths on the surrounding paths, where you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the coast.
Spanish Town Virgin Gorda’s main town with shops, restaurants and historic sites.
Savannah Bay Beautiful beach with calm waters and excellent snorkeling.

Anegada

Loblolly Bay This pristine beach is known for its powdery white sand and turquoise waters.
Horseshoe Reef The largest coral reef in the Caribbean, offering exceptional diving and snorkeling opportunities.
További részletek

How to get to the BVI?

The island’s main airport is Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island American Airlines offers direct flights from Miami (MIA). Connecting Flights: The main hub for connecting flights to the BVI is San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU). Airlines such as Cape Air, Air Sunshine and Seaborne offer frequent flights to Beef Island (EIS) and Virgin Gorda (VIJ). Another connecting airport is St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands (STT). . InterCaribbean Airways offers daily flights from St. Thomas to Beef Island.
Experienced sailors can also sail to BVI from other Caribbean islands.

Sailing in BVI in december: itineraries

1-week sailing from Tortola

1. day: Tortola (Road Town) – Norman Island

11 km (6 sq m), sailing time: 1.5 – 2 hours
Morning: Departure from Road Town, Tortola to Norman Island.
Afternoon: Mooring in The Bight, a well-sheltered bay with calm water. Snorkel or dive in the famous caves. Enjoy lunch at the Willy T floating bar and restaurant. Relax on the beach and enjoy the Caribbean sun.
Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner on board or in one of the restaurants on shore.

2. day: from Norman Island to Cooper Island

13 km (7 sq m), sailing time: 2 – 2.5 hours
Morning: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and a morning swim at Norman Island, then sail to Cooper Island and anchor in Manchioneel Bay. Snorkel or dive among the vibrant reefs around the island. Dine at Cooper Island Beach Club. Discover the island’s nature trails.
Evening: Enjoy a sunset cocktail on the beach or on the yacht.

3. day: Cooper Island to Virgin Gorda (The Baths)

15 km (8 sq m), sailing time: 2.5 – 3 hours
Morning: Depart Cooper Island and sail to Virgin Gorda.
Afternoon: Anchor near The Baths and explore this unique natural wonder. Swim and snorkel in the caves and tunnels formed by the giant granite rocks.Hike the trails leading to Devil’s Bay. Enjoy lunch in the panoramic restaurant at Top of the Baths.
Evening: Have dinner on board or find a charming restaurant in the Spanish town.

4. day: Virgin Gorda (The Baths) – to Anegada

37 km (20 sq m), sailing time: 4 – 5 hours
Morning: Enjoy a final swim at The Baths before heading to Anegada.
Afternoon: Arrival at Anegada, a unique coral island with miles of pristine beaches. Relax in Loblolly Bay, famous for their beauty, or at Cow Wreck Beach. Explore the island by bike or scooter. Have a lobster dinner at one of the local restaurants. Anegada is famous for its fresh seafood!
Evening: Stargazing on the beach – Anegada’s remote location offers an incredible night sky.

5. day: from Anegadaa to Trellis Bay (Beef Island)

30 km (16 sq m), sailing time: 3.5 – 4.5 hours
Morning: Enjoy a comfortable breakfast and a swim in the turquoise waters of Anegada, then head to Trellis Bay on Beef Island.
Visit the Last Resort Bar and Restaurant Trellis Bay Market for local crafts and souvenirs.
Enjoy the full moon party if it falls during your trip.
Evening: Relax on board or have dinner at one of the beach restaurants.

6. day: Trellis Bay – Jost Van Dyke

8 km (4 sq m), sailing time: 1 – 1.5 hours
Morning: Sail to Jost Van Dyke.
Afternoon: drop anchor in Great Harbor, relax on White Bay Beach, famous for its white sand and turquoise waters.
Sip a “Painkiller” cocktail at the Soggy Dollar Bar, the birthplace of this iconic drink. Enjoy live music and dancing at Foxy’s Tamarind Bar.
Evening: Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the beach restaurants.

7. day: Jost Van Dyke to Tortola (Road Town)

15 km (8 sq m), sailing time: 2 – 2.5 hours
Morning: Enjoy a final swim and breakfast on Jost Van Dyke. Departure back to Road Town, Tortola.
Afternoon: Walk around the city and get ready for the boat transfer.

Important notes:
Sailing times are estimates and may vary depending on wind and sea conditions. Be sure to check the permits or fees required to visit certain areas, such as The Baths National Park.