British Virgin Islands Fast Facts …
The BVI’S are the sailing paradise. All islands are 5 to 10 nautical miles away from each other and the waters surrounding it are sheltered from swell/gusty winds. Enjoy a quiet night or a great party on a mooring buoy. The sailing area offers a wide range of snorkeling and diving spots. There are many restaurants if you prefer a fine dinning or hanging out at the bars will provide endless fun.
Dream Yacht Charter …
Tortola BVI Base Hodges Creek Marina,
Maya Cove, East End Tortola
Climate …
Trade winds season: from November till June. The stronger winds occur in December/January, the famous X Mas wind.
Hurricane season: from June till October.
The sailing area is less crowded with lighter wind.
Winds mainly from East- North East
North groundswell from December till March Special sailing considerations while on charter, e.g. skipper required.
Documents …
No Visa required to enter the BVI
English US visa required for USVI sailing
French US visa required for USVI sailing
German US visa required for USVI sailing
Italian US visa required for USVI sailing
US visa has to be obtained in your country at US embassy
Time Difference …
*GMT – 5 hours in winter *Hour + 1 in the winter
Communication …
Internet: Many cybercafés are available. The Internet Service Providers are: Wanadoo, Domaccess, Caribserve, Powerantilles, ADSL available. Wi-Fi access points.
Post office …
you will find post office close to the Marinas of Marigot and lot of letter boxes.
Means of Transport …
Many mini-vans drive around the island all day long. The fare is 1.50 USD. Like the locals do, stand by the side of the road and wave at the vans passing by to stop them.
If you wish to make your life easier, a good number of car rentals are available. Note that it is important to compare the prices between the various rentals.
For higher standards, limousines are also available for rent on the island.
Bicycles and motorbikes rentals are also there, but beware of the traffic!
As soon as you land on the island, taxi driver will propose their services. The cabs generally have no meter, start with agreeing on the fare with driver.
Driving is on the right hand side of the road and you may find only 3 traffic signals on the entire island. The condition of the roads is not always are the best, beware of bumps and humps!
Currency …
US Dollar. Credit Cards: Visa, Master Card, No American Express
ATMs: You will find ATM locations all over Tortola, and Virgin Gorda First Bank, Banco Popular, Scotia Bank, First Caribbean Bank
Traveler Checks: YES
Banking Hours: Monday to Thursday – 8:30am – 3:00pm, Fridays – 8:30 – 5:00pm
Things Useful to Take in Your Luggage …
Don’t forget solar creams, hi protection factor, children’s skin is much more fragile, more sunblock. Good sunglasses, with solar quality filter.
Light clothes; in particular loose cotton.
In spite of the climate you will appreciate a woolen garment for evenings outside during certain periods of the year.
Duty Free Information …
There is no Sales Tax on items purchased in the BVI
Other Important Information …
No spear fishing allowed
Fishing Permit required for fishing
Customs …
Upon entering the BVI by private or charter boat, Clearance must be made at the first port of entry. Cruising Permit and National Parks Permit is Mandatory when sailing on the BVI waters. These permits are issued with customs or your local charter company.