Meta Title: Northern Caribbean Sailing Trip – From the BVI to St. Martin
Meta Description: Dreamlike 10-day sailing adventure through the Northern Caribbean – from the British Virgin Islands via Anguilla to St. Martin. Pure island-hopping, sunshine, and sailing bliss.
Introduction
Turquoise bays, steady trade winds in your sails, and palm-fringed beaches – the Northern Caribbean is a paradise for relaxed sailors and island-hopping enthusiasts. This 10-day route leads through one of the most beautiful and diverse sailing regions in the Caribbean: from the British Virgin Islands via Anguilla to St. Martin/Sint Maarten. Ideal conditions, sheltered waters, and charming island cultures make this itinerary perfect for cruisers and Caribbean newcomers alike.
Quick Overview:
- Region: British Virgin Islands, US Virgin Islands, Anguilla, St. Martin
- Duration: 10 days
- Difficulty: Easy to moderate
- Character: Relaxed island-hopping with short legs and tropical flair
The Region at a Glance
The Northern Caribbean, stretching between the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and St. Martin, combines the best of the tropics: crystal-clear waters, short passages between islands, and a fascinating blend of British, Dutch, and French influence.
Each island has its own character – from the refined calm of the BVI to Anguilla’s easy-going charm and the lively culture of St. Martin. The contrast between natural beauty and cultural richness makes this sailing area truly unique.
Regional Highlights:
- BVI: Idyllic bays and safe anchorages
- USVI: National parks and untouched nature
- Anguilla: Exclusive ambiance and pristine beaches
- St. Martin: French lifestyle meets Dutch nightlife
Best Time to Sail
From December to May, the Northern Caribbean offers the best sailing conditions. Temperatures remain steadily between 28–30°C (82–86°F), the water is warm, and the northeast trade winds provide consistent and reliable breezes.
After hurricane season, the sea is calm, the skies are clear, and conditions are ideal for sailors seeking sunshine and stability.
Weather at a Glance:
- Sailing Season: December – May
- Wind: Northeast trades, 10–20 knots
- Temperature: 28–30°C (air & water)
- Sea State: Generally calm, especially on the leeward sides
Route & Itinerary
Day 1: Tortola (BVI) – Norman Island (10 nm, approx. 2 h)
A relaxed start to your Caribbean adventure. Sail from Road Town to the famous rock formations known as “The Indians”, a perfect snorkel stop. Anchor overnight in The Bight – your first taste of Caribbean magic.
Day 2: Norman Island – Cooper Island (8 nm, approx. 1.5 h)
A gentle leg along the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Cooper Island welcomes you with turquoise waters and the laid-back Cooper Island Beach Club – the ideal place for a sunset drink.
Day 3: Cooper Island – Virgin Gorda (12 nm, approx. 3 h)
Sail past Salt Island toward Virgin Gorda, home to the natural wonder The Baths – giant granite boulders forming grottoes and pools in shallow water.
Day 4: Virgin Gorda – Anegada (15 nm, approx. 4 h)
A slightly longer but calm passage to Anegada, a low-lying coral island. Expect turquoise lagoons, long beaches, and grilled lobster by the sea. Navigate the reef entrance in good light.
Day 5: Anegada – Jost Van Dyke (25 nm, approx. 5 h)
A scenic return to the BVI island chain. Jost Van Dyke is famous for its laid-back beach bars and the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar – the essence of barefoot Caribbean style.
Day 6: Jost Van Dyke – St. John (USVI) (15 nm, approx. 3 h)
A short sail to the US Virgin Islands. St. John is a national park paradise, best enjoyed at anchor in Maho Bay or Francis Bay.
Day 7: St. John – St. Thomas (10 nm, approx. 2 h)
Sail to St. Thomas, known for its colonial charm and colorful markets in Charlotte Amalie – a good spot to restock supplies or explore ashore.
Day 8: St. Thomas – Dog Island (Anguilla) (65 nm, approx. 12 h)
A longer offshore leg, best sailed overnight or with an early start. Dog Island, west of Anguilla, is wild, uninhabited, and stunning – a real gem.
Day 9: Dog Island – Anguilla (10 nm, approx. 2 h)
A short hop into Road Bay on Anguilla. Enjoy relaxed elegance, local bars, and beautiful swimming and snorkeling spots.
Day 10: Anguilla – St. Martin/Sint Maarten (20 nm, approx. 4 h)
The final sail leads to St. Martin, where French flair meets Dutch energy. End your trip in Marigot or Simpson Bay, with plenty of options for celebration or relaxation.
Route Facts:
- Total distance: approx. 190 nautical miles
- Daily legs: 8–25 nm (1.5–5 hours)
- Highlights: Perfect mix of culture, nature, and sailing comfort
Highlights Along the Way
Whether secluded beaches, colorful reefs, or local culinary delights – the Northern Caribbean is full of surprises.
Top Experiences:
- The Baths (Virgin Gorda): Dramatic granite formations in turquoise waters
- Anegada Lobster BBQ: A must for seafood lovers
- Jost Van Dyke: Legendary beach bars and golden sunsets
- St. John National Park: Unspoiled bays and tropical wilderness
- St. Martin: Gourmet cuisine, lively markets, and cosmopolitan sailing life
Practical Tips
This route is best enjoyed on a catamaran or comfortable cruising yacht (40–50 ft). Provisioning is easy in Tortola, St. Thomas, and St. Martin. Be sure to prepare for border crossings in advance and keep crew lists ready.
Trip Essentials:
- Boat type: Catamaran or monohull, 40–50 ft
- Provisioning: Excellent in BVI, USVI, and St. Martin
- Formalities: Customs and immigration paperwork required for each territory
- Weather: Depart early – trade winds strengthen around midday
- Sustainability: Protect reefs, minimize waste, support local businesses
Travel Extensions
If time allows, extend your trip – either before departure in Tortola or after arrival in St. Martin. Both islands offer fantastic ways to experience Caribbean life beyond the boat.
Tortola combines British charm with tropical scenery. Stroll through Road Town with its colorful colonial houses and lively market, visit the Botanic Gardens, or relax at Cane Garden Bay, where reggae drifts through the palm trees. For adventure and views, hike up to Sage Mountain National Park, the highest point in the BVI.
After the voyage, St. Martin/Sint Maarten welcomes you with French-Caribbean culture and cuisine. Explore Marigot’s boutiques and markets, dine seaside in Grand Case, or enjoy a sunset drink in Simpson Bay, surrounded by the international sailing crowd.
If you’re craving more exploration, head inland to Pic Paradis, Loterie Farm trails, or the Butterfly Farm Gardens.
Short getaways to St. Barthélemy or Anguilla are easy to arrange – offering either elegant luxury or tranquil beaches like Shoal Bay East.
Extension Recommendations:
- Tortola: Road Town walk, Botanic Gardens, Cane Garden Bay, Sage Mountain viewpoint
- St. Martin: Grand Case dining, Marigot markets, island tours
- Anguilla: Shoal Bay, Road Bay bars, boutique resorts
- St. Barthélemy: Day trip or short stay – French flair & Caribbean chic
Is this Route for you?
A sailing trip through the Northern Caribbean is a dream come true for those who seek warmth, wind, and variety. Between the British Virgin Islands and St. Martin lie short, scenic legs, diverse cultures, and unforgettable sunsets.
Whether you’re chasing the freedom of the sea or simply want to unwind – this route offers the perfect balance between adventure and relaxation.
Start planning your sailing adventure and experience the Caribbean spirit under sail!
SEO Note
Keywords: Northern Caribbean sailing trip, BVI sailing, St. Martin yacht charter, Caribbean island-hopping, Anguilla sailing holiday, Caribbean sailing vacation
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