Just a 30 minute ferry ride from St. Thomas in the USVI, or a 30 minute plane ride from San Juan, Puerto Rico, the stunning 55-plus islands and cays that comprise the British Virgin islands have two fantastic assets – accessibility and virgin beauty. Known for years as a "sailor's paradise," cruising sailors were among the first to realize this truly was one of "Nature's Little Secrets."
Tortola is the largest island and seat of government in this mountainous archipelago of gemlike isles. Virgin Gorda, Ginger, Cooper, Salt, Peter and Norman lie to Tortola's south and Jost Van Dyke lies to its north. Dozens of smaller islands, some with resorts, some unpopulated, lie between; Anegada, the only coral atoll in this chain of islands, is to the northwest. The BVI is a picture of contrasts. There are protected anchorages in quiet palm-fringed coves with spiraling sheer rock faces that plunge to the ocean. The vegetation can be dramatically different from island to island due to rainfall, soil and sun. Lusher areas support palms and tropical fruit trees like banana, mango and key lime, along with flowering hibiscus and bougainvillea. A short hike up a hill may reveal varieties of cactus, wild tamarind and fragrant frangipani. The surrounding waters are deep shades of liquid blue, but on Anegada, the waters takes on an ethereal aquamarine color. This diverse and fascinating environment makes this island chain particularly appealing to divers, boaters, hikers and those that just want to relax in a soft rope hammock overlooking a white sand beach.
The Boats: We have already reserved several boats for this island-hopping odyssey. Both mono-hulls and catamarans are available. Reservations are available for singles, couples, or if you are a qualified skipper you may put your own group together.
The Price: The price per person will range from $1,795 to $2,195 depending on which vessel you choose, and is based on double occupancy, both on the boat and in the hotel. For singles that prefer not to share a cabin, special pricing will be available. Contact the flotilla leader Lucy Newman (see Contact Information below) for more information. Selection of cabin and space available is based on a first come, first served basis, so get you deposit in right away!
What’s included? Charter and flotilla fees, including goodie bag, Welcome Reception Pizza party, group dinner at the Captain’s Table, Beach party, “Easy on the Cook” provisioning (7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, snacks, and 1 dinner aboard), water, fuel, mooring fees, charter insurance, dinghy with motor, linens, 2 nights hotel, 8 nights aboard, National Parks fees, cruising permits, VISAR fees, gratuity for the charter base staff, and guaranteed fun!
What’s not included? Airfare, dining ashore (except pizza party & group dinner), alcoholic beverages, airport / hotel taxi transfers, BVI departure tax, souvenirs, and personal incidentals.
Payment: $200 non-refundable deposit per person to get the ball rolling and claim your priority for cabin and boat choice! 50% of balance is due by August 5, 2012. The remaining 50% balance is due no later than October 5, 2012. Credit cards, checks, and cash are all acceptable forms of payment.
Contact Information: The ASA BVI Flotilla leader is Lucy Newman. She can be contacted at 281-334-4606 or email lucy@southcoastsailing.comfor more information or if you have any questions.
