The Best 7-Day BVI Sailing Itinerary for Families
Family vacations are a great chance to break the routine, bond with your loved ones, and create favorite memories—even the ones that might feel challenging at first. A BVI Sailing itinerary offers families a chance to try sailing where it’s a short sail between islands, there are endless snorkeling spots, and national parks showcase the beauty of the Virgin Islands.
A 7-day itinerary lets families take in the beauty on land and sea without feeling rushed or short on time. With the right route, your family sailing vacation can balance learning to sail with plenty of time to lie on the beach, explore coral reefs and nature trails, and take in gorgeous sunset views.
Day 1: Arrive in the BVI
Spend some time shopping and exploring Nanny Cay Marina, and grab some last-minute snacks and essentials before you head to the boat. Once you get to the dock, your ASA sailing instructor will walk you through the boat and basic safety procedures and give you time to settle aboard the sailboat.
Day 2: Sail to Norman Island
On the first full sailing day of your 7-day BVI sailing itinerary, start off with a relatively short sail from Tortola to Norman Island. The waters are protected around The Bight, so it’s a relatively easy place to ease into the trip. The Caves are fun for older kids and adults to explore, with great opportunities to snorkel without venturing too far. If you’re hungry after, lunch at the floating bar and restaurant Willy T is fun for the whole family, but it becomes more adult-oriented at night.
Day 3: Head to Cooper Island
On day 2, head to Cooper Island, which is home to Cooper Island Beach Club. This is a family-friendly place to have lunch, and it’s not uncommon to see sea turtles in the seagrass beds near Manchioneel Bay.
Day 4: Adventure on Virgin Gorda
The Baths on Virgin Gorda are among the most scenic destinations in the British Virgin Islands, and a great place for the whole family to marvel at the towering granite boulders, caves, and hidden beaches. It’s also a good place to get the kids out on a somewhat challenging hike to the beach at Devil’s Bay. Swells and sea conditions can sometimes affect swimming and access to the beaches and trails, so always check ahead and consider skipping the hike and swimming through caves with very young children.
Day 5: Beach Day in Anegada
After a few days on your family sailing vacation, what’s better than relaxing on the beach? The low-lying coral island is perfect for younger kids, with long stretches of white sand that are surprisingly uncrowded. You can spend the day digging in the sand, or take older kids to the incredible Horseshoe Reef, where tropical fish, colorful coral, and historic shipwrecks add to the scenery underwater.
Day 6: Jost Van Dyke
On the last full day of your BVI sailing itinerary, spend an afternoon exploring Jost Van Dyke. White Bay is a great place for younger kids to swim and play in the sand before having lunch at one of the nearby restaurants. Families with older children can try watersports or explore the island and learn more about its history.
Day 7: Final Sail
On the last day of your 7-day BVI sailing itinerary, it’s time to pack up and sail back to the marina. You’ll generally get back to the dock by midmorning, which gives you plenty of time to grab lunch and pick up souvenirs before your flight home.
Sail BVI With Your Family
Sailing the British Virgin Islands is a fun way to experience the Caribbean beyond a traditional beach vacation. If you want to learn more about ASA sailing courses you can take with the whole family, contact Go Sail VI and book your trip now!