When people visit the Virgin Islands, they often focus on the national parks, beautiful beaches, and champagne sailing. But don’t forget about the rich history of both the BVI and the USVI!  Comparing the USVI vs. BVI goes beyond knowing the best dive sites or sailing routes. The islands of the USVI and BVI are…

Famous for its distinctive windmill, the ruins of the Annaberg Sugar Plantation can be found on the beautiful island of St. John, within Virgin Islands National Park. The Annaberg Sugar Plantation is one of the best-preserved and easiest to reach plantations in the U.S. Virgin Islands, accessible via an easy hike that offers picturesque views…

Before the Virgin Islands became the vacation paradise they are today, and even before Columbus’s western voyages, they were populated by a thriving network of indigenous people. By exploring the history of the Ciboney and Arawak tribes, we gain insight into what life in the Caribbean was like before European contact. The Ciboney Tribe The…

One of the highlights of exploring the British Virgin Islands with Go Sail VI is stopping at the famous floating bar on Norman Island known as Willy T. The legendary destination in Bight Bay has a long history, with stories ranging from sunken ships to notorious late-night parties. But who was William Thornton, and what…

Located east of Puerto Rico, the Spanish Virgin Islands are a lesser-known Caribbean archipelago that includes the beautiful islands of Culebra and Vieques, as well as smaller islets such as Culebrita, Icacos, and Palomino. Interestingly, the Spanish Virgin Islands’ history differs from that of the neighboring U.S. Virgin Islands, even though both regions are territories…

Traditionally, images of sailors are usually men, but women have always been more than passengers on sailboats. Women have participated in the technical aspects and decision-making of sailing for centuries and have contributed their own advancements in the sailing world. These four trailblazing women sailors are fantastic examples of how women can change who sailing…

As one of the most treasured islands in the British Virgin Islands, Virgin Gorda is celebrated for its stunning scenery, particularly the iconic Baths. The fascinating history of Virgin Gorda helped shape the island into the paradise that visitors enjoy today. The Pre-Columbian Era The earliest inhabitants of Virgin Gorda were indigenous people who primarily…

Jost Van Dyke is a stop on Go Sail VI’s British Virgin Islands itinerary and is famous for its white sand beaches and laid-back vibe. But long before sailors pulled up for the famous Painkiller cocktail at the Soggy Dollar after snorkeling in White Bay, this small island just off the coast of Tortola was…

One of the most famous sailors of all time, Sir Francis Drake, explored lands far away from his birthplace in Devonshire, England, in his decades of navigating oceans worldwide. While his travels took him around the globe, he spent a great deal of time in the Caribbean, and right here in the Virgin Islands.  As…

The long and proud history of sailing in the Virgin Islands is central to the region’s identity and has led to its reputation as a premier sailing destination today. Here’s the key facts to know about the history of sailing in the Virgin Islands for history buffs and curious visitors! Pre-Colombian People Before Europeans ever…

Facts About Virgin Islands National Park Virgin Islands National Park is full of adventure and fun! Here are a few things facts about Virgin Islands National Park that are worth knowing before you visit: This is no British Virgin Islands National Park The British Virgin Islands is home to a few different national parks but…

Congress declared May 22 as National Maritime Day in the 1930s and it is still being celebrated today! Find out more about the holiday and how you can celebrate it below: What does National Maritime Day celebrate? National Maritime Day celebrates all those in the maritime industry! That includes those in the marine shipping industry,…

These facts about the Virgin Islands National Park will walk you through what you need to know before you go!

How many days do you need in the Virgin Islands National Park? What should you do while your there? Read on to find out!

What do you need to know before taking a sailing trip in St. John? Here are the top tips for planning your Virgin Islands vacation.