Turquoise waters of the British Virgin Islands

Travel Guide

Plan Your BVI Visit

Everything you need to know to make your British Virgin Islands trip seamless, stress-free, and unforgettable.

Your Journey Starts Here

We'll Handle the Details

The BVI is one of the Caribbean's most rewarding destinations — and one of its most accessible. Whether you're arriving by air or sea, staying a week or a month, sailing or exploring on land, this guide covers everything you need to plan the perfect trip.

Getting There

How to Reach the BVI

The BVI is well-connected to major Caribbean hubs and beyond. Most visitors arrive via connecting flights through San Juan, St. Thomas, or Antigua.

By Air

By Air

Fly into Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on Beef Island (EIS), connected to Tortola by bridge.

Direct connections from San Juan (SJU), St. Thomas (STT), and Antigua (ANU)
Major carriers: American Airlines, Delta, British Airways (via hubs)
Regional: Cape Air, LIAT, InterCaribbean Airways
Flight time from Miami: ~3 hours; New York: ~4.5 hours; London: ~9 hours
By Ferry

By Ferry

Fast ferry services connect the BVI to St. Thomas and St. John in the US Virgin Islands.

Native Son and Road Town Fast Ferry operate daily services
St. Thomas to Road Town: approximately 45 minutes
St. John to West End (Tortola): approximately 30 minutes
Passport required for all ferry crossings
By Private Charter

By Private Charter

Arrive in style — charter a yacht or speedboat directly to your island of choice.

Private water taxi from St. Thomas or St. John
Helicopter transfers available for a truly spectacular arrival
Charter yachts can be your accommodation and transport combined
Scatos Tours can arrange all private transfer options

The BVI welcomes visitors year-round — every season has its magic

When to Visit

Best Time to Visit the BVI

Most Popular

Peak Season

December – April

Dry, sunny, 75–85°F
Ideal sailing conditions, lively atmosphere, Spring Regatta
Best Value

Shoulder Season

May – July

Warm, occasional showers, 80–88°F
Fewer crowds, great value, Emancipation Festival in August
Budget-Friendly

Off-Peak Season

August – November

Hot, humid, hurricane season, 82–90°F
Quietest period, lowest prices, lush green landscapes

Where to Stay

Accommodation Options

Luxury Resorts
$$$–$$$$

Luxury Resorts

World-class resorts on Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Peter Island offer full-service luxury with stunning ocean views, spa facilities, and gourmet dining.

Peter Island Resort, Oil Nut Bay, Rosewood Little Dix Bay

Private Villas
$$$–$$$$

Private Villas

Rent a fully-staffed private villa for the ultimate in privacy and flexibility. Many come with private pools, chefs, and direct beach access.

Available across all major islands

Bareboat or Crewed Charter

$$–$$$$

Live aboard a sailing yacht and wake up in a different anchorage each morning. The BVI is the sailing capital of the Caribbean.

The Moorings, Sunsail, Horizon Yacht Charters

Guesthouses & B&Bs

$–$$

Charming locally-owned guesthouses offer authentic BVI hospitality at accessible prices, often with home-cooked breakfasts and insider tips.

Available on Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke

Travel Essentials

What You Need to Know

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Entry Requirements

Most visitors need a valid passport. US and UK citizens do not need a visa for stays up to 30 days. Always check current requirements before travel.

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Currency

The US Dollar is the official currency. Credit cards are widely accepted at resorts and restaurants. Carry cash for smaller vendors and beach bars.

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Language

English is the official language. You'll find the locals warm, welcoming, and happy to share their favourite hidden spots.

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Health & Safety

No vaccinations required for most visitors. Tap water is safe to drink. The BVI has a low crime rate and is considered one of the safest Caribbean destinations.

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Getting Around

Drive on the left. Car rentals are available on Tortola and Virgin Gorda. Taxis are plentiful. Water taxis connect the islands quickly and affordably.

☀️

Weather & Packing

Light, breathable clothing year-round. Pack reef-safe sunscreen, a light rain jacket for showers, and good water shoes for The Baths and rocky beaches.

Our Tours

Explore with Scatos Tours

Let us take the guesswork out of your BVI adventure. Our expert local guides know every hidden cove, the best snorkelling spots, and where the locals eat.

Sailing Day Trips

Most popular

Spend a day under sail, visiting multiple islands, snorkelling pristine reefs, and anchoring in secluded bays.

Full dayUp to 12 guests

Island Hopping Tours

Best for first-timers

Visit 3–4 islands in a single day — The Baths, Jost Van Dyke's beach bars, and hidden anchorages most visitors never find.

Full dayUp to 8 guests

Diving & Snorkelling

Bucket-list experience

Explore the RMS Rhone wreck, vibrant coral gardens, and the famous Indians rock formation with our certified dive guides.

Half or full dayUp to 6 divers

Custom Private Tours

Fully tailored

Design your perfect BVI day — we'll build a bespoke itinerary around your interests, pace, and group size.

FlexibleAny size
BVI sunset

Ready to Start Planning?

Get in touch with our team and we'll help you design the perfect BVI itinerary — from first flight to final sunset.