A little more
British Virgin Islands.
A lot less roaming.

Travelling to British Virgin Islands: what to know before you go

The British Virgin Islands are a British Overseas Territory of around 60 islands and cays east of Puerto Rico, grouped around the sheltered waters of the Sir Francis Drake Channel. They are one of the world's best-known sailing grounds, with short hops between quiet anchorages, beaches and reefs. They suit sailors, snorkellers and travellers who like small islands with a relaxed pace.

Where to go

• The Baths, Virgin Gorda. Huge granite boulders piled on the beach at the south of Virgin Gorda, forming grottoes and tidal pools.
• Sailing the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Steady trade winds, short distances and many protected anchorages make the islands ideal for sailing, whether on a chartered yacht or a day trip.
• Anegada. A flat coral island quite different from its hilly neighbours, with long empty beaches, salt ponds with flamingos and the Horseshoe Reef offshore.
• Jost Van Dyke. A small island with only a few hundred residents, known for White Bay's beach bars and Great Harbour, a relaxed yachting stop.

Best time to visit

The dry season from December to April has the most reliable weather and steady trade winds, making it peak sailing season. May to July is quieter and still pleasant.

Staying online in British Virgin Islands

Mobile coverage is good across most of Tortola and Virgin Gorda, and in the main anchorages and villages of the smaller islands. Signal can be weaker on Anegada, in some remote bays and at sea between islands. Near the US Virgin Islands your phone may connect to US networks, so set your data line carefully. Wi-Fi is common in hotels, marinas and beach bars. Install an eSIM before you fly and switch it on when you land.