Sailing the British Virgin Islands: A Week Aboard the Moorings 5200
Planning a British Virgin Islands yacht charter? A week aboard the Moorings 5200 offers the perfect combination of luxury, adventure, and freedom. This 5-day British Virgin Islands sailing itinerary takes you to some of the BVI’s most iconic destinations—including Cooper Island, Anegada, Virgin Gorda, The Baths, and The Dogs—while showcasing what it’s like to explore the Caribbean aboard one of the region’s most sought-after luxury sailing catamarans.
Known for steady trade winds, line-of-sight navigation, crystal-clear waters, and world-class anchorages, the British Virgin Islands remain one of the best sailing destinations in the world. Whether you’re planning your first BVI yacht charter or returning for another unforgettable adventure, here’s what a week aboard the Moorings 5200 can look like.
5-Day BVI Sailing Itinerary Overview
| Day | Destination |
|---|---|
| Day 1 | Tortola & Sugarcane |
| Day 2 | Cooper Island & Savannah Bay |
| Day 3 | Saba Rock & Anegada |
| Day 4 | The Baths & Oil Nut Bay |
| Day 5 | The Dogs & Return to Tortola |
If you’ve sailed the British Virgin Islands before, this itinerary is for you.
Inspired by many of our yacht owners and repeat charter guests, this route goes beyond the traditional BVI highlights to offer a fresh mix of favorite anchorages, quieter stops, and unique experiences. Whether it’s your second trip or your twentieth, it’s a great way to experience the islands from a new perspective.
Watch the Itinerary Come to Life
Want a preview of what this route looks like? Follow along as we sail the Moorings 5200 through some of our favorite destinations in the British Virgin Islands, from the crystal-clear waters of Savannah Bay to the white-sand beaches of Anegada.
Why Choose the Moorings 5200?
Before setting sail, it’s worth understanding what makes the Moorings 5200 one of the most popular luxury catamarans available for charter in the British Virgin Islands.
Designed for both performance and comfort, the Moorings 5200 combines spacious accommodations with exceptional sailing capabilities, making it ideal for families, groups of friends, or couples seeking a premium charter experience.
Standout Features
- Five spacious guest cabins with ensuite bathrooms
- Expansive flybridge with panoramic ocean views
- Seamless indoor-outdoor living spaces
- Aft cockpit grill and fully equipped galley
- Shallow draft for accessing secluded anchorages
- Stable catamaran platform for comfortable cruising
The result is a yacht that feels less like a boat and more like a private floating villa, offering the perfect balance of luxury and adventure for a British Virgin Islands sailing vacation.

Day 1: Arrival in Tortola, Provisioning & Sunset at Sugarcane
Your British Virgin Islands sailing itinerary begins at The Moorings base in Tortola.
One of the biggest advantages of a Moorings yacht charter is the ease of arrival. With online provisioning available before your trip, everything from fresh produce and snacks to wine and beverages can be delivered directly to your yacht before you even step aboard.
After a thorough yacht briefing and departure orientation, the base staff helps ensure a smooth and stress-free departure.
Ease into island life by picking up a nearby mooring ball and settling into your new home on the water before heading ashore for dinner at Sugarcane Restaurant.
As the sun sets over Tortola, your BVI sailing adventure officially begins.

Day 2: Sailing from Cooper Island to Savannah Bay, Virgin Gorda
Your first full day starts with a short sail to Cooper Island, one of the most popular stops on any British Virgin Islands sailing itinerary.
Morning Highlights
- Breakfast at Cooper Island Beach Club
- Fresh coffee overlooking the Caribbean Sea
- Relaxed island atmosphere
For snorkeling enthusiasts, nearby waters offer access to the famous RMS Rhone wreck site, one of the Caribbean’s most renowned underwater attractions and a favorite stop on many BVI yacht charters.
Later, continue to Savannah Bay on Virgin Gorda, a quieter and less crowded destination known for its pristine shoreline and calm waters.
Why Visit Savannah Bay?
- Powder-soft white sand beaches
- Excellent paddleboarding conditions
- Crystal-clear water
- Fewer crowds than many popular BVI beaches
End the day with a sunset walk along the beach and enjoy one of Virgin Gorda’s most peaceful anchorages.

Day 3: Saba Rock to Anegada – Beach Bars & Boat Grilling
Start the day with a stop at iconic Saba Rock in North Sound, one of the most photographed destinations in the British Virgin Islands.
It’s an ideal place to enjoy:
- Waterfront dining
- Casual island cocktails
- Great photo opportunities
- Front-row views of passing yachts
From there, set course for Anegada, a destination unlike any other in the BVI.
Unlike the volcanic islands that dominate the region, Anegada is a low-lying coral island known for endless beaches, vibrant reefs, and incredible seafood.
Why Anegada Is a Must-Visit on a BVI Yacht Charter
- Miles of uncrowded white-sand beaches
- Exceptional lobster and seafood
- Spectacular snorkeling opportunities
- Beautiful shallow-water anchorages
After anchoring just beyond the main harbor area, head ashore to Sid’s Pomato Point for lunch or happy hour before returning to the yacht.
Back onboard, fire up the aft grill and enjoy dinner beneath a sky full of stars while taking advantage of the Moorings 5200’s open-air living spaces.

Day 4: Exploring The Baths and Oil Nut Bay
An early departure allows you to arrive at The Baths before the crowds.
Widely regarded as one of the most iconic attractions in the British Virgin Islands, The Baths feature enormous granite boulders, hidden pools, natural tunnels, and stunning beaches.
Highlights of The Baths
- Natural rock formations
- Hidden grottos and swim-throughs
- Incredible photography opportunities
- One of the most famous attractions in the Caribbean
After exploring, continue to Oil Nut Bay for a late afternoon and evening of luxury and relaxation at Nova, the resort’s yacht village.
Depending on availability, you can either dock or pick up a mooring ball nearby before heading ashore.
Spend the afternoon enjoying:
- Elevated dining experiences
- Luxury resort amenities
- Spectacular ocean views
- Sunset cocktails overlooking the water
The contrast between the natural beauty of The Baths and the refined atmosphere of Oil Nut Bay makes this one of the most memorable days of the itinerary.

Day 5: Snorkeling The Dogs and Returning to Tortola
For your final full day in the British Virgin Islands, head to The Dogs, a collection of small islands known for some of the best snorkeling in the BVI.
Expect:
- Healthy coral reef systems
- Abundant marine life
- Crystal-clear visibility
- Easy access directly from the yacht
It’s the perfect final stop before beginning your return sail to Tortola.
As you cruise back toward the Moorings base, you’ll have plenty of time to reflect on the anchorages, beaches, snorkeling adventures, and unforgettable moments experienced throughout the week.
Why the Moorings 5200 Is Perfect for a BVI Sailing Vacation
Sailing the British Virgin Islands aboard the Moorings 5200 offers a unique blend of freedom, comfort, and adventure.
You’ll enjoy:
- The flexibility to create your own itinerary
- Access to secluded beaches and anchorages
- Spacious onboard accommodations
- Easy island-to-island cruising
- Luxury amenities throughout your journey
Whether you’re snorkeling historic shipwrecks, enjoying sunset cocktails on the flybridge, or grilling fresh seafood under the stars, every day delivers a new perspective on the Caribbean.

Frequently Asked Questions About Sailing the BVI on the Moorings 5200
How Many Guests Can the Moorings 5200 Accommodate?
The Moorings 5200 comfortably accommodates up to 10 guests across five spacious cabins, each featuring a private ensuite bathroom. For guests chartering with a professional captain, an additional skipper berth is located in the air-conditioned forepeak, allowing groups to enjoy maximum privacy and comfort throughout their British Virgin Islands sailing vacation.
Is the British Virgin Islands a Good Destination for First-Time Sailors?
Absolutely. The British Virgin Islands is widely considered one of the best sailing destinations in the world for first-time sailors and charter guests. Consistent trade winds, short sailing distances between islands, line-of-sight navigation, well-marked channels, and an abundance of mooring balls make cruising straightforward and enjoyable. Combined with calm waters and protected anchorages, the BVI offers an ideal environment for both new and experienced sailors.
How Many Days Do You Need for a British Virgin Islands Yacht Charter?
While a 7-day British Virgin Islands sailing itinerary allows you to experience the destination at a relaxed pace, a 5-day yacht charter can still cover many of the region’s most iconic highlights. With careful planning, charter guests can visit destinations such as Cooper Island, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and The Baths while still enjoying plenty of time for snorkeling, beach hopping, and relaxing onboard.
What Is the Best Time of Year to Sail in the British Virgin Islands?
The British Virgin Islands offers year-round sailing conditions, making it one of the Caribbean’s most reliable charter destinations. The most popular months for sailing are typically December through July, when trade winds are consistent and weather conditions are especially favorable. While sailing remains excellent throughout much of the year, travelers should be aware that some restaurants, beach bars, and resorts may operate on reduced schedules during the late summer and early fall months, which coincide with the Caribbean hurricane season.
Can You Visit Anegada During a One-Week BVI Sailing Itinerary?
Yes. Anegada is one of the most popular stops on a British Virgin Islands yacht charter and fits perfectly into both 5-day and 7-day itineraries. Known for its pristine beaches, world-famous lobster, vibrant coral reefs, and laid-back atmosphere, Anegada offers a completely different experience from the mountainous volcanic islands found throughout the rest of the BVI.
What Makes the Moorings 5200 Different from Other Charter Catamarans?
The Moorings 5200 sets itself apart through its innovative design, exceptional comfort, and luxurious onboard living spaces. One of its most distinctive features is the expansive 438-square-foot indoor-outdoor living area, created by wide stackable sliding doors that seamlessly connect the aft cockpit to the bright panoramic saloon.
The yacht’s luxurious owner’s suite offers expansive living space, premium finishes, a queen-sized berth, and a private ensuite, creating a true sanctuary on the water. In addition to the owner’s suite, guests enjoy three spacious double cabins and a unique aft-access bunk cabin that is ideal for teenagers or crew.
A forward-facing galley allows you to prepare meals while enjoying panoramic views, while multiple refrigeration options, generous storage, a gas plancha grill, and versatile dining spaces make life onboard effortless. Combined with exceptional comfort and thoughtful design throughout, the Moorings 5200 delivers one of the most premium charter experiences available in the British Virgin Islands.
Do I Need Sailing Experience to Charter a Yacht in the British Virgin Islands?
Yes. While the British Virgin Islands is considered one of the most beginner-friendly sailing destinations in the Caribbean, bareboat charter guests must demonstrate prior sailing experience on vessels of a comparable size. Before departure, you’ll complete a sailing resume outlining your experience and time on the water. If you’d prefer a more relaxed experience, hiring a professional skipper allows you to enjoy all the benefits of a BVI yacht charter while leaving the navigation to an experienced captain.

Start Planning Your British Virgin Islands Yacht Charter
Ready to experience the British Virgin Islands aboard the Moorings 5200?
Explore available charter dates, browse yacht specifications, and start planning your dream BVI sailing vacation today. From secluded anchorages and world-famous snorkeling sites to luxury onboard living, there’s no better way to experience the Caribbean than by yacht.
And if you find yourself wishing the adventure didn’t have to end, the Moorings 5200 is also available through The Moorings Yacht Ownership Program. Owners enjoy the unique opportunity to place their yacht in our professionally managed charter fleet while receiving generous personal usage time each year—combining the benefits of yacht ownership with the freedom to sail some of the world’s most spectacular destinations.
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