Discover the British Virgin Islands: A Sailing Paradise

After exploring the Antilles on their own boat, Charlie and Ginny Cary fell in love with the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and decided to open a boat rental base in Tortola. On July 4, 1969, this revolutionary idea took shape. Their company, named The Moorings, started with a fleet of six 35-foot sailboats. The choice of this destination was obvious to them: easily accessible by plane, offering pleasant sailing conditions with constant and well-oriented winds, and boasting magnificent, serene anchorages close to each other. To top it off, crews navigate as if on a lake or inland sea, perfectly protected by the archipelago’s approximately 25 islands. Nearly 60 years after the original idea, renting a boat in the BVI remains a magical experience. The British Virgin Islands offer a particularly attractive sailing area.

This maze of islands, stretching 50 km by 25 km, features white sandy beaches lined with palm trees and translucent waters inviting you to discover the particularly rich marine life (corals, multicolored fish, and shipwrecks dating back to the 18th century). In the Virgin Islands, the past is never far away: you can discover Norman Island, the “real treasure island” that inspired Stevenson to write his famous novel. And what about the superb anchorages on the north coast of Tortola, White Bay beach on Peter Island, or the famous Baths of Virgin Gorda? Adventurers will not fail to sail to Anegada, one of the BVI islands that has retained all its charm and fully justifies renting a vehicle for an in-depth visit.

A Wide Selection of Boats to Meet Every Need

Opening a boat rental base in the British Virgin Islands was an excellent idea. Proof of this is that, some 60 years after the inauguration, the boat offer has grown from 6 to 350 at The Moorings and Sunsail bases! Monohulls, catamarans, sailboats or motorboats, small or (very) large, with or without a skipper, or even with a full crew: everyone can find their boat and imagine the vacation that suits them. The Moorings and Sunsail have a perfectly maintained fleet, with boats specifically designed by the world’s leading manufacturers to meet the needs of the most demanding renters. Whether you are sailing as a couple, with family, or with many friends, you are sure to find the boat and the formula that will suit you to discover this fabulous destination.

Top-Notch Base and Services for an Unforgettable Experience

The small base created in 1969 has evolved significantly. The Moorings Yacht Club, located in the heart of Tortola, is now a true hotel complex that combines island charm and high-end amenities. It is the ideal place to start or end your vacation in style. You will find a hotel, a spa, restaurants, as well as a supermarket and a selection of various shops to equip yourself or treat yourself before embarking on your cruise. The base is open from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. and you will find all the facilities: transfer from and to the airport, provisioning, rental of water sports equipment, not to mention the traditional personalized briefing to make your cruise 100% successful. Definitely the “plus” service offered by The Moorings and Sunsail!

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