Tag Archive: BVI

Sailing Vacations – Did you know?

Dec 15, 2010

Did you know that the British Virgin Islands are known as the “Sailing Capital of the World?

The BVI has long been famous world wide for sailing vacations.  There are numerous reasons for this global designation.

  • Ease of access.  You can fly directly to the main island of Tortola or arrive in St. Thomas USVI and board a fast ferry for a great scenic ride to sailing paradise.
  • English is spoken and the currency is US dollars.
  • There is a minimum level of crime.  The BVI government  as well as the local population derive their income from the tourism industry so everything is done to make your vacation safe and easy.
  • Internet as well as cell service is available
  • The locals are very friendly and helpful.  They  are proud of their paradise and eager to show it off.
  • There are hundreds of sailboats and there are dozens of places to anchor.
  • The BVI consists of multiple islands that form a large necklace around the island of Tortola which also is the home of Road Town, the capital of the BVI
  • Each Island has a story. Each island has a different ambience.
  • The water is safe to drink, the local food is delicious (especially the Anegada lobster. Restaurants range from international renowned gourmet to beach bar casual.
  • Weather is always warm offering  year round tropical temperatures.
  • Water is turquoise blue and green and  crystal clear.
  • Activities for everyone swimming, sun bathing, bar hopping, kite sailing, hiking, beach combing, spas, dining, dancing, exploring.
  • World  class diving and snorkeling.  Put on your snorkel and fins, jump off the back of your boat and you are in the worlds largest aquarium.

Did you know that you can book a Caribbean Sailing Vacation with Captain Terry on the 51’ Manana Maybe and  have your dream sailing vacation?  Check out www. sailwithterry.com.  The videos and pictures will show you how to make your vacation dreams come true.

Sailing Vacations…Imagine This

Dec 2, 2010

December:  Christmas holidays,  family time,  winter wonderland.

January:  Hectic work days, stress, icy roads, clearing snow.

Imagine :  Blue sunny skies, snowy white beaches, no traffic, sailing each day to a different island. Snorkel, dive, walk deserted beaches, party time at a quaint beach bar, sail and start all over the next day.

sailing vacation

sailing vacation

When you take sailing vacations in the BVI with a captain you are opting for a week of total relaxation.  The most difficult  chore will be deciding which island to  visit and where to make dinner reservations.  Or if that gets too complicated,  perhaps cocktails at sunset,  throwing a steak on the grill, opening a nice bottle of wine and dinning under a canopy of millions of brilliant stars.  No driving, no taxis, just step down to your private cabin and listen to the waves lapping on the side of the boat as you fall into a deep sleep.

The next morning awaken to the sounds of sea gulls fishing for their breakfast and the aroma of coffee.  You  slowly come on to the deck and view another day in paradise.  Blue, sunny skies, on the horizon, balmy breezes.  Now comes the hard part, you have to decide where you will sail today and at which island you will be enjoying your happy hour.  Perhaps Josh Van Dyke and Foxy’s bar, where happy hours just blend into night time fun with music and dancing.  Anegada may be your choice for a dinner on the beach with grilled lobster as you watch the sun set into the blue  Caribbean Ocean.

Oh no, more  decisions.  What shall we do tomorrow?  Snorkel at the Indians?  Dive the renowned wreck, the Rhone? Visit the world famous natural wonder, the Baths on Virgin Gorda? Well perhaps we will just find a quiet, secluded anchorage and spend the day swimming, reading the latest best seller, taking another nap, jumping overboard with  mask and snorkel to find those huge, colorful starfish.  All is quiet, just the serenade of the local birds and the sound of the waves this is your sailing vacation.

Is it possible that there are people fighting snow storms, shoveling their driveways,  trying to clear the frost from the windshield.  Wind! Cold Rain!  Not in the islands,  this is paradise and it could be you.

Check out  www. SailWithTerry.com Enjoy the pictures of guests who have escaped the cold and are enjoying a Sailing VacationCaptain Terry is the owner/operator of Manana Maybe and will be happy to talk with you and  assist you in customizing your sailing vacations from old man winter.

Sailing and Diving in the BVI

Oct 25, 2010

There are great diving opportunities while on a sailing vacation in the BVI. Most of the 100+ dive sites are not over 75 feet deep and make for easy and beautiful diving. While most of the dive sites are not deep or demanding, we can arrange for advanced divers a number of challenging dives. With minimal tide fluctuation the diving conditions are normally quite calm so we don’t have many dangerous currents. Since we are just 18º N of the equator the weather is tropical and you are almost certain of beautiful and fun diving. On a sailing vacation you can take a discovery dive if you are not certified diver. This is a great introduction to the world under the sea and a inexpensive way to decide if you want to become a certified diver.

sailing and diving

Karen on Discovery Dive

There is an abundance of sea life and coral where ever you are diving. Manta rays, Caribbean reef sharks,  and spotted eagle rays are not uncommon in the British Virgin Islands, but you will mostly enjoy an incredible number and variety of reef fish. Its not unusual to see huge grouper and snapper, green and spotted morays, turtles and rays, plus lots of tangs, jacks, pompano, spade fish, permits and of course large silver tarpon.

The waters of the British Virgin Islands are protected under the National Parks Trust. It is a top priority for all divers to protect the natural abundance of the reefs. The result is, divers enjoy healthy reefs with an enormous variety of fish. Mooring buoys minimize reef damage and regulations prohibit damaging or removing any plant or animal, keeping the reefs packed with life. Spear fishing is forbidden and the use of gloves discouraged. Visibility is normally in the 40 to 80 feet range, and at times of light wind can be 100 feet, plus. The water temperature stays between 77º and 82º F most of the year.

The combination of a great natural setting, man made regulations and conscience divers makes the BVI a diving paradise. What a vacation great sailing and diving as you go from island to island and reef to reef.

diving in BVI Turtle Siting Long Bay

Caribbean Sailing Trip……….A Winter Wonderland

Forget frigid winds blowing, icy rain, shoveling snow and dreary gray skies.

Enjoy your winter wonderland sailing the warm crystal clear waters of the Caribbean in the British Virgin Islands.

December is a great month for that sunny get away from all of the bustling crowd, frantic traffic and depressing weather. Give you and your family that special gift of fun, sun and adventure.  A sailing charter in the BVI is the ultimate winter get away.

Imagine arising every morning to blue skies, gentle breezes, and the sound of waves lapping the side of the boat.

Caribbean Sailing TripEach day a new island to discover, a new snorkeling or diving adventure. Beautiful sunsets, local entertainment, and then gently rocking to sleep on your floating hotel.

Check out Sailwithterry.com and see guests from all over the world making unforgettable memories on Mañana Maybe, a 51 ‘ Beneteau sailboat with 4 private cabins each with its own bath and vanity. Call Captain Terry and discuss your sailing trip to a winter wonderland in the Caribbean.  Captain Terry is the owner/operator of Mañana Maybe and can customize your sailing adventure.

Manny & Carol’s special retirement trip

Manny & Carol’s special retirement trip sailing in BVI

 

Retirement Sailing Trip

Retirement Sailing Trip

 

 

Cold Winds is to Warm Gently Breeze as Snow is to White Sandy Beaches

Check out the fun sailing in the BVI.  Hoist those sails, warm sun on your face, bright blue skies, clear blue-green water.

A British Virgin Islands sailing vacation on the 51’ Beneteau Sloop, “Mañana Maybe” is a vacation that will be a lasting memory. Your private charted sailboat and your private captain will be at your service.

Maybe a morning exploring the famous Baths on Virgin Gorda, a little snorkeling or sunning on the beach and then a short walk up to the Top of the Baths Restaurant for a breathtaking view on the terrace, all while you enjoy a Bloody Mary and  Eggs Benedict .

When you return, your captain will be ready to sail you to the next destination.   A quiet anchorage? A trip to the Soggy Dollar bar? A hike on Norman’s island?   The choice is yours…

Check out sailwithterry.com and view the pictures and testimonials of guests that have made lasting memories.

Captain Terry is the owner/ operator  of Mañana Maybe and is ready to answer any of your sailing questions.  www.Sailwithterry.com

A Sailing Trip Like No Other

If you’re looking for the perfect sailing trip, a trip that creates memories to last a lifetime, then the British Virgin Islands is the destination for you.

Picture this… you’re sitting on the deck of a yacht at sunset with your loved one seated beside you. you’re anchored just off the shoreline of one of the many islands located in the BVI. You can see people milling about at a local restaurant on the nearby shore, but around you, the air is quiet and peaceful, creating the perfect romantic setting.

As you and your girlfriend sit, holding each other’s hands and watching the sun’s setting rays reflect off the water, you gently slip a ring onto your her finger as you ask for her hand in marriage.

Sounds beautiful, right? Well, this could happen!

If you’re planning a trip to the British Virgin Islands, and you want to make sure your sailing trip is special, and ends with a “yes,” there are certain places that you’ll want to visit that will leave you both breathless and feeling like you’re in another world, created especially for the two of you.

One such place is the beach at Monkey Point on Guana Island. It’s the perfect location for a romantic picnic for two, complete with cheese, crackers, fruit, chocolate and wine.

Afterwords, you could lay out on the white, sandy beach, soaking up the sun’s rays. Or you could take a swim in the water.

On a different day, you could spend time hiking together on the many trails that are found on the islands and trails that allow you to see the local wildlife, like flamingos or brown boobies.

These are just a couple of ideas that would help make a perfect sailing trip and lead to the perfect ending to a perfect vacation.

Four of the Best Snorkeling Locations in the British Virgin Islands

Finding the best snorkeling locations in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) will ensure an exciting sailing vacation for you and your family. The sea life of the region is awesome no matter where you go, but when you find the best place to view these amazing sights, your trip will become even more memorable.

Snorkeling is like swimming in that you don’t need any special clothing other than a bathing suit, but it does require a breathing device which Captain Terry will provide for you.

The British Virgin Islands offer many exotic locations you can snorkel, but here are the top four hot spots for this fun family activity:

1. Loblolly Bay

Loblolly Bay is a very popular site for snorkeling. The lush green landscape surrounds the most vibrant blue water you can find. You won’t have to go far to discover underwater caves, reefs, and schools of fish and shrimp. And the sandy sea floor there is unlike any other location!

2. The Baths

The Baths are very popular as well, which make this another popular location. Snorkelers will find awesome coral ledges and caves that words can’t even describe, unlike any others you may have seen elsewhere.

3. Green Cay

Green Cay is a wonderful place for snorkelers! It offers amazing views of sea life such as angelfish, minnows, snappers, and tarpon. You’ll also see white foaming surf under the water and colored sponges, making this an adventure to remember.

4. The Indians

The Indians offer many things to snorkelers as well. You can enjoy sea creatures, plant life, and other underwater wonders. And the colors are spectacular–above and below the water.

Snorkeling is an exciting, adventure sport that never gets old because you see something new and amazing every time you go. Whether itís a new location or the same place time and time again, once you take your first trip, you’ll be hooked.

The British Virgin Islands offer many locations to snorkel. The four listed here are some of the more popular but there are others and Captain Terry can help you decide which will work best for you.

7 Reasons to Sail the British Virgin Islands

Sailing the British Virgin Islands (BVI) can be a dream come true. The weather is perfect and so enjoyable as to almost feel surreal.  There are many reasons to sail the BVI, but here are seven very good ones to consider

1. Weather

The weather is gorgeous in the BVI. It’s warm almost all the time with temperatures averaging between 70 and 90 degrees year round.

2. Swimming

Swimming in the BVI is amazing. The blue of the water is breathtaking. Whether you swim from the boat or the beach, you’re sure to love it.

3. Diving

Scuba diving and snorkeling in the BVI create an experience to last a lifetime. View authentic sea life below the water’s surface that you’ve only seen on television before!

4. Sandy beaches

The white sand beaches that you’ll find are awe-inspiring. Stroll along during a sunset and you’ll think you’ve found heaven. Let the sand tickle your toes and the breeze blow in your hair for a truly romantic getaway.

5. Food

The restaurants and grills you’ll discover on the beach are phenomenal. Island food is delicious and the service is just as good. After you eat, stick around for the party at one of the many island hot spots. When you travel with Captain Terry, you always have a designated driver, so you can relax and enjoy your night out.

6. Fishing

Fishing in the BVI is another experience you’ll never forget. Flyfish from the beach or line fish from the boat … or do both if that’s what you’d like.

7. The View

The view from the boat will relax and inspire you as you gaze out on the turquoise waters, white beaches, exotic islands and mountains. This land is truly different than anywhere else in the world.

If you’ve ever wondered if you’d like to visit the islands, these seven reasons should convince you. And these are only a few of the many reasons to sail the British Virgin Islands. Book your trip today!

Discover Shipwrecks on a BVI Sailing Vacation

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a tropical paradise full of beauty and views that are unsurpassed by any in the world. But some of these views don’t lie above you, or even around you. In fact, some of the best sights you can see on a BVI sailing vacation are beneath you! These are the fascinating shipwrecks that lie in these beautiful waters.

During your BVI sailing vacation, ask Captain Terry to take you to the RMS Rone. The Rone is not only a historical and magnificent ship, it is also the setting of many different movies, such as The Deep.

Because it has been underwater since 1867, its body is now the home of an entire ecosystem with tropical fish darting around, along with barnacles, coral, and sponges decorating the awesome frame. The hatch is located in about eighty feet of water, making it a perfect adventure for deep sea divers who want an even closer look at the ship’s interiors. Even swimmers who don’t want to go down too far can check out the propeller, which lies in about twenty feet of water.

After that, ask Captain Terry to whisk you twelve miles off the shore of Virgin Gorda, where the shipwreck of the Chikuzen found its way to the bottom of the ocean floor. These waters are home to aquatic life such as sting rays, eagle rays, snappers, barracudas and nurse sharks. Due to the choppy waters and the sometimes dangerous wildlife in the water, its best to only take a dive to the Chikuzen with a qualified and experienced diver.

Next drop anchor at the harbor located in Anegada Island and take a deep sea diving adventure to explore many shipwrecks such as the Rocus and the Paramatta, which are in the waters just a short distance away. These wrecks date back to 1929 and 1859, respectively, and are just two of many of the ships-turned-ecosystems that you’ll find in your diving adventure.

Just be sure to ask Captain Terry to pack the charter boat with lots of scuba gear before you go–these wrecks require more than snorkeling gear.