I just returned from two incredible weeks in the British Virgin Islands (BVI), and I have to say, it was everything I needed and more! The first week was pure leisure with my wife, Liz, and the second week I dove into earning my International Proficiency Certificate to sail in the Mediterranean. Talk about combining fun with purpose!

Flight Drama: The Not-So-Glamorous Start

We flew to Tortola via Miami, and while our Dallas-to-Miami leg went smoothly, the Miami-to-Tortola flight was another story. Due to weather issues, our flight was delayed several times and eventually canceled—along with all other flights to Tortola from Miami and San Juan that day. The silver lining? We were rebooked on the first flight out the next morning, which went off without a hitch.

Except…one of my suitcases decided to take an unplanned detour to San Juan. No worries, though. Thanks to Wheatley Taxi and The Moorings, I knew my luggage would find its way back to me no matter where I was in the BVI. Shoutout to Wheatley and The Moorings for always delivering (literally)! Wheatley retrieved my luggage from the airline and handed it to The Moorings, who sent a chase boat to deliver it to me at Norman Island.

Week 1: Relaxation and Quality Time with Liz

Liz and I spent our first week on “Just Cool,” a 42-foot Leopard catamaran from The Moorings in Road Town, Tortola. Instead of our usual whirlwind tour of all our favorite spots, we took a more laid-back approach and focused on just two destinations: “The Bight at Norman Island” and “The Bitter End Yacht Club” in Virgin Gorda’s North Sound.

This slower pace was “exactly” what we needed. We soaked up the beauty of the islands, enjoyed leisurely days of sailing, and fully embraced the island vibes. No rushing, no stress—just pure bliss.

Before we knew it, it was time for Liz to head back home. We sailed back to The Moorings’ base, where she packed up her things and caught her flight the next morning. Thankfully, her journey back was uneventful (unlike the trip out!).

Week 2: Learning the Ropes (Literally)

The second week was all about building skills and earning certifications. I was joined by Lou, Tim, and his girlfriend, Jenifer. Tim, our instructor, led us through the curriculum for our ASA103, ASA104, and ASA114 certifications, which are key steps toward my International Proficiency Certificate. Tim is a great instructor, and I would highly recommend him to anyone. It was an added benefit that he held the class on our boat, allowing us to save some money. Special thanks to Sarah and Sean O’Leary with Sail Absolutely for the recommendation.

We practiced our sailing skills while visiting some of the most iconic spots in the BVI, including:

• Marina Cay
• The Bitter End Yacht Club
• Anegada (hello, lobster at Potter’s by the Sea!)
• Jost Van Dyke (Soggy Dollar, anyone?)

And of course, we couldn’t skip Trellis Bay for the full moon party. The energy, the music, the fire dancers—it’s an experience like no other!

The Food: A Culinary Adventure

Food in the BVI is always a highlight, and this trip was no exception. Some of the standouts from this trip were:

• The Willy T(a must for fun and great food on the water
• “Potter’s by the Sea” on Anegada (the best place for lobster—hands down)
• Tipsy by Ann and Tipsy Shark (delicious and perfectly laid-back)
• The Bitter End Yacht Club (The Clubhouse is always a treat!)

Each meal felt like a celebration of island life, and every bite reminded me why I keep coming back. An added bonus? I ran into so many people, including Sue, Scott, Cheryl, and their families, who I’ve met online through the BVI Charter Chat Facebook page.

Wrapping Up: Can’t Wait to Return

While at the Bitter End Yacht Club, it was wonderful to see Jim and his famous canine companion, Drake, from the Rum Runner. Jim’s spectacular drinks are delivered right to your boat! I also took eFoil lessons from Niai at BVI eFoils, located at the Bitter End Yacht Club. She was an excellent instructor who helped me get up on the board and speeding throughout the sound.

After a week of relaxation followed by an incredible learning experience, it was time to head home. Thankfully, the flight back was smooth and uneventful (just how I like it).

I’m already counting down the days until my next trip to this slice of paradise. Whether it’s the breathtaking views, the warm island hospitality, or the joy of sailing through crystal-clear waters, the BVI never fails to capture my heart.

Until next time, BVI…see you soon! 

P.S. We prefer to fly direct to Tortola(EIS) via MIA on American Airlines or San Juan (SJU) on Cape Air because it’s a much more streamlined process than flying to St Thomas (STT), taking a taxi to the ferry, then hopping on a one-hour ferry ride and another taxi to the marina. Customs and immigration is also much more streamlined since it’s rarely busy and much smaller. I can also arrive 1.5 hours (less if I throw caution to the wind) before the flight and still be okay. Plus, if something goes wrong, I can simply take a 5-minute walk over to Trellis Bay to enjoy a nice meal or drink at many of the places there, including the Loose Mongoose. Getting stuck at STT is not a very pleasant experience.