Spend 7 days on board luxury yacht Octopussy in the British Virgin Islands

White Bay

A certain British entrepreneur may have put the British Virgin Islands on the luxury travel map, but sailors know the archipelago’s attractions extend far beyond Necker Island. These charming islands are home to reef-lined beaches, clear waters and the finest cruising grounds in the Caribbean. This itinerary balances adrenalin-fuelled activities with picturesque anchorages and the odd rum cocktail thrown in for good measure.

Captain Caleb Semtner of 44 metre Octopussy, available for charter with Y.CO, reveals how to make the most of this idyllic Caribbean destination

Day 1: White Bay

Meet Octopussy in a secluded anchorage in White Bay, a white sand beach on the 3.4 square kilometre private Guana Island. There are several great snorkelling options nearby in crystal clear water – with small colourful coral patches ideal for beginners.

Picture courtesy of Shutterstock.com / John Walker

Norman Island

The stunning coastal trip to Norman Island, passing between Great Camanoe and Beef Island, normally takes one to two hours and there are several good lunch spots along the way. At Norman, explore the many excellent dive sites off neighbouring Pelican Island, as well as The Indians, just outside The Bight anchorage. Afterwards, tender to the Willy T floating bar to take in one of the best sunset spots.

Picture courtesy of Alamy.com / Kelly van Dellen

Peter Island

Early in the morning, Octopussy will head to Peter Island Yacht Club, a secure marina nestled inside Sprat Bay. Guests can take advantage of the resort’s outstanding spa facilities and three pristine private beaches. In the evening, dine on fresh cuisine prepared on board, or go ashore to eat out at one of Peter Island’s excellent restaurants.

Picture courtesy of Alamy.com / Diego Pagani

The Baths

Head to one of the best beaches in the Caribbean, The Baths – granite boulders that form sheltered sea pools on the beach – for a gourmet barbeque lunch. A short hike up the sands, take in an amazing bird’s eye view from the top of a local bar. Then go on a sunset cruise into Gorda Sound.

Picture courtesy of Alamy.com / Blue Orange Studio

Gorda Sound

The protected anchorage of Gorda Sound has much to keep guests busy, from bars and restaurants to watersports spots and private beaches. Hiking, sailing lessons and kiteboarding sessions are also on offer. Or spend a day in Road Town in Tortola — the capital and “big city” of the BVIs.

Picture courtesy of Alamy.com / Danita Delimont

Jost Van Dyke

Octopussy will make way for the island of Jost Van Dyke. If the weather is settled, there is a phenomenal dive site on nearby Mercurius Rock. The island has a lively nightlife, too – start at Soggy Dollar Bar, dance to live music at Foxy’s and eat out at Club Paradise, all of which are iconic yachty watering holes.

Picture courtesy of Alamy.com / Marjorie McBride

Marina Cay

Guests who rise early have time for one final excursion to Marina Cay for a last-minute BVI beach trip. Once everyone is awake, Octopussy will make her way back across the channel before tendering guests to Trellis Bay for departure.

Picture courtesy of Robert Harding

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