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USVI Travel Guide

Consistent year-round weather, steady trade winds, friendly people, and warm, clear water! Yes, the Virgin Islands but not the British, the U.S. Familiar yet exotic culture, easy access, fantastic beaches; short distances between the islands, plenty of excellent snorkeling and diving sites, local restaurants, and fun beach bars, the U.S. Virgin Islands, are a fantastic place for a yacht charter.

usvi travel guide sailing itinerary

Here is the essential Boatjump guide for visitors to the U.S. Virgin Islands

 

Made up of 3 main islands, The U.S. Virgin Islands are located in the Virgin Islands archipelago, 59 miles from Puerto Rico. Direct flights to St Thomas’ Cyril E. King International Airport make the USVI easy to reach from the mainland.

 

Known for their white sand beaches, including Magens Bay and Trunk Bay, a National park and a haven for turtles, each of the Islands offer different experiences. 

 

Island highlights 

 

St Thomas 

St. Thomas is the most cosmopolitan island while still retaining a Caribbean paradise feeling with duty-free shopping, spectacular diving, and world-class dining, as well as a world-renowned golf course. St Thomas also has some famous beaches; Magens Bay has a secluded shoreline with calm water perfect for kayaking and swimming. The waters are clear, but the sandy ocean bottom is not ideal for snorkeling.

 

Just off the eastern coast sits Christmas Cove, a sheltered oasis on Great St. James Island. Sea turtles live in the surrounding clear waters that make for spectacular snorkeling. Feeling hungry? Venture inland and feast on fresh-caught lobster at one of the seaside restaurants.

 

St John

The smallest of the three main U.S. Virgin Islands, St. John’s unspoiled beauty is perhaps the best in the Caribbean, with two-thirds of the island designated as a national park. St. John has some of the world’s most beautiful beaches; Trunk Bay is renowned for its crystal sands and underwater nature trail. Francis Bay is a calm and secluded spot with white sand and excellent swimming and snorkeling. Honeymoon Beach is one of the most iconic places on St. John; visit Bikinis on the Beach Bar & Grill and enjoy some time soaking up the sun at this beautiful beach. 

 

Once ashore, explore the national park; there is a hike for every experience level with over two dozen trails. Or explore Cruz Bay, the main town on the island, check out Mongoose Junction houses a cluster of beautiful shops, restaurants, and businesses with its beautiful Caribbean architecture.

 

St Croix 

St. Croix, the largest of the US Virgin Islands and is a tranquil tropical destination, perfect for honeymooners, culture seekers, and scuba divers. Experience the unique culture of St. Croix during the many festivals throughout the year. St. Croix provides gorgeous beaches, world-class recreational activities, fine dining, a casino, and golf. Explore one of the two main towns of St. Croix, Christiansted and Frederiksted to get a glimpse of the island’s incredible history

 

LOCAL WEATHER AND SAILING CONDITIONS

 

The U.S. Virgin Islands enjoy a tropical climate, with little seasonal change throughout the year. Rainfall is concentrated in the summer high sun period June through October, making the best time to visit November through May. Summer and winter high temperatures only differ by 5 °F with an average of 83 °F year-round. 

 

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