Ahoy, fellow adventurers! If you're dreaming of a sun-soaked family getaway where turquoise waters meet pristine beaches, look no further. The British Virgin Islands (BVIs) are calling, and we've crafted the perfect 7-day bareboat itinerary to ensure fun for both parents and kids. Pack your swimsuits, sunscreen, and a sense of adventure – it's time to set sail!

Map of 7 day BVI family friendly itinerary. Note: Approximate travel lines. Not to be used for navigational purposes.

Our family of five, including three adventurous girls aged 12, 10, and 7, loves spending time in the water. Snorkeling, scuba diving, kayaking, swimming, and kiteboarding are our go-to activities. While we also enjoy land-based adventures, it's the thrill of water-based fun that truly inspires us to drop anchor and explore—forming the foundation of this itinerary. We prefer to avoid the party crowd, or really, crowds in general. If you're looking for an adventure-packed but low-key itinerary, here are my suggestions.

Day 1: Tortola to Norman Island

Highlights: The Bight, Pirate's Bight Restaurant, Snorkeling at the Caves

Your journey begins in Tortola, the largest of the BVIs. After a quick briefing and stocking up on essentials, set sail for Norman Island, just a short two-hour sail away. Drop anchor in The Bight, a sheltered bay perfect for swimming or Kelly’s Cove, a more secluded anchorage.

Kelly’s Cove is just outside of The Bight, the more popular anchorage.

The kids will love snorkeling at The Caves, rumored to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's "Treasure Island," or The Indians. End the day with dinner at Pirate's Bight Restaurant.

Day 2: Norman Island to Peter Island

Highlights: White Bay, Deadman’s Beach, Family Fun at the Resort

Set sail for Peter Island, another gem in the BVI chain. Anchor in White Bay and spend the morning exploring its tranquil beaches or embarking on a hike to The Lookout from White Bay, where you'll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands. After lunch, make your way to Deadman’s Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the BVIs.

For a special treat, take a dinghy to the Peter Island Resort & Spa (re-opening October 2024). While the kids play beach games and build sandcastles, parents can enjoy a refreshing cocktail at the beach bar. Dinner on board under the stars will make for a perfect end to the day or go ashore to the Drake Steakhouse or The Drunken Pelican.

Day 3: Peter Island to Virgin Gorda via Fallen Jerusalem or Dive The Wreck of The Rhone

Highlights: Snorkeling at Fallen Jerusalem or Diving the Wreck of the Rhone, Bitter End Yacht Club, Dinner at Saba Rock

Set sail towards Virgin Gorda, offering two exciting options for the day: diving the Wreck of the Rhone or snorkeling at Fallen Jerusalem.

For those who love diving, the Wreck of the Rhone is an incredible underwater adventure. Explore the remains of this historic shipwreck, now home to a vibrant array of marine life. It's an unforgettable experience for experienced divers.

Alternatively, head to Fallen Jerusalem, a less-visited but stunning snorkeling spot. Yes, The Baths are amazing, but who really wants to deal with crowds? The island is a protected area with vibrant marine life and beautiful underwater scenery that the kids will love exploring.

In the late afternoon, sail to the Bitter End Yacht Club, a renowned watersports resort that offers plenty of activities for the whole family. Our kids took a sailing lesson and thought it was fabulous to be on their own. After a day of adventure, take a dinghy ride over to Saba Rock for a delightful dinner with stunning sunset views. Enjoy a laid-back evening, savoring delicious cuisine and recounting the day's experiences.

Day 4: Virgin Gorda to Anegada

Highlights: Flamingo Pond, Loblolly Bay, Cow Wreck Beach, Fresh Lobster Dinner at The Wonky Dog

Get the sails up early and head north for Anegada, the only coral island in the volcanic BVI chain. Anegada was our favorite island and I highly recommend you stay two nights at least. We were a little surprised by how loud the music at Potter’s by the Sea was in the evening. Our next trip we will be sure to grab a mooring ball in the back of the field or just drop anchor.

We rented a truck from L&M and explored the island on our own. Visit the Flamingo Pond to see these elegant birds in their natural habitat. Head to Cow Wreck Beach for a bit of relaxation and beachcombing.

Spend the afternoon at Flash of Beauty or Loblolly Bay, known for their excellent snorkeling. The kids will be thrilled with the vibrant underwater life. The shallow waters are perfect for young swimmers. If you want to see Conch Island and Horseshoe Reef there are great tour options with Kelly’s Land & Sea or SherWin’s Sea Adventures.

Wrap up the day with a famous Anegada lobster dinner at The Wonky Dog, a favorite among locals and visitors alike. Don’t forget to radio your dinner order in before 3:00 pm though.

Day 5: Anegada Island Exploration

Highlights: Tour of the Island, Anegada Beach Club, Flash of Beauty

Spend a full day exploring Anegada. Start with a tour of the island, taking in its unique landscape. Visit the Anegada Beach Club for a luxurious lunch and some beachside relaxation. The club offers various water sports that the whole family can enjoy and there is a free shuttle that runs from The Lobster Trap.

If you enjoy kiteboarding, Anegada is the most beautiful location I have experienced. The coral reef, situated no more than 0.75 miles offshore, creates flat, shallow, and clear waters perfect for twin-tip riding with side to side-on as the typical wind direction. I’ve been fortunate to kite in many amazing locations—Turks & Caicos, Grand Cayman, Bonaire, Aruba, Cabarete, Antigua, Hatteras Island, and more—but Anegada is hands-down my favorite spot. For those interested in learning the sport, Tommy Gaunt operates a school out of Anegada Beach Club. However, my recommendation for learning how to kiteboarding will always be to take the 3 day Zero to Hero Camp at Real Watersports in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

In the afternoon, head to Flash of Beauty, a hidden gem known for its excellent snorkeling. The kids will be thrilled with the vibrant underwater life. Return to your boat in the evening for a quiet family dinner on board or give Sid’s Tomato Point a try.

Day 6: Anegada to Marina Cay via The Dogs

Highlights: Snorkeling at Great Dog,

Set sail early for The Dogs, the uninhabited Dog Islands are about 6 miles northeast of the main island of Tortola and a great stop over on the sail back from Anegada. They offer fantastic snorkeling and diving! Consider the wind and swell direction and pick a sheltered spot with a park buoy and enjoy lunch on the boat. The Chimney and Coral Gardens are great options for snorkeling or diving.

We snorkeled the south side of Great Dog and it was far and away the best snorkeling stop we had in the BVIs. After a refreshing morning of underwater exploration, continue to Marina Cay.

In the late afternoon, sail to Marina Cay. If you walk around to the Northeast side of the island, you may find lots of dead sea urchin shells and possibly some sea glass. You have the option to take a dinghy over to Scrub Island for a special dinner at their resort. Enjoy a quiet family evening, with the gentle rocking of the boat lulling everyone into a restful sleep.

Day 7: Marina Cay to Diamond Cay via Guana Island

Highlights: Snorkeling at Monkey Point, White Bay Beach, Bubbly Pool, Sandy Spit

Sail to Guana Island, a privately owned island with a focus on preserving its natural beauty. Anchor near Monkey Point or in White Bay and spend the morning snorkeling with an array of colorful fish. Visit White Bay Beach for some relaxation. If your kids are into bird watching, take a nature walk to spot some of the island's 50 species of birds.

Anchor at Diamond Cay (12 mooring balls) and visit the Bubbly Pool, a natural rock formation that creates a fun and safe wave pool for the kids to enjoy. Spend the afternoon at Sandy Spit, a tiny, picturesque island perfect for a family picnic and snorkeling adventure. Sandy Spit is also known as Corona Island because there have been several Corona commercials filmed on it. The calm, clear waters are ideal for young swimmers and snorkelers.

Day 8: Diamond Cay to Tortola

Highlights: Relaxation, Views

Start your day with a leisurely breakfast on board, soaking in the serene beauty of Diamond Cay. After breakfast, set sail towards Tortola, enjoying the scenic views and gentle breezes as you navigate through the clear blue waters.

Return to Tortola by noon, where you'll reluctantly hand back your boat and begin planning your next adventure because leaving is most definitely “a problem.”

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The British Virgin Islands offer a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for families. This 7-day itinerary ensures that both kids and adults will have a memorable time exploring the wonders of this Caribbean paradise. So, gather your crew and set sail for a family vacation you'll cherish forever!

Interested in booking your next family vacation? Contact me today to help you get started!

A Family Adventure: 7-Day Bareboat Itinerary in the British Virgin Islands