One of the world's best kept secrets...Discover a new paradise with each visit
The BVI is comprised of 50 islands and cays in the Caribbean Sea and is well known for its world-class sailing, wonderful people, high standards of living, political stability, safety, natural beauty and tax benefits to non-residents. The official currency of the BVI is the US Dollar.
If you are considering exploring the BVI by boat:
- The year-round climate is balmy with low relative humidity. Temperatures are moderated by trade winds and rarely drop below 77º F (25ºC) in the winter, or rise above 82ºF(28ºC) in the summer.
- Rainfall averages 40 inches per year.
- The islands feature a rich mixture of spectacular topography. Anegada, the northernmost island, is formed from coral and limestone. Other islands, including Virgin Gorda, are mountainous, offering scenic vistas and views.
- Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost Van Dyke are the largest islands.
The pristine waters and breezes of the North Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea offer a playground for all boaters and an ideal setting for the world's best sailing and yachting. The protected waters and predictable climate of the BVI make it an excellent choice as a Caribbean home base for yachts. Owners, captains, and guests will find that the area is perfect for day cruising and touring the area's many sites.
Virgin Gorda Details
Home to YCCS Marina, Virgin Gorda offers a lifestyle and ownership or membership experience like no other. Its dramatic topography has lured visitors to discover the island's stunning beaches, quiet coves, and unparalleled beauty.
Virgin Gorda has long been a prime destination for sailing and yachting enthusiasts. A sailor's paradise, its azure seas play host to protected anchorages and gentle breezes. In addition to being exceptionally beautiful, Virgin Gorda is:
- The third largest island in the BVI
- 10 miles long and 2 miles wide
- 12 miles east of Road Town, Tortola, capital of the BVI
- Approximately 30 miles northeast of St. Thomas
- 95 miles west of St. Barts
BVI Details
The BVI is comprised of 16 inhabited and more than 34 uninhabited islands. Road Town, the capital and largest town, is situated on Tortola. The total population of the BVI is approximately 28,000, with 80% of the population residing on Tortola.
First settled by the Dutch in 1684, the BVI was annexed in 1672 by the English. The islands were granted separate colony status in 1960, and became autonomous in 1967.
The BVI is a self-governed, politically stable British dependent territory. It is recognized around the world as a major offshore financial center and is considered one of the safest destinations in the Caribbean. Additionally, the BVI is among the premier real estate markets in the world with home prices that continue to grow steadily between 7-10% per year. Demand for luxury housing has remained strong, without experiencing the highs and lows (booms and busts) found in other property markets throughout the Caribbean.
A British dependent territory, the BVI includes many British influences. However, the prevailing cultural influences are more American than British.
- The currency is the US Dollar
- The official language is English
- The BVI is situated within the Atlantic Standard Time Zone, GMT-4
With one of the most established and prosperous economies in the Caribbean, tourism and financial services are the preeminent economic drivers. The expanding economy has resulted in a low unemployment rate of approximately 3.3%. The GDP per capita was US $41,000 (2007), one of the highest per capita GDP in the region. There is no income, corporate or personal tax in the BVI. In addition, there is no withholding tax, sales tax, value added tax, capital gains tax, capital transfer tax, estate duty, inheritance tax, or succession tax.
Health Care Resources in the BVI
In the event you require medical care during your stay at the YCCS Marina, several choices are available. Peebles Hospital, a general hospital on Tortola, offers an emergency room staffed 24 hours per day by physicians. This medical facility recently completed a multi-million dollar expansion and is adding new facilities to be completed in 2011.
Both Tortola and Virgin Gorda are served by ambulances staffed with paramedics.
- Clinics on Virgin Gorda are also available.
- The expanded 24-hour Nurse O'Neal Clinic offers immediate care on Virgin Gorda.
- A helipad is available at Oil Nut Bay for emergencies.
- A volunteer organization, Virgin Islands Search and Rescue (VISAR), responds to medical emergencies at sea or on the outer islands. VISAR transports patients to the nearest point for transfer to ambulance. (http://www.visar.org/)
- For individuals who prefer to be transported to the hospital of their choice, Medjet Assist provides an affordable option for individuals and families traveling outside their countries.