CARIBBEAN LAP REPORT SV JUBEL

SV JUBEL'S CARIBBEAN LAP

Leah and Kyle aboard SV JUBEL 

SV JUBEL just finished their 1 year lap around the Caribbean.  BRAVO ZULU!  Here they share their story:

We are currently in progress building an HH44 Catamaran in Cebu, Philippines, which will be completed in January 2026.  It's our plan to cross the Pacific to meet the boat so we can move aboard directly from JUBEL. But we didn’t come all this way from Vancouver island to skip the Caribbean.  Having crossed the (Panama) Canal in September 2023, we spent some time in Bocas del Toro, the San Blas, Panama, and Cartagena, Columbia.  Knowing we wanted to see the Caribbean, we decided to do a speed loop of the Windward and Leeward Islands. 

The trip started from Cartagena, Colombia and we set off for Puerto Rico, or maybe the DR, on March 26th, 2024. We didn’t know where we would end up.  We had heard this passage was notoriously bad, and that we may have to divert westward. So loaded with 8 extra jerry cans of diesel, we set off, along with our friends on SV VIA, a Caliber 40LRC (that holds 400+ gallons of diesel!) This trip was exactly what they say it was.  We motored for 700 miles, into the wind and the waves. At times doing 3 knots. We broke our davits due to the constant slamming into the waves. We also had some flat calm days. Overall, we sailed about 10 hours out of the entire 6 days. 

We ended up in Boquerón, Puerto Rico. We spent time cruising Puerto Rico for a month along the southern side of Puerto Rico, and flew home in (to Canada) in May.  Our  highlights are Isla Caja De Muertos, where you can hike up to the top of an abandoned lighthouse, and Isla Culebra for its snorkeling and coral farms, and of course, Costco in San Juan. 

Caja de Muertos Anchorage

With our boat loaded with a years worth of Costco supplies in Puerto Rico we made our way to the USVI’s where it was a surprise that they drive on the opposite side of the road. We spent a few days in St. Thomas, of course, stopping at the pizza boat where we attended a massive memorial day party hosted on a catamaran while we floated in the water.

Memorial day

A few days on the northern side of St. Johns before making our way to the BVIs. We have a dog on board so this was pretty difficult to sort out, as you have to have a lot of paperwork and health check proofs. We met the vet in Soper’s hole where he had to inspect Ricky, our dog, in person. Once that was dealt with we made our way to pussers for a rum! This was the first island we considered “the Caribbean”, and we made it! 

We spent three weeks bouncing around the BVIs including Norman Island (and the infamous Willy Ts, where we floated behind it in our Sunchill, met friends, and had beers thrown into our pool!

Floating behind Willy T's in our Sunchill making friends and catching beers.

Anchoring at the Baths, (where our engine died coming into the anchorage, that turned out to be ricky leaning on the shutoff button!), and spending time in Virgin Gorda was also great. Our favorite anchorages were Savannah bay, and the north side of Prickly Pear Island.  Having the Rum Runner bring us blended cocktails right to our boat was (also) a highlight, along with visits to Saba Rock. 

From The BVIs we checked out and headed to St. Martin, stopping at the French side first. The beaches here were phenomenal. While a little run down, its very pretty, and the French food supply is amazing. We had FKG rigging come out to the boat by dinghy to give us an estimate for the standing rigging replacement that we needed. They gave us a very, very reasonable estimate and we headed over to their dock on the dutch side to have the work done. A week later, everything was brand new. Highly recommend them!  We also had a new generator motor shipped here and replaced that, as our previous one had water ingress due to a manufacturing defect. St. Maarten is an amazing location for boat work and supply, especially since its all tax free. There are also great restaurants here, where we met up with some other Young Cruisers and talked shop, so we will definitely come back at some point. St. Maarten is a hit on our list! 

Our next stop was Guadeloupe. It was here that we rode out hurricane Beryl. On the west side of the island behind the mountain, we set out a 10-1 scope in 20 feet of water. Luckily (for us, certainly not the islands south of us) it headed south. We were hit with 35 knots of wind and a ton of rain, but otherwise, unscathed. After the weather cleared, the view was beautiful. 

Guadeloupe after Hurricane Beryl passed to the south

We worked our way down Guadeloupe, and anchored in some very rolly anchorages - There is not much for protection on this side of the island. We stopped in several hot springs and enjoyed the natural hot water that comes out all over the island. After an absolutely brutal sail crossing from Guadeloupe to Terre-de-Haut, a group of small islands south of Guadeloupe, we went to explore and island and old fort. There is a really cute little town (but not much for food available) that you can explore. 

SV JUBEL on anchor in Terre de Haut

From there we made our way to the jewel of the Caribbean, Dominica. I can not say enough about this place. It is, by far, our favourite locale in the caribbean. Absolutely untouched and unspoiled. There were no tourists, the locals were the friendliest people we have ever met, and would do anything for you. The natural beauty of this island is absolutely stunning.Waterfalls, valleys, hot springs, gorges - It has it all. 

Dominica

What it doesn’t have are services, restaurants, fuel docks, or supply shops. You are on your own. So bring what you need, and stay as long as you can. We grabbed a mooring ball in Portsmouth bay for $10 a night, where the PAY (Portsmouth Association of Yacht Services) will come out to the boat and give you anything you need, and help you check in.  We rented a car from a local company (that we had to swap out three times because they were not in great shape - Old cars imported from Japan), they also drive on the British side of the road (in Dominica). Its like driving in the game “crazy taxi”. We drove all over the island over 5 days. 

Dominica Hot Springs
Dominica waves

We went to visit Titou gorge where they filmed parts of the Pirates of the Caribbean

Titou Gorge

Overall, Dominica gets a 10/10 for us. We will be back to this island before our cruising career is over. Its got so much to offer, and so much that we haven’t seen, for a small island.  Our provisions were running low so it was time to carry on. We made our way to Martinique from here, where we knew we could provision. And provision we did. Wine, cheese, butter, oh my. The French have food nailed down. We were here during a summer festival and I have never seen so many boats on the move, ever. 

Martinique

Martinique was the busiest place we’d ever been. The bays were full, with hundreds if not thousands of boats. It was way too busy for us. And they’re very not dog friendly. So after we provisioned, we carried on down to Grenada. We skipped St. Lucia for safety concerns, and therefore had to skip St. Vincent and the Grenadines due to our dog and rabies rules. That, and its been hit hard by Beryl at this point. 

Grenada became our home for about a month and a half while we waited for hurricane season to subside slightly. The next stop after this was Bonaire, so hurricanes weren’t a big concern. We met up with friends, enjoyed copious wing nights, went snorkeling, and hauled out because we had won a free haul out from Spice Island Marine at the Young Cruisers Association Cruisers Awards. We were here for Carnival which was amazing. 

Carnival Oil
Carnival Fire show

We had tried out all the anchorages and there was a weather window coming. It was September at this point, so it was time to carry on to Bonaire. After a sporty 3 day sail downwind (oh how nice it was to go downwind finally, after beating our way east all the way to Dominica), we arrived in Bonaire. The water clarity blew our minds.

Bonaire water clarity blew our minds
Bonaire beach time

 However, the lack of Starlink was frustrating after having it for so long. So back to a cell phone data plan we went, we spent our days snorkeling and swimming. We rented a car and drove around the whole island, stopping to feed the roadside donkeys apples and carrots. 

 

 

 

Donkeys lean in for some apples and carrots

Bonaire was definitely another highlight. The freediving and snorkeling is amazing. Its everything its cracked up to be. 

We skipped Curacao and headed to Aruba to meet friends and for my parents to fly in. We loved Aruba - Dove on a shipwreck, swam with turtles, went out to fantastic restaurants, played some slot machines, had some pool days at the Hyatt pool, and even found a Canadian bar that had Poutine and took Canadian money! 

Now here we are in Cartagena once again, having crossed our track when we left 8 months ago, so very happy we traveled where we did and saw what we saw. The experiences will stick with us forever, and we hope to go back to some of the islands once again in the future. Now, its time to go back to San Blas one more time before we prepare for our grand adventure across the Pacific! 

 

SY JUBEL 🇨🇦 Leah & Kyle - Gulfstar 44'

THANK YOU FOR SHARING YOUR HIGHLIGHTS FROM YOUR 8 MONTH CARIBBEAN LOOP

 

JUBEL


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VIRGIN GORDA YACHT HARBOUR 🇻🇬 SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

VIRGIN GORDA YACHT HARBOUR 🇻🇬 SPONSORS THE OCEAN POSSE

18° 26.9633′ N   064° 26.2316′ W

MARINA

Sail into a world of luxury and exceptional service at Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour marina. Our haven is meticulously designed to surpass your expectations, offering cutting-edge facilities tailored for vessels of all sizes. Experience the seamless blend of sophistication and functionality as you anchor in a sanctuary that redefines nautical excellence.

Discounts at VIRGIN GORDA YACHT HARBOUR  for participating OCEAN POSSE VESSELS

We will offer a 15% discount for normal rates at our Marina docking fees for the Members of the Community.

We will offer a 15% discount on lay day rates for boatyard stays (for repairs or works on our facility).

This discount is not valid with other discounts or offers we may have.

Availability to this sponsorship is subject to reservation and space.

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AMENITIES

  • Recently renovated bathrooms and shower rooms
  • Chandlery
  • Fuel Dock
  • Pump-out waste disposal
  • Laundry
  • Fitness Center
  • Dive BVI diving and boat trips
  • Spa
  • Fitness Center
  • Island tours via taxi drivers
  • Concierge service
  • Complimentary WiFi throughout the yacht harbour

Marina Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour Header

CONTACT

  • Alejandro Chometowski
  • General Manager
  • VIRGIN GORDA YACHT HARBOUR 
  • P.O. Box 1005,Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands. VG 1150
  • T: (284) 499-5500
  • M: (284) 499-5577
  • www.vgyh.vg

SAVE APPROACH



LOCATION

OFFICIAL WEBSITE

https://www.vgyh.vg/marina


BVI digital Charts headers

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS DIGITAL CHARTS

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS DIGITAL CHARTS IN MBTILES FORMAT

THE ABOVE FILES ARE FOR LOGGED IN USERS ONLY


BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 🇻🇬 Cruising the BVI's with the Ocean Posse

🇦🇼 Aruba🇵🇹 Azores🇧🇸 Bahamas🇧🇿 Belize🇧🇲 Bermuda🇧🇶 Bonaire🇻🇬 British Virgin Islands🇮🇨 Canary Islands🇰🇾 Cayman Islands🇺🇸 California🇨🇻 Cape Verde🇨🇱 Chile🇨🇴 Colombia🇨🇰 Cook Islands🇨🇷 Costa Rica🇨🇺 Cuba🇨🇼 Curacao🇩🇴 Dominican Republic🇩🇲 Dominica🇪🇨 Ecuador🇸🇻 El Salvador🇫🇯 Fiji🇵🇫 French Polynesia🇪🇨 Galapagos🇬🇮 Gibraltar🇬🇵 Guadeloupe🇬🇹 Guatemala🇺🇸 Hawai'i🇭🇳 Honduras🇮🇹 Italy🇯🇲 Jamaica🇰🇮 Kiribati🇵🇹 Madeira🇲🇹 Malta🇲🇶 Martinique🇲🇽 Mexico🇲🇸 Montserrat🇲🇦 Morocco🇳🇨 New Caledonia🇳🇿 New Zealand🇳🇮 Nicaragua🇳🇺 Niue🇵🇦 Panama🇵🇳 Pitcairn Islands🇵🇹 Portugal🇵🇷 Puerto Rico🇧🇶 Saba🇼🇸 Samoa🇸🇧  Solomon Islands🇰🇳 St. Kitts and Nevis🇪🇸 Spain🇹🇴 Tonga🇹🇨 Turks and Caicos🇻🇮 US Virgin Islands🇺🇸 USA East Coast🇻🇺 Vanuatu🇻🇪 Venezuela🇼🇫 Wallis and Futuna

BVI

1. Introduction to the British Virgin Islands (BVI)

  • Setting the Scene: A brief on the allure of the BVIs, including unique geography, the steady trade winds, and a welcoming maritime culture.
  • Ideal for Yachts: Why the BVIs stand out as a destination for experienced cruisers who own their yachts, emphasizing exploration beyond the main charter routes.

2. Navigational Insights for Yacht Owners

  • Key Ports and Anchorages: Dive into top ports like Road Town, Soper’s Hole, and the Yacht Harbour at Virgin Gorda, detailing mooring availability, facilities, and local contacts.
  • Weather Patterns and Seasons: Discuss seasonal wind variations, hurricane season, and tips on safe anchoring and navigating currents for those familiar with their own yachts.
  • Regulations: Outline customs, immigration processes, and cruising permits for yacht owners.

3. Iconic Destinations and Hidden Gems

  • Main Attractions: Describe famed spots like The Baths, Anegada’s beaches, and Norman Island’s caves. Include tips on where to dock or anchor and nearby services.
  • Off-the-Beaten-Path: Highlight lesser-known spots, like Diamond Cay, Salt Island, and Monkey Point, which are often bypassed by charter companies.

4. Cruising Culture in the BVIs

  • Connecting with Other Yacht Owners: Tips on where to meet fellow cruisers, such as local yacht clubs, waterfront cafes, and marinas known for friendly communities.
  • Supporting Local Businesses: Insights on recommended local eateries, marine supply stores, and boat maintenance services that support independent yacht owners.

5. Practical Tips for Longer Stays

  • Provisioning and Refueling: Locations for groceries, refueling, and fresh water access; tips for extended voyages, including popular spots for local produce.
  • Marine Services: Information on the best spots for repairs, dive services, and yacht detailing.
  • Staying Connected: Options for WiFi and cell coverage, plus where cruisers can expect to find quiet spots with minimal connectivity for true seclusion.

6. Environmental Responsibility and Community Initiatives

  • Sustainable Sailing: Encourage practices like mindful anchoring and minimizing waste. Tips on where to dispose of waste responsibly in the BVIs.
  • Conservation and Volunteering: Outline any ongoing efforts, such as coral restoration and beach clean-ups, where yacht owners can contribute.

7. Seasonal Events and Local Festivities

  • Sailing Events: Feature local regattas or festivals, such as the BVI Spring Regatta, and what yacht owners can expect during these times.
  • Local Celebrations: Share notable cultural events in the BVIs that give a deeper connection to the area and its people.

This outline ensures coverage of essential details, from practical insights to unique, immersive experiences that resonate with seasoned yacht owners looking to savor the BVIs at their own pace.

MARINAS

🇻🇬 BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS














Tortola:

  • Nanny Cay Marina: Located between Road Town and West End, Nanny Cay offers 180 berths, a boatyard, hotel accommodations, restaurants, and various marine services.
  • Village Cay Marina: Situated in Road Town, this marina provides 106 slips for vessels up to 190 feet, along with amenities like a hotel, restaurant, pool, and provisioning options.
  • Soper’s Hole Wharf & Marina: Found on the western side of Tortola at Frenchman’s Cay, Soper’s Hole features 43 slips, 18 moorings, dining, shopping, and other facilities.
  • Hodges Creek Marina: Located in Maya Cove, this marina offers docking facilities and serves as a base for several charter companies.
  • Penn’s Landing Marina: A tranquil, private marina in Fat Hog’s Bay, East End, providing a range of yacht and boat services year-round.
  • Road Reef Marina: Positioned in Road Town, offering docking facilities and marine services.
  • Fort Burt Marina: Also in Road Town, providing docking and related amenities.

Virgin Gorda:

  • Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour: Located in Spanish Town, this marina offers docking facilities, a boatyard, shopping, and dining options.
  • Leverick Bay Resort and Marina: Situated in North Sound, Leverick Bay provides slips, moorings, fuel, water, and resort amenities.
  • Bitter End Yacht Club: Located in North Sound, offering docking facilities and resort services.
  • Saba Rock Resort: A small island resort in North Sound with docking facilities for guests.

Scrub Island:

  • Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina: This private island resort offers a 55-slip marina accommodating vessels up to 170 feet, along with luxury resort amenities.

Peter Island:

  • Peter Island Resort & Yacht Harbour: Located on Peter Island, offering docking facilities and resort services.

Anegada:

  • Anegada Reef Hotel Marina: Provides limited docking facilities primarily for guests of the hotel.

WEATHER

WIND

SWELL WAVE

BVI HISTORIC HURRICANE TRACKS

PILOT CHARTS

BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS  Pilot Charts provide historic points and aggregated information of  wind flows, air and ocean temperatures, wave heights, rain, barometric weight, and climate conditions at various seasons. This data was acquired from oceanographic and meteorologic perceptions over hundreds of years starting in the late eighteenth century. These diagrams are planned to help mariners choose routes around and approaching Cuba with respect to the normal climate and sea conditions using prevailing seasonal wind information.

PORTS OF ENTRY

🇻🇬 BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS





DOCUMENTS

MUST SEE

1. The Baths, Virgin Gorda

  • Why Visit: A geological wonder with massive granite boulders forming natural pools, caves, and grottos.
  • Best Time: Early morning in winter (November–March) to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler weather.

2. Gorda Peak National Park

  • Why Visit: Offers panoramic views of the islands and is home to diverse flora and fauna.
  • Best Time: December–April for clear skies and ideal hiking conditions.

3. Anegada Island

  • Why Visit: Known for secluded beaches, salt ponds, and the Caribbean’s best lobster.
  • Best Time: November–April to avoid intense summer heat.

4. Cane Garden Bay, Tortola

  • Why Visit: Pristine beach with clear waters, lively beach bars, and local restaurants.
  • Best Time: December–March for the most vibrant beach scene.

5. Jost Van Dyke’s White Bay

  • Why Visit: A beautiful beach with crystal waters, famous for its beach bars, including the Soggy Dollar Bar.
  • Best Time: November–April, especially around New Year’s for Foxy’s Old Year’s Night party.

6. Norman Island

  • Why Visit: Known for excellent snorkeling, especially at the Caves and the Indians.
  • Best Time: May and October for fewer crowds and calm waters.

7. Rhone National Marine Park

  • Why Visit: Explore the wreck of the RMS Rhone, one of the most famous Caribbean dive sites.
  • Best Time: Year-round for diving, with November–April offering the best conditions.

8. Sandy Cay

  • Why Visit: Tiny island with a lush interior, hiking trails, and untouched beaches.
  • Best Time: December–April to avoid high temperatures.

9. Smuggler’s Cove, Tortola

  • Why Visit: Secluded and beautiful, it’s a favorite for snorkeling and beach lounging.
  • Best Time: Early morning in December–March for peace and quiet.

10. Cooper Island

  • Why Visit: Known for its eco-resort, good snorkeling, and vibrant coral reefs.
  • Best Time: November–April for ideal weather and water conditions.

11. Foxy’s Tamarind Bar, Jost Van Dyke

  • Why Visit: A legendary spot with live music and great Caribbean vibes.
  • Best Time: December–March, with New Year’s being a particularly festive time.

12. Bubbly Pool, Jost Van Dyke

  • Why Visit: A natural “jacuzzi” formed by waves rushing through rocks.
  • Best Time: Visit between November–April when seas are calmer, for safer exploring.

13. Peter Island

  • Why Visit: Pristine beaches and excellent snorkeling, especially Deadman’s Bay.
  • Best Time: December–April for the best beach conditions.

14. Saba Rock

  • Why Visit: Small island resort known for dining, drinks, and a relaxed atmosphere.
  • Best Time: Year-round, but more festive in winter months (November–April).

15. Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke

  • Why Visit: Anchoring spot for those visiting local bars and exploring the island.
  • Best Time: December–March, when the harbor is lively yet not overly crowded.

16. Long Bay Beach, Tortola

  • Why Visit: Beautiful stretch of sand with fewer crowds, perfect for beach walks.
  • Best Time: Morning hours in November–April.

17. Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda

  • Why Visit: A quaint town with shops, restaurants, and a historic copper mine.
  • Best Time: Year-round, but more vibrant December–April.

18. Scrub Island

  • Why Visit: Known for luxury resorts, excellent snorkeling, and pristine beaches.
  • Best Time: December–April to enjoy the best resort experience.

19. Anegada’s Horseshoe Reef

  • Why Visit: Largest coral reef in the Caribbean and a paradise for divers.
  • Best Time: February–April for calm seas and good visibility.

20. Little Harbour, Jost Van Dyke

  • Why Visit: A peaceful bay with excellent dining, including fresh seafood.
  • Best Time: November–April for ideal dining and relaxation conditions.

21. Mount Sage National Park

  • Why Visit: Highest peak in the BVIs, offering incredible hiking trails.
  • Best Time: November–April for cool temperatures.

22. Salt Island

  • Why Visit: Known for salt ponds and the wreck of the RMS Rhone.
  • Best Time: November–April for historical exploration and diving.

23. Marina Cay

  • Why Visit: Small island with calm waters, ideal for a peaceful retreat.
  • Best Time: Year-round, though busiest from December to March.

24. Belmont Bay, Tortola

  • Why Visit: Remote bay with beautiful waters and scenic views.
  • Best Time: Late spring (April–May) or early fall (September–October) for solitude.

 

REPAIRS AND SERVICE PROVIDERS

1. B&G Marine Services

  • Location: Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola
  • Services: Yacht management, mechanical and electrical repairs, metal fabrication, shipwright services, and refits.
  • Phone: +1 284-345-2656
  • Email: ted.reshetiloff@bgbvi.com
  • Website: bgbvi.com

2. Marine Maintenance Services BVI Ltd.

  • Location: Road Town, Tortola
  • Services: Main engine and generator replacement, air conditioning installations, refrigeration and watermaker repairs, electrical services, and hydraulic press system operations.
  • Phone: +1 284-494-3494
  • Email: Contact via website
  • Website: superyachtservicesguide.com

3. Aquadoc

  • Location: Nanny Cay Marina, Tortola
  • Services: Authorized service agent and dealer for Fischer Panda generators and Spectra Watermakers; certified Kohler Generator repair facility; electrical works, refrigeration and air conditioning, inboard and outboard motor maintenance.
  • Phone: +1 284-346-7643
  • Email: aquadocmarine@surfbvi.com
  • Website: superyachtservicesguide.com

4. A&J Marine

  • Location: Virgin Gorda
  • Services: Yacht maintenance, management, charter vacation itinerary planning, guest services, and BVI maritime compliance assistance.
  • Phone: +1 284-541-6861
  • Email: info@aandjmarine.com
  • Website: aandjmarine.com

5. Pitt Marine

  • Location: Leverick Bay Marina, Virgin Gorda
  • Services: Chandlery, marine supplies, yacht services, dockside support, project management, and maintenance support.
  • Phone: +1 284-547-3636
  • Email: Contact via website
  • Website: pittmarine.com

6. SS Marine

EMERGENCIES AND SAR INFO