Drinks, Dinghies and Hidden Reefs: Sailing Jost Van Dyke
A compact Caribbean island where yacht anchors, reef swims and rum-soaked sunsets define the day.
The boat eases up to a sugar-white crescent and the engine ticks down to a polite hum. You untie the dinghy and step onto sand that seems to push back like a warm, welcome hand—salt and sun already on your skin. White Bay, Jost Van Dyke’s most famous shore, unfolds behind a low ridge of scrub and boulders: a sloping arc of palms, a clutch of bars and grills, and a horizon where yachts hang like punctuation marks. Around you the water is layered—turquoise near the sand, a bright lapis farther out, and at the edge of the reef a glassy dark band that dares you to swim out and see.
Trail Wisdom
Use mooring balls where available
Anchorages can be reef-fragile—use moorings if offered to avoid damaging coral.
Bring reef shoes
Shallow approaches and rocky trails are common; reef shoes protect feet in the shallows and on limestone paths.
Carry cash
Many bars and local vendors prefer cash—ATMs are not guaranteed on the island.
Start early for quiet beaches
White Bay fills with day charters after mid-morning; dawn arrivals get the sand to themselves.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Sandy Spit—an exposed white sand cay ideal for a quiet picnic
- •The Indians—rocky islets with excellent snorkeling and dramatic underwater topography
Wildlife
green and hawksbill sea turtles, frigatebirds and brown pelicans
Conservation Note
Anchoring practices and sunscreen choice affect reefs—use moorings, avoid anchoring on coral and choose reef-safe sunscreen to protect marine life.
Named after Dutch privateer Joost van Dyk, the island’s maritime history shaped early settlement patterns and seafaring traditions.
Seasonal Guide
spring
Best for: calm seas, snorkeling, day-charters
Challenges: intermittent showers, occasional wind shifts
Spring (March–May) offers warm water and steady trade winds—good for snorkeling and sailing, with occasional passing showers.
summer
Best for: fewer crowds, long daylight, sailing to nearby cays
Challenges: heat and humidity, hurricane season risk
Summer brings quieter beaches and long days but increases heat, humidity and the risk of tropical storms.
fall
Best for: lower prices, calm mornings, wildlife spotting
Challenges: higher storm risk, variable sea conditions
Autumn can be rewarding for quieter marinas and good early-morning conditions but carries the highest hurricane risk.
winter
Best for: stable trade winds, best sailing conditions, peak visibility for snorkeling
Challenges: higher visitor numbers, slightly higher prices
Winter (Dec–Apr) is the island’s high season: steady winds and clear water, so plan and book ahead.
Photographer's Notes
What to Bring
Reef shoesEssential
Protects feet from sharp coral and rocky shore approaches.
Snorkel and maskEssential
Essential for seeing the shallow coral gardens and turtles without relying on rental gear.
Light windbreaker
Useful for cool evening breezes and spray when moving between anchorages.
Cash and waterproof pouchEssential
Many beachside vendors accept only cash; keep bills dry and handy.
Common Questions
How do I get to Jost Van Dyke?
Most visitors arrive by ferry or private boat from Tortola (Road Town) or by charter from nearby islands; private charters offer flexibility and shorter crossing times.
Are there places to eat on the island?
Yes—Great Harbour and White Bay have several beach bars and grills serving seafood and local dishes, but options are limited so bring water and snacks if you arrive late.
Can I anchor my own boat?
Yes, but use mooring buoys where available and avoid dropping anchors on coral; check local guidance from harbor officials or experienced captains.
Is snorkeling good off the beaches?
Very good—there are healthy shallow reefs and snorkel sites near The Indians and around the cays; bring your own snorkel gear for the best experience.
Are there hiking trails?
There are short, often rocky trails to ridgelines and viewpoints—expect modest elevation gains and loose terrain, so wear appropriate footwear.
Is Jost Van Dyke suitable for families?
Yes—families do well with calm sheltered beaches and short hikes, but supervise children around reef edges and in areas without lifeguards.
What to Pack
reef shoes, snorkel and mask, reef-safe sunscreen, cash (for bars and vendors)
Did You Know
Jost Van Dyke is named after Joost van Dyk, a 17th-century Dutch privateer and trader who established early settlements and trading routes in the Virgin Islands.
Quick Travel Tips
1) Book charters in advance during winter; 2) Bring cash—local vendors may not take cards; 3) Use mooring buoys to protect reef; 4) Start early for quieter beaches and better snorkeling.
Local Flavor
Expect grilled fish, rum punches and reggae. Great Harbour’s small eateries reflect a tight-knit marine culture—fishermen, boat crews and local artisans converge where the water meets the sand.
Logistics Snapshot
Getting there: ferry or private charter from Tortola. Money: cash recommended. Facilities: limited—basic restaurants and bars, few ATMs. Anchoring: use moorings when possible.
Sustainability Note
Choose reef-safe sunscreens, use mooring buoys instead of anchors, dispose of waste responsibly and support local businesses to keep economic benefits on-island.