January report on Virgin Islands cruising

[doublewide]

Are any readers currently cruising in the Virgin Islands? Will you please comment on the conditions there now, January 2018? Will we enjoy a visit there in February and March?

[Paul L]

Here's a blog update from friends who just sailed through the VIs from Puerto Rico
TivoliCruise

[PapaLulu]

Depends on what you’re interested in. I just returned from STT and spoke with the crew at CYOA Yacht Charters. As I have heard from others, the sailing and locations in the USVI, BVI and Spanish VI are uncrowned and often resemble the ‘golden’ times with fewer boats. Many service locations are back with either limited or full services. If you’re looking for gourmet ice cream at each location then you might be disappointed. The diving, scenery and sailing can’t be beat right now, IMHO. Much of the greenery has returned. There are a few spots just getting back (e.g. Spanish Town) but have services coming back online every day.

[doublewide]

Thanks. Any more replies?

[brucebach]

Take a look at this blog - they are currently cruising in the Virgin Islands: svIslandSpirit.com - Sailing between Maine and the Caribbean Sea

[pillars]

We just spent 2 weeks in the BVIs (Dec 2-16) on a bareboat charter (42 foot Lagoon). We noticed a significant difference in boat traffic between the first week and second week we were there. So it seemed to be picking up in terms of boat traffic.

In terms of nature, so water, reefs, hills, beaches, etc. it was beautiful and unaffected by hurricane damage. Also since there we no crowds anywhere one could enjoy the nature without people.

In terms of man made infrastructure:
-some restaurants/bars were open, but most were not
-lots of storm damage to buildings and building materials to be cleaned up
-lots of construction and clean up effort on all the islands
-lots of space on mooring and anchoring spots - no need to arrive early
-no problems getting provisions
-only one marina had fuel at the time (Nanny Cay) - had to plan around it but not a huge problem
-fresh water for boat was a problem (we had to keep coming back to our base to refill) - was told that it was not available anywhere else, and we didn't try

So, in summary, if you are looking to party/restaurants like before the hurricane you'll probably be disappointed. If you are looking to sail and enjoy nature, it's probably the best time to go.