BVI vs the Grenadines — which is the better charter destination?
The British Virgin Islands and St Vincent & The Grenadines are the two headline charter destinations in the Caribbean. We broker charters in both, so this is written from experience rather than a marketing brochure.
Sailing — the BVI is famously easy. Islands are close together, line-of-sight navigation, mooring balls almost everywhere. The Grenadines involves longer passages (Bequia to Tobago Cays is about 30 nautical miles), more open water, and proper trade-wind sailing. If you want to actually sail, come south.
Anchorages — the BVI has more marinas, more moorings and more restaurants ashore. The Grenadines has fewer boats, wilder anchorages, and postcard reefs like the Tobago Cays with almost no development. The BVI can feel busy in season; Chatham Bay on Union Island will often have five boats in it.
Crowds and vibe — the BVI is the most popular charter ground in the world, and it feels like it, especially at Christmas and half-term. The Grenadines is quieter, more local, and the ashore experience is Caribbean life rather than a charter-focused strip.
Cost — bareboats are broadly similar; crewed catamarans are typically 10–20% cheaper in the Grenadines for equivalent boats. Flights to St Vincent add a connection from Barbados or Miami, so factor that in.
Our verdict — first Caribbean charter with kids and a nervous skipper: BVI. Second or third charter, keen sailors, or anyone who wants the anchorage almost to themselves: Grenadines. For the full comparison see our guide at /plan-your-charter/grenadines-vs-bvi.
Frequently asked questions
- Which is easier to sail?
- The BVI — short line-of-sight legs and mooring balls almost everywhere. The Grenadines has longer passages and real trade-wind sailing.
- Which is cheaper?
- Crewed catamarans are typically 10–20% cheaper in the Grenadines. Bareboats are broadly similar. Factor in connecting flights via Barbados for St Vincent.
- Which is better for families?
- First charter with kids — BVI. Second charter, or families with older kids and a keen sailor — the Grenadines wins on beaches and wildlife.