Tortola has hosted classic yachts since the British Virgin Islands charter industry began in the 1960s, and the island still carries the right atmosphere for a charter aboard a vessel with history and character. The eight classic yachts in the Virgin Islands fleet include traditionally rigged schooners, well-maintained wooden sloops and characterful steel-hulled motor sailers, each maintained to a standard that respects the original design while meeting current safety requirements. Road Town marina on Tortola is the BVI principal clearance port, and classic vessels arriving from Saint Thomas or the US Virgin Islands complete formalities here before setting off to the quieter anchorages to the north and east. Weekly charter rates for classic vessels in the Virgin Islands run from around 50,000 euros to 150,000 euros, with the wider range reflecting variation in size and crew complement. The Advance Provisioning Allowance, at around 30 percent of the base charter fee, covers provisions, marina fees, fuel and drinks. Classic yacht charters in Tortola peak from December through April, when reliable trade winds provide textbook broad reaching conditions through the Drake Channel and the anchorages around Norman Island and Jost Van Dyke are at their most settled. The classic yacht circuit through the BVI is short enough to be covered without rushing, leaving time at anchor for the craft of each vessel to be properly appreciated.
