Trellis Bay on the eastern tip of Tortola provides a sailing charter with an unusually efficient start. The bay sits immediately to the west of Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport, and guests boarding a sailing yacht here can be under sail within the hour of landing, heading east toward the Virgin Gorda Sound or bearing away south toward Norman Island before the afternoon trade winds peak. The 19 sailing yachts available in the Virgin Islands fleet cover a broad range: from performance monohulls whose guests want to push the boat against the trade winds to comfortable blue-water cruisers whose captains prefer to arrive at anchor with time to spare for a swim and a sundowner. Trellis Bay protected aspect in the lee of Beef Island means boats board and depart in calm conditions even when the trade winds are blowing firmly outside. Weekly charter rates for sailing yachts based in Trellis Bay start from around 35,000 euros for a well-found 15-metre sloop and rise to 150,000 euros for a large crewed performance ketch. The Advance Provisioning Allowance, at approximately 30 percent of the base charter fee, covers provisions, fuel for the motor and generator, marina fees and drinks. Peak season runs from December through April, with January through March offering the most consistent northeast trade wind conditions for a serious sailing itinerary through the BVI.
