Celebrate Christmas and New Year in the BVI

Here Are Boatbookings' Tips for Planning Your Next Holiday Charter in the BVI

Christmas Charter Dates: December 19th/20th to December 26th/27th

New Year's Charter Dates: December 28th/29th to January 4th/5th

During Christmas and New Year, the British Virgin Islands are a Caribbean paradise waiting to welcome you from the sharp winter winds of the north to the warm, sun-soaked beaches of Tortola, Virgin Gorda, or Jost Van Dyke. With a special kind of holiday magic, this corner of the world leaves charterers with the most exclusive anchorages, elevated dining experiences, and vibrant reefs. The salt air is tinged with hints of seasonal spices that give just the right amount of holiday hominess, while the warm Caribbean weather provides the perfect conditions for a swim in the serene waters. Whether you are gathering with family for your annual reunion or toasting the beginning of the new year with friends, a yacht charter in the BVI offers the most exclusive way to celebrate.

As the pinnacle of the Caribbean charter season, availability is limited, and boats are booked quickly. Securing your Christmas or New Year's charter early ensures you will have the exact holiday experience you desire. With this in mind, the Boatbookings team has compiled a list of helpful information to use when planning your next seasonal vacation in the BVI. Contact our experts to start creating a tailor-made itinerary now!  

BVI Yacht Charter Guide 

When to Book

With Christmas and New Year being the most popular time to sail in the BVI, it is important to book your charter early to ensure you have the best experience possible. Our Charter Experts will help you plan each stop, secure all the on-board amenities that you desire, and create the perfect holiday itinerary centered around the best anchorages in the BVI. To guarantee you experience the best holiday the BVI has to offer, we suggest booking your charter at least a year in advance. Our team will then work tirelessly to deliver an unforgettable holiday charter. 

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When to Charter

During the holidays, charters have a 7-night minimum and are only available for select dates. This guarantees the perfect itinerary that includes all the special events you won't want to miss. Please look below for a general schedule for a Christmas or New Year's charter. 

Dates for a Christmas charter - December 19th/20th to December 26th/27th

Dates for a New Year's charter - December 28th/29th to January 4th/5th

BVI Crewed Motor Yachts BVI Crewed Catamarans 

Seasonal Prices

Due to the special events that take place and the extra care that is taken to make this a perfect holiday season, boats will typically run on a premium rate for the two weeks. These are the only seasonally priced weeks of the year in the Caribbean. 

Traditions and Events

All over the world, the holiday season gives reason to celebrate the things and people we love, and the BVI is no different. Each island has its own collection of traditions and festivities to help you celebrate in your favorite way. Below are some of our favorite holiday events happening in the BVI. 

Christmas on Main Street, Tortola: First held in 1999, this three-day, market-style festival boasts traditional holiday cuisine, local steel-pan bands, and an abundance of tents selling all kinds of handcrafted keepsakes. Meander through the streets and chat with local artists who will fill you in on their favorite holiday traditions while the smell of traditional stew lures you to the next tent for a taste of island food. From seasonal spices to generationally owned shops, Christmas on Main Street provides the perfect blend of Christmas spirit and island charm. 

Foxy's Tamarind Bar, Jost Van Dyke: As far as holiday events go in the BVI, there is none quite like Foxy's, where live music, cool island breezes, and fresh seafood come together to create the perfect atmosphere for a Christmas celebration. Foxy's has both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day events where friends gather and eventually leave as family after a day filled with enough Christmas spirit to last the entire year. 

New Year, New Me, New BEYC, Virgin Gorda: Dance into the new year at the Bitter End Yacht Club on Virgin Gorda, where live music and island spirit create the biggest celebration of the year. Grab a partner and toast to the new year and unforgettable memories in the BVI. 

*Dates and events subject to change. Be sure to check out the websites for further details. 

BVI Best Attractions BVI Hidden Gems 

Weather and Sailing Conditions

Christmas Winds: During December and January, a seasonal change in weather patterns occurs. This causes winds to reach about 15-30 knots. It is still perfectly safe and enjoyable to sail during this time, as the sheltered bays and anchorages provide calm conditions for water toys and snorkeling. 

Temperature: Christmas and New Year fall during the BVI's dry season, resulting in little rain and lots of sunshine. Temperature typically stays around 78-84 °F (26-29 °C) during the day, and falls to 74-77 °F (23-25°C) at night. Additionally, water temperatures stay around 80-81 °F (26-27 °C). 

A Little Extra Holiday Magic

Throughout the year, the British Virgin Islands promise a kaleidoscope of sun-drenched beaches and handcrafted luxury for charterers; however, for Christmas and New Year, the islands come alive with just a little extra holiday magic. Season's greetings and Caribbean charm manifest in white Christmas lights strung between palm trees, garland that glows under the soft light of lanterns hung from tree limbs, and lively Christmas feasts paired with famous island cocktails. From Tortola to Anegada, every corner hums with festive energy, making the British Virgin Islands the perfect holiday destination. 

 See Our Selection of the Finest BVI Charter Yachts for Christmas and New Year in 2026-2027 Below!