The smallest of the four main islands of the British Virgin Islands, Jost Van Dyke is found roughly 5 miles northwest of Tortola. The island covers just 4 square miles and is home to just under 300 inhabitants. However, it is thought that government population figure could be too high; some citizens who actually live in St. Thomas may have been included in the last census.
Jost Van Dyke has been a popular destination for those seeking adventure for more than 400 years. A Dutch settler/pirate (the man after whom the island is named) settled and used the island as a base in the 17th century, but it did not become really popular with tourists until recently. The island only got electricity in 1991 and proper roads were introduced a few years later. There are no banks, and many businesses shut down completely in September and October.
Jost van Dyke is home to many fantastic beaches. White Bay, which is protected by a huge reef that extends out from the beach, is the perfect point for snorkeling and scuba-diving. The bay is also fantastic for dolphin and whale watching. From mid-January until the end of March, the humpback whale passes through the waters just off Jost Van Dyke as part of its annual migration patterns.
The most frequented point on the island is Great Harbour, which is one of the busiest ports in the BVI. Great Harbour is lined with many small bars and beach restaurants, of which Foxy’s Tiki Bar is undoubtedly the most famous.
Philicianno Callwood (a.k.a “Foxy”), is known for strumming his guitar and singing humorous songs every afternoon, and ensuring that everyone has a great time if they arrive at his establishment. Foxy’s is also well known for hosting fantastic parties late into the night on Halloween and New Year’s Eve (known on the island as “Old Year’s Night”).
The Soggy Dollar Bar, which is found in White Bay, is another very famous beach bar and the birthplace of the Painkiller. The Painkiller is a rum cocktail that contains a blend of Pusser’s Rum mixed with 4 parts pineapple juice, 1 part cream of coconut and 1 part orange juice, served over the rocks with a generous amount of fresh nutmeg.
One of our most popular yacht charters in the BVI is the Privilege 615 Catamaran JERI. This fantastic crewed catamaran offers accommodation for up to 8 guests in an exquisite Owners Suite and 3 luxurious Guest Cabins.
If you would like some advice and help in planning a trip to the BVI, please have a look at our BVI yacht charter guide or send us an email to [email protected], where one of our Brokers would be delighted to assist you.