FAQ: All About the Spanish Virgin Islands
The British and US Virgin Islands are popular vacation destinations, but the Spanish Virgin Islands are a hidden gem of the Caribbean. The SVI, consisting of Vieques, Culebra, and several small islets and cays, is much less known compared to its sister islands. Yet for sailors who dream of exploring uninhabited landscapes and anchoring off empty beaches, they should be at the top of your bucket list!
What makes the Spanish Virgin Islands different from the US and British Virgin Islands?
From the outbreak of World War II until 2003, Vieques was a bomb practice area for the US Navy, so its tourism infrastructure has only been developing for the last two decades. As a result, the SVI have far smaller populations and more intact wilderness. The island of Vieques is 52 square miles, compared to St. Thomas’s 32 square miles, yet Vieques has one-fifth the population. Visitors to the SVI often say that it feels like the Caribbean did 30 years ago.
Are the Spanish Virgin Islands worth visiting?
Absolutely! If you want to get away from crowds and explore a part of the Caribbean with a relaxed atmosphere, the Spanish Virgin Islands are a paradise. They offer views that are just as stunning as the British and US Virgin Islands, but they have far smaller populations and development, which results in even more secluded, pristine beaches, beautiful hiking trails, and thriving wildlife refuges.
What are the best things to do in the Spanish Virgin Islands?
Of course, relaxing and snorkeling on the quiet beaches of the SVI is a must. Accessing the beaches of the smaller islets and cays by boat will provide the most privacy.
If you decide to visit Culebrita, check out the Spanish-built historic lighthouse. The lighthouse is at the cay’s highest point, providing top panoramic views, and because Culebrita is uninhabited, the walk there is stunning as well.
For a magical nighttime experience, visit the world-famous Mosquito Bay on Vieques to swim in the best bioluminescent beach in the world. Because Mosquito Bay is protected, you cannot go on your own and must go with a licensed tour.
How can I get to the Spanish Virgin Islands?
The SVI are situated between Puerto Rico and the USVI, so it is easiest to arrive from these destinations. Visitors to the SVI usually come for day trips or stay on live-aboard sailboats because accommodation on the islands is limited. You can bareboat charter a luxurious sailboat with Go Sail Virgin Islands to explore the best-kept secret in the Caribbean before the SVI becomes a busy tourist destination. Conditions permitting, Go Sail Virgin Islands also occasionally sails to the Spanish Virgin Islands with students taking advanced ASA courses!
Do I need a passport to go to the Spanish Virgin Islands?
The islands are a territory of the United States, so US citizens do not need a passport.
Are there restrictions for anchoring near the Spanish Virgin Islands?
Certain areas, particularly within marine reserves and near Mosquito Bay, may have restrictions for anchoring to protect coral reefs and delicate bioluminescent ecosystems.
For more information about options to sail the Virgin Islands, contact Go Sail Virgin Islands.