According to forum posts, travelers looking to explore the British Virgin Islands (BVI) can utilize ferry services to navigate between islands such as Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke. However, direct ferry services from Virgin Gorda to St. John are not available, necessitating a connection through St. Thomas.

Travelers have highlighted that ferry schedules can be accessed through websites like bestofbvi.com, which provides updated ferry timings and routes. This is particularly helpful for planning transfers between the islands efficiently.

Some users noted the importance of considering ferry travel times and the potential need for overnight stays when planning island-hopping itineraries. For instance, if ferry schedules are tight or not aligned with flight arrivals, spending an extra night on an island might be necessary to ensure smooth travel the next day.

The cost of ferry travel can vary, and users suggest having a backup plan and checking for the most current travel requirements and schedules. It's also recommended to reserve ferries in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to avoid inconvenience.

According to forum posts, accessing The Baths via a boat charter involves strict regulations. Boats cannot land ashore directly and must utilize designated mooring points. From these points, passengers either swim or are transported via dinghy to a nearby point, and then swim to the shore. This method requires passengers to be strong swimmers, especially if conditions are rough, as currents and surges can make water entry challenging.

For many users, an alternative to boat access is to reach The Baths via ground transport from Spanish Town. Organized charters typically include a taxi ride from Spanish Town to The Baths. This setup allows visitors to follow a scheduled program with specific times for arrival and departure, which can include stops for meals at local eateries like Top of the Baths and Mad Dogs.

Some travelers have highlighted the best times to visit The Baths for avoiding crowds. Early morning visits are recommended before the arrival of day-trippers and cruise ship passengers. This strategy allows for a more peaceful and less crowded experience at this popular attraction.

According to forum posts, preferences between Tortola and Virgin Gorda vary based on what travelers are looking for during their vacation. Some travelers prefer Tortola for its easier access to other islands via ferries and a wider range of activities.

Many users highlighted Virgin Gorda's less crowded environment and laid-back vibe, comparing it favorably to the old St. John (STJ). Virgin Gorda is often described as having good beaches, less crowded conditions, and a simpler navigation system, making it appealing for those seeking a quieter, more relaxing getaway.

For those interested in activities and ease of access to other locations, posts suggest that Tortola might be more suitable. It provides better connectivity to other islands and offers more options for dining and activities. However, Virgin Gorda is favored for its tranquility, unique attractions like The Baths, and the overall quality of its beaches and snorkeling spots.

Ultimately, the choice between Tortola and Virgin Gorda should be based on the visitors' preferences for either a more activity-filled experience or a peaceful, scenic environment.

Several travelers have recommended popular charter companies for crewed catamaran experiences in the British Virgin Islands. Companies like The Moorings, Sunsail, and TMM Yacht Charters were frequently mentioned for their reliability and quality service. Additionally, Best of BVI was praised for its exceptional customer service, especially when working with Trudi, a broker known for organizing seamless trips.

For those seeking a personalized experience, using a charter broker like Sandy at Cool Cat Charters was suggested, as they can tailor yacht selections based on specific needs without any cost to the charterer. For larger groups, options like Cuan Law, which can accommodate up to 20 people, were also discussed, although it's noted that such options are not budget-friendly.

Users have cautioned against assuming price correlates with quality, sharing experiences of overpriced services that did not meet expectations, particularly with companies like Sunsail. It was also advised to thoroughly research and possibly contact companies directly to ensure boat quality and service standards meet personal expectations.

According to forum posts, Tortola is recommended for easy access to other islands in the BVI via ferries, making it a central point for island hopping.

For those seeking less crowded options with good beaches and snorkeling, Virgin Gorda is frequently mentioned. It's less bustling than Tortola and offers a quieter environment. Additionally, Jost Van Dyke is highlighted for its beautiful views and safety, making it a good choice for relaxing and enjoying the local scenery.

Travelers have called out that both Tortola and Virgin Gorda provide good bases for day trips to nearby islands. Options include ferry services and chartered sailboats, which can enhance the island-hopping experience without the need to change accommodations frequently.