British Virgin Islands - History Of A Preferred Travel Destination

B.V.I. - History Of Settlement

A volcanic archipelago, the The British Virgin Islands is a collection of 60 islands in the Caribbean Sea. Before the voyages of Christopher Columbus, when he named the islands, and before Spain claimed the islands as their own, and the subsequent settlements by English, Dutch, French, Spanish, and Danish people, the Virgin Islands were inhabited by indigenous peoples. Tortola became a permanent Dutch settlement as the cluster of islands became a famous outpost for pirates. Skirmishes between the European countries seeking New World dominance changed the balance of power frequently in the 17th century. Eventually, the English seized Tortola and annexed nearby Virgin Gorda and Anegada. 

Before realizing the economic powerhouse in their possession, the English were interested in the Virgin Islands’ strategic location. Soon sugar cane became the cornerstone of the economy, and the industry boomed as the enslaved peoples of West Africa were put to work on the cane plantations. However, the economy declined when the mid-nineteenth century brought abolition, devastating storms, and decreased demand for cane sugar. Currently, the economy centers around financial services and tourism.

Tortola

The capital of BVI, Tortola, is the most populous of the islands.

Old Government House Museum: Waterfront Drive, Road Town, Tortola, 284-494–4091

Possibly one of the best on the islands, this museum celebrates BVI’s evolution from a Caribbean outpost and pirate enclave to a modern territory of the United Kingdom. Over the last two centuries, the destructive effects of several hurricanes created upheaval and necessitated multiple rebuildings of the Governor’s House. Currently, there is a continuing effort to rebuild after the devastation of Hurricane Irma in 2016. The museum features period furnishings and fixtures, breathtaking murals depicting scenes of the islands’ plantation era, and memorabilia from two visits by the Queen of England. 

Virgin Gorda

The third-largest island, Virgin Gorda, is a place of unspoiled beaches, protected anchorages, and unrivaled natural beauty.

Devil's Bay (The Baths) National Park Named Virgin Gorda’s #1 attraction, Devil’s Bay, and the Baths are a quick trip from Spanish Town, the island’s “downtown.” With its unique geological formations, the Baths is a favorite for snorkeling, swimming, and stunning granite formations, including arches and caverns. Nearby Devil’s Bay is accessible via steps with rope handrails and a series of ladders that lead up the face of the 40-foot boulders. Onshore amenities include restrooms and lockers.

Jost Van Dyke

The smallest of the islands, Jost Van Dyke’s Great Harbour is the place to be if you’re a party animal. Foxy’s Taboo is a popular stop for locals and tourists alike. 

The Bubbly Pool: On the east end of the island, the Bubbly Pool is also called Mother Nature’s Jacuzzi. Bring sturdy shoes, your passport, and a drink. As you hike, you may spot some wild goats! One caveat: Mother Nature is mighty, and visitors must be mindful of their personal safety when the tide is high. 

Anegada: This coral island is unique as the other islands are volcanic in origin. Sixteen square miles and flat as can be, Anegada is home to flamingoes, sea turtles, native rock iguanas; nurse sharks are abundant in springtime. 

On one of our term sailing charters of the BVI, SCUBA, snorkeling, and white beach expanses are waiting for you. Explore the underwater shipwrecks within the coral reefs. The shallow water allows you to walk out nearly a hundred feet with a clear view of the ocean floor. Local cuisine like flying fish and lobster and the famous painkiller cocktail await you after the day’s excursions. 

Whichever island you visit aboard a Max Charters sailing vessel, you are invited to relax, recharge, and enjoy yourself!

U.S. Virgin Islands - History Of A Desired Holiday Vacation Destination

Indigenous peoples were the first occupants of this Caribbean archipelago. When Christopher Columbus made landfall in 1493, he believed he had found the sea route to India, so he called the inhabitants “Indians.”  Columbus named the beautiful islands for the legend of Saint Ursula and her martyred virgins.

Sometime between 1587 and 1625, the indigenous people disappeared.  Most historians believe that the Spanish settlers in nearby Puerto Rico abducted the Indians for slave labor. Their raids caused some to flee, but many were captured and put to work on Spanish-controlled islands. European diseases ravaged the population of Indians, and those who remained died from their hard work and brutal treatment.

Holland, England, Spain, Denmark, and France were vying for the islands’ control and colonization. The religious Order of the Knights of Malta also attempted to stake a claim. The Danish West India Company’s settlement sprang up on the island of St. Thomas in 1665, followed by another colony on St. John. The Danish West Indies when, in 1733, the Danes purchased St. Croix from the French. 

 A fourth island in the harbor at Charlotte Amalie, Water Island, has a long history of changing owners and myriad uses.  Initially, pirate ships would anchor there to go ashore to stock up on fresh water. The DWIC grazed animals there to feed their workers. There were two plantations growing cotton and livestock, both owned by men of color. The Danish East Asiatic Company sold to the US military, who built a fort during WW2. It became the fourth island in 1996.

The Danes brought an agricultural economy to the islands, starting with St. John. Sugar cane, indigo, and cotton were grown on plantations, leading to a need for bodies to work in the fields. The enslavement of Africans became the solution for maintaining a place in global trade. In 1685 the Brandenburg American Company established a slave-trading post on St. Thomas; around the same time, officials on the islands welcomed pirates who would spend their money in the local shops. By the early 18th century, few pirates remained; however, the slave trade continued to be brisk. Slave rebellions occurred on the agricultural islands of St. John and St. Croix, while St. Thomas became a hub of commerce and mercantilism. Freed slaves on St. Thomas had more significant opportunities to build their lives and enjoy freedom. 1848 saw the emancipation of the slaves by a liberal governor who had been pushing the issue for many years. Although plantation owners protested, and despite the Danish Monarch’s decree to preserve slavery, 17,000 slaves gained their freedom, joining 5,000 already-freed men and women.

After emancipation, there continued to be economic unrest. The plantation owners eventually packed up and left. Natural disasters and a floundering economy furthered the decline of wealth and trade, and by the late 19th century, hard times had arrived.

With World War One on the horizon, the US government bought the US Virgin Islands from the Danes to secure a strategic base. The US Navy and the US Department of the interior were responsible for the governance of the islands. In the 1930s, the USVI became a US territory, with a governor and US citizens. USVI citizens elect a delegate to Congress; however, they are not allowed to vote; neither are USVI citizens permitted to vote in elections.

The National Park Service has jurisdiction over a large percentage of the USVI landmass, starting with a gift of 5,000 acres on St. John, courtesy of the Rockefellers.

Since the mid-20th century, the USVI has been a desirable holiday destination. Booking a customizable term sailing charter with Max Charters is the best way to see all the fascinating, historical points of interest that the U.S. Virgin Islands have to offer.

Seven Day Virgin Islands Term Charters Offer Guests Personalized Sailing Holidays

With a world of choices available, planning a vacation can be exciting and daunting at the same time. A Caribbean experience tailored to the desires of each guest is an exceptional opportunity for a memorable adventure. Sailing on a private vessel through the bays and around the cays, to beaches and harbors is a unique experience for each traveler seeking new destinations. Our experienced crew knows the right places to go and the best times for your maximum enjoyment. Imagine snorkeling in crystalline waters with no one in sight except for you and your companions. Check out Max Charters’ sample itinerary to see our wide range of offerings.

Red Hook, St. Thomas, is Max Charters’ home port. Some of our guests choose to arrive a day or two ahead of their scheduled sea voyage so they can enjoy this beautiful, mountainous island.  

Our eminently qualified crew, led by the intrepid Captain Hunter, offers unmatched knowledge of the Virgin Islands waters and islands. The Max Charters crew is like family, having earned their sea legs together as young people. The seafaring squad is rounded out by longtime compatriots Jessi and Jamie. Hunter is a United States Coast Guard-licensed Master Captain and a certified Wilderness First Responder. David fell in love with the Virgin Islands and moved his family here by way of Germany. He has been passionate about sailing since he learned as a Boy Scout. Learn more about our crew. 

Finn is the salty four-legged Max-cot who assists the crew when he isn’t busy snoozing. He’s a good boy.

The 44-foot Hanse 445, a boat that comfortably accommodates up to 4 guests, has three cabins and two heads. Our second boat, a yacht, is a Dufour 512 Grand Large. Measuring just over 48’, this cruiser is spacious and comfortable, with five cabins and three heads. Our well-maintained vessels meet all regulatory requirements. See more about both of these amazing yachts here.

CONTACT DETAILS:

6501 Red Hook Rd Suite 201-440, Red Hook, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands; (860) 215-4050. Appointments at max-charters.com

St. Thomas - More Points of Interest and Things To Do

Historic 99 Steps:

Formerly called Store Taarne Gade, or Greater Tower Street, there are actually 103 steps. Constructed from the ballast bricks of 18th-century Danish ships, this 99 step street, or frigangs as the Danish colonists called them, is one of many in Charlotte Amalie. Permanent stairs made for easier passage within this mountainous town. The top offers spectacular views of Charlotte Amalie Harbor; museums, shops, tour outfits, and refreshments line the step street all the way down to the bottom.

Fort Christian:

Skirmishes between colonial powers, together with shifting commercial interests and pirates, necessitated military fortifications. The first governor acquired a slave, Simon Lamar, a mason, to build the fort named in honor of Christian V of Denmark. Lamar oversaw the construction in the 1670s, after which he lived out his life with his family as a freed Afro Caribbean. Located along the bay and ideally located for delivering cannon fire to enemy incursions, Fort Christian is the oldest standing building in the US Virgin Islands.

Blackbeard’s Castle:

Towering above Fort Christian, it is impossible to miss this imposing tower, Skytsborg. Erected in 1679 by colonial Danes, it gave St. Thomas’s defenders the tactical advantage of an unobstructed view of the horizon. According to local legend, the infamous pirate Edward Teach spent some of his buccaneer career hiding out at his namesake tower, which eventually became known as Blackbeard’s Castle. Until 2017 there was a hotel on this five-acre property. Hurricane Irma thundered ashore and destroyed much of the island, including the hotel. While there is no current plan for rebuilding the hotel, the tower still stands strong as it has for nearly 350 years. Don’t miss a photo op with Blackbeard!

Skyline Drive:

With nearly all its square footage covered in rugged mountains, St. Thomas boasts stunning views of its neighboring islands from its numerous lookout points. Also called Valdemar A. Hill, Sr. Drive, this motor route is named after a local author. Take in the expansive views from Skyline Drive as part of a tour or in your rental car.

There is a Waymark along the route, at the scenic overlook. Enjoy the panoramic and breathtaking seascapes and of Charlotte Amalie, the capital city. 

Sir Francis Drake's Seat:

The Seat is located amongst the many overlooks. According to local legend, this is where 16th-century explorer Sir Francis Drake kept watch for ships, friends, and foes. There is a spectacular view of the place where the Atlantic Ocean and the Caribbean Sea meet and mix from Sir Francis Drake's Seat. 

Water Island:

This tranquil island, the fourth-largest of the Virgin Islands, is a short ferry ride from Charlotte Amalie. Located in the city harbor and formerly an army base it is now home to a residential enclave, green hills, and pristine beaches. Bike rides on this lightly hilly island are pleasant, and the wildlife is bountiful. During your exploration, you may spot native iguanas, turtles, and tropical birds. Day trips to Water Island are an excellent way for cruise ship passengers to spend some time exploring the rich beauty and and peaceful atmosphere. Check the ferry schedule before starting your excursion.

The East End:

The East End features Red Hook, a less densely populated area than Charlotte Amalie and perhaps a bit more restrained. This area boasts high-end resorts with a private beachfront, shopping, art, and entertainment. Beautiful beaches like Sapphire, Lindquist, and Pineapple are waiting for you! Cruise ships are berthed at Red Hook and the inter-island ferry provides service to St. John. If you prefer a charter or a water taxi, those are available, too.

For excitement or rest, St. Thomas delivers. The Island of St Thomas awaits you!

British Virgin Islands - History and Interesting Attractions To Visit

A volcanic archipelago, the British Virgin Islands, (BVI) is a collection of 60 islands in the Caribbean Sea. Before the voyages of Christopher Columbus, when he named the islands, and before Spain claimed the islands as their own, and the subsequent settlements by English, Dutch, French, Spanish, and Danish people, the Virgin Islands were inhabited by indigenous peoples. Tortola became a permanent Dutch settlement as the cluster of islands became a famous outpost for pirates. Skirmishes between the European countries seeking New World dominance changed the balance of power frequently in the 17th century. Eventually, the English seized Tortola and annexed nearby Virgin Gorda and Anegada. 

Before realizing the economic powerhouse in their possession, the English were interested in the Virgin Islands’ strategic location. Soon sugar cane became the cornerstone of the economy, and the industry boomed as the enslaved peoples of West Africa were put to work on the cane plantations. However, the economy declined when the mid-nineteenth century brought abolition, devastating storms, and decreased demand for cane sugar. Currently, the economy centers around financial services and tourism.

Road Town - Tortola
The capital of BVI is Road Town, located onTortola, which is the most populous of the islands.

Old Government House Museum: Waterfront Drive, Road Town, Tortola, 284-494–4091
Possibly one of the best on the islands, this museum celebrates BVI’s evolution from a Caribbean outpost and pirate enclave to a modern territory of the United Kingdom. Over the last two centuries, the destructive effects of several hurricanes created upheaval and necessitated multiple rebuildings of the Governor’s House. Currently, there is a continuing effort to rebuild after the devastation of Hurricane Irma in 2016. The museum features period furnishings and fixtures, breathtaking murals depicting scenes of the islands’ plantation era, and memorabilia from two visits by the Queen of England. For an acquatic adventure, visit Rhone Marine National Park which is the island’s most popular SCUBA dive spot. The wreck of the RMS Rhone has become a reef habit hosting many species of fish and other fascinating sea creatures you won’t want to miss.

Virgin Gorda
The third-largest island, Virgin Gorda, is a place of unspoiled beaches, protected anchorages, and unrivaled natural beauty.

Devil's Bay (The Baths) National Park
Named Virgin Gorda’s #1 attraction, Devil’s Bay, and the Baths are a quick trip from Spanish Town, the island’s “downtown.” With its unique geological formations, the Baths is a favorite for snorkeling, swimming, and stunning granite formations, including arches and caverns. Nearby Devil’s Bay is accessible via steps with rope handrails and a series of ladders that lead up the face of the 40-foot boulders. Onshore amenities include restrooms and lockers.

Jost Van Dyke
The smallest of the islands, Jost Van Dyke’s Great Harbour is the place to be if you’re a party animal. Foxy’s Taboo is a popular stop for locals and tourists alike. 

The Bubbly Pool
On the east end of the island, the Bubbly Pool is also called Mother Nature’s Jacuzzi. Bring sturdy shoes, your passport, and a drink. As you hike, you may spot some wild goats! One caveat: Mother Nature is mighty, and visitors must be mindful of their personal safety when the tide is high. 

Anegada
This coral island is unique as the other islands are volcanic in origin. Sixteen square miles and flat as can be, Anegada is home to flamingoes, sea turtles, native rock iguanas; nurse sharks are abundant in springtime. 

SCUBA, snorkeling, and white beach expanses are waiting for you. Explore the underwater shipwrecks within the coral reefs. Equipment rental is easy to find: kite- and windsurfing, fishing gear, paddleboards, and diving equipment. The shallow water allows you to walk out nearly a hundred feet with a clear view of the ocean floor. Local cuisine like flying fish and lobster and the famous painkiller cocktail await you after the day’s excursions. 

Whichever island you visit, you are invited to relax, recharge, and enjoy yourself. Book a charter with us and we will coordinate a customized sailing tour experience through the BVI Island chain!

Things To Do - Points Of Interest On The US Virgin Islands

Before, during or after your experience of a lifetime on a Max Charters sailing cruise, you may want to do some landlubbing and check out various points if interest and things to do on the US Virgin Islands of St, Thomas, St John or St Croix.

About the U.S.V.I.

This Caribbean archipelago was home to indigenous people from 1000 BCE with the first Europeans visiting in 1493 and settling around 1555. The USVI consists of three main islands: St. John, St. Thomas, and St. Croix; 50 minor islands and cays are either privately owned or largely uninhabited. went on to be colonized and variously controlled and/or disputed by France, Spain, Netherlands, Denmark, and Britain. Heavily involved in agriculture and commerce, coffee, tobacco, sugar, and cotton were the pillars of trade. A lack of workers led to the rise of the enslavement of Africans to work on the plantations; slavery was nominally abolished in 1848 but unrest continued for several more decades due to issues of labor, workers’ rights, and inequities in the system. There were several slave rebellions, including at least one led by women. 

Concerned with wartime strategy and access to the Panama Canal, the US purchased the Danish West Indies in 1917, with American citizenship conferred in 1927 upon all residents of the island territory.

Things to do

Hiking trails are abundant, no matter which island you find yourself on. Some trails are inland, others terminate at breathtaking oceanview vistas where you can swim, picnic, cliff-dive, or just relax before heading back. For visitors unable to hike, motorized options may be available, as well as water tours and bicycle tours. Check out your options.

World-class beach-bumming is the order of the day for worshipers of sun and sand. Please use only reef-friendly sunscreen when you go to any of the amazing beaches or when snorkeling among reefs featuring 40 types of coral.

St. John

St. John features the Leinster Bay Trail, an easy mile-long hike to Waterlemon Bay, and possibly the best snorkeling on the island.

The Friends of Virgin Islands National Park offers a full listing of hiking trails.

St. Thomas

This island is considered the most cosmopolitan of the three main islands. Find the 99 Steps (spoiler, there are more than 99!) and climb them to Blackbeard’s castle. Blackbeard’s Castle, AKA Skytsborg, in Charlotte Amalie was built as a watchtower for the protection of the harbor and nearby Fort Christian and is a National Historic Landmark. 

The Three Queens Fountain at Blackbeard's Castle on St. Thomas was created to honor the women who organized the St. Croix labor riot, or the Fireburn Rebellion of 1878: Queens Mary, Agnes, and Mathilda.  

Coral World is considered one of St. Thomas’s best attractions. A tower-style aquarium, touch tanks, sting-ray pools, and sea lions are only a few of the wonders awaiting you.

St. Croix

On the north shore of St. Croix you can hike under the jungle canopy to Annaly Bay. With its tide pools, breathtaking tropical atmosphere, and unparalleled snorkeling, the journey is worth the destination. The hike is strenuous but there are jeep tours that get you over the bumpy roads. Heads up: check the tide charts, bring water shoes, and make sure you have water and snacks.

Also on St. Croix is the St George Village Botanical Garden offers 1,000 varieties of plants grown over and among the 16 acres of ruins of an 18th-and 19th-century sugar plantation listed in the National Registry, as well as another site: the archaeological site of a former Amerindian settlement.

Point Udall on St. Croix is less than 4 miles round trip and features a secluded beach and turtle sanctuary.

If mini golf is your thing, bring the family to Christiansted for 18 holes of fun! 

Eating and shopping can fill in the rest of the day: Try the meat pate and a local Cruzan cocktail. Cheers!

Book your private sailing yacht charter tour of the USVI with Max Charters now.