We recently returned from an incredible week-long sailing adventure through the British Virgin Islands aboard Manna, captained by the exceptional duo, Matt and Kari. From start to finish, the trip exceeded all expectations and delivered a perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and five-star service. Weather & Conditions: Sailing in mid-April turned out to be an ideal choice. Daytime temperatures hovered in the low 80s, and evenings dipped into the high 60s—perfect for sleeping with the sea breeze and no need for air conditioning. Winds were mild, which made for gentle, light sailing that added to the relaxing pace of the trip. Each night, we were moored in well-protected coves, ensuring calm waters and peaceful sleep. Life Aboard Manna: Manna was spacious and well-equipped, comfortably accommodating our group of four (two couples) with a third stateroom left unoccupied, giving us extra space to spread out. The boat was impeccably maintained and well-stocked with our favorite beverages—beer, wine, and bubbles, always ready for sundown toasts. Meals on board were consistently delicious, with a variety of flavors and styles that kept every lunch and most dinners exciting and satisfying. We did go ashore for three dinners, and the standout was undoubtedly the lobster dinner at The Wonky Dog on Anegada. The lobster was plentiful, cooked to perfection, and complemented by a lively and welcoming atmosphere. Island Adventures: Our itinerary was a wonderful mix of iconic BVI spots and hidden gems. Highlights included beach bar-hopping at Willy T’s on Norman Island, sipping painkillers at the Soggy Dollar on Jost Van Dyke, and catching the laid-back vibes at Tipsy’s on Anegada. In between, we snorkeled and scuba dived in crystal-clear waters, discovering vibrant reefs and marine life. One of our favorite simple pleasures was lounging on the bow while sailing from island to island—pure bliss. There’s something magical about gliding across the water with the wind in your hair and nothing but turquoise horizons ahead. Freedom & Flexibility: Perhaps the most cherished aspect of the charter was the freedom it allowed us. Each day was uniquely tailored to our interests—whether that meant exploring a new island, diving a reef, or just relaxing on deck. Captain Matt and Kari were always ready with great suggestions, but also happy to go with the flow. We especially appreciated the rich local history they shared, adding depth to every stop. Captain & Crew: Captain Matt and First Mate Kari were not only incredibly experienced and safety-conscious, but also warm, personable, and full of fascinating stories from their years of chartering. Their professionalism was apparent from the start; they were in frequent contact before the trip to make sure every detail was covered. They even arranged for our disembarkation to be at a pier just steps from the airport, which made our departure seamless. Final Thought: My personal favorite part? Kicking off my shoes at the start of the trip and not needing them again until it was time to fly home—aside from two dressier dinners ashore. That’s how relaxed and comfortable life on Manna was. If you're looking for an unforgettable, personalized sailing experience in the BVIs, we can’t recommend Manna, Captain Matt, and Kari highly enough. It was a dream vacation that we’ll be talking about for years to come.
Sailing Vacations with the personal attention you deserve
