Navigating the British Virgin Islands under Captain Glenn's Command
In a recent development, Captain Glenn Shephard, a renowned sailing expert and brand ambassador for The Moorings, embarked on his first charter trip in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) [1][5]. The BVI, famed for its idyllic anchorages and sailor-friendly environment, provided an unforgettable sailing holiday for Captain Shephard.
During his charter, Captain Shephard sailed aboard a Moorings 4200 sailing catamaran, a vessel that performed admirably, reaching speeds of 8-9 knots and proving capable both upwind and downwind [2]. The boat was in perfect condition and well-stocked, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable sailing experience [3].
The staff at The Moorings base were friendly and welcoming, making the handover process smooth and efficient [4]. Captain Shephard was particularly impressed with the thorough walkthrough, which instilled confidence in him.
As a seasoned sailor with extensive experience in the BVI, Captain Shephard has visited the islands multiple times, including while working on Superyachts, on catamarans, and on a small sailboat [6]. His recognition in the BVI is akin to a Rock Star experience, with sailors frequently recognising him [7].
While the specific top anchorages recommended by Captain Shephard are not detailed in the search results, his role and experience imply his insights would focus on popular, scenic, and sailor-friendly stops within the BVI. Some of the iconic locations in the BVI that seasoned captains might recommend include:
- The Baths on Virgin Gorda, famous for its massive granite boulders, clear waters, and unique swimming spots. - Jost Van Dyke, known for its lively beach bars like Foxy’s and White Bay anchorage. - Norman Island, often said to have inspired the "Treasure Island" novel, great for snorkeling and calm waters. - Peter Island, offering private beaches and quiet secluded bays. - Cooper Island, a small, eco-friendly island with excellent snorkeling spots and calm anchorages. - Tortola, the main island with good marinas and nearby anchoring spots such as Cane Garden Bay.
For precise, direct recommendations from Captain Glenn Shephard, it would be advisable to follow his social media updates or The Moorings' official blogs or channels, where his expert sailing insights about favourite anchorages and experiences in the BVI might be shared in more detail [1][5].
Captain Shephard highly recommends bringing sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, a long sleeve rash guard, an action camera, being flexible with planning, trying a catamaran, and being careful with Painkillers [8]. He also emphasises the importance of prompt support, as demonstrated by The Moorings' quick response to a minor issue with a shower drain during his charter [9].
In conclusion, Captain Glenn Shephard's first charter in the British Virgin Islands was a resounding success. His recognition in the BVI, coupled with his extensive experience, makes him an excellent source of information for sailors planning their next tropical sailing holiday. Captain Shephard would choose The Moorings for future charters without hesitation, even outside of his role with the company [10]. He enjoys interacting with fans of the show, especially fellow sailors who share a love for the sea [11].
- The sailing destinations within the British Virgin Islands, such as Cooper Island, Norman Island, and Tortola, are perfect for outdoor-living enthusiasts and travelers seeking adventure-travel.
- For those planning a budget-travel sailing trip, Captain Shephard suggests being flexible with plans and trying a catamaran, like the Moorings 4200, which offers comfort and efficiency.
- As a seasoned traveler, Captain Shephard also emphasizes the importance of packing essentials like sunscreen, a wide-brim hat, and an action camera for capturing memorable moments during the sailing holiday.
- After an unforgettable sailing holiday in the BVI, Captain Shephard highly recommends selecting the home-and-garden of a catamaran, like the Moorings fleet, for future sailing trips, as it provides a lifestyle of relaxation and enjoyment both on and off the boat.
