Our journey to Jost Van Dyke began from Tortola, a short sail across the serene waters of the Caribbean Sea. As we approached the island, the lush green hills and inviting blue waters came into view, creating an idyllic scene. We anchored the Ocean Dreamer in Great Harbour, the main anchorage on the island, and were immediately struck by the island’s tranquil beauty and welcoming atmosphere.

Great Harbour is a hub of activity with numerous yachts and boats anchored, and a variety of beachfront bars and restaurants. This bustling harbor set the tone for our visit, promising a mix of relaxation and vibrant island life.

Our first stop was Foxy's, one of the most famous bars in the Caribbean. Located right on the beach in Great Harbour, Foxy's is known for its lively atmosphere, live music, and delicious cocktails. We spent the evening enjoying the festive ambiance, meeting fellow travelers, and sampling the local rum punch. The bar’s friendly staff and charismatic owner, Foxy Callwood, made us feel right at home.

In addition to Foxy's, Great Harbour is home to several other bars and restaurants, each offering its own unique charm. We explored the local eateries, savoring fresh seafood dishes such as conch fritters and grilled fish, while enjoying the stunning views of the harbor.

A short sail from Great Harbour brought us to White Bay, one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean. The soft, powdery sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters create a picture-perfect setting. White Bay is famous for its beach bars, including the renowned Soggy Dollar Bar, named for the wet dollar bills patrons use to pay after swimming ashore.

We anchored the Ocean Dreamer just off the beach and swam to shore, experiencing the fun and carefree vibe of White Bay. The Soggy Dollar Bar is known for inventing the Painkiller cocktail, a delicious blend of rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, coconut cream, and nutmeg. We couldn’t resist trying this iconic drink while lounging on the beach and soaking up the sun.

The shallow, calm waters of White Bay make it an ideal spot for swimming and snorkeling. We spent hours exploring the underwater world, encountering colorful fish and vibrant coral reefs. The beauty and tranquility of White Bay made it a highlight of our trip.

Continuing our exploration of Jost Van Dyke, we sailed to Little Harbour, a quieter and more secluded spot compared to Great Harbour and White Bay. Little Harbour offers a peaceful retreat with its calm waters and scenic surroundings. We enjoyed a leisurely afternoon here, swimming, kayaking, and simply relaxing on the yacht.

From Little Harbour, we made a short trip to Sandy Cay, a small, uninhabited island just off the coast of Jost Van Dyke. Sandy Cay is a true tropical paradise with its pristine beaches, swaying palm trees, and crystal-clear waters. We took a hike along the nature trail that circles the island, offering stunning views and opportunities to spot local wildlife. The untouched beauty of Sandy Cay was mesmerizing, and we felt like castaways on our own private island.

Jost Van Dyke has a rich cultural heritage, with a history that dates back to the Arawak and Carib peoples, followed by European settlers. The island is named after a Dutch pirate, Joost van Dyk, who used it as a hideout in the 17th century. Today, the island’s culture is a vibrant mix of Caribbean traditions and influences from its colorful past.

We took the opportunity to learn more about the island’s history and culture by visiting the local communities and interacting with the residents. The islanders’ warmth and hospitality were evident, and we were welcomed with open arms. We listened to stories about the island’s history, explored local shops selling handmade crafts, and enjoyed traditional music and dance performances.

As our time on Jost Van Dyke came to an end, I reflected on the incredible experiences and the island’s unique charm. From the lively atmosphere of Great Harbour and the stunning beauty of White Bay to the serene retreat of Little Harbour and the untouched paradise of Sandy Cay, Jost Van Dyke offered a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural enrichment.

Sailing back to Tortola, I felt a deep appreciation for the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Jost Van Dyke. The island had captured my heart with its pristine beaches, clear waters, and welcoming community. The memories of exploring this enchanting island would stay with me forever, and I knew that I would return to Jost Van Dyke for future adventures.

Fair winds and following seas,

Captain Jack Thompson