Thanks to the calm waters, steady trade winds, and lively marinas, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is not only the sailing capital of the Caribbean but also a rising hotspot for culinary celebrations. In 2025, the BVI’s event calendar is filled with regattas, island culture and standout Caribbean cuisine, drawing seasoned sailors, divers, families and adventure seekers from around the world.
From renowned regattas and high-speed powerboat runs to lobster feasts and coastal beach parties, this year’s highlights include: Foxy’s Wooden Boat Regatta, Leverick Bay Poker Run, Drowned Island Challenge, BVI Wreck Week, BVI Restaurant Week, Firecracker Regatta and the Anegada Lobster Festival.
The much-anticipated Foxy’s Wooden Boat Regatta is returning for its 50th anniversary on Jost Van Dyke. This iconic two-day event is more than just a race – it’s a celebration of sailing and island culture. Whether visitors are experienced sailors or families looking for a unique trip, this regatta welcomes everyone. The weekend is all about exciting races, lively beach parties and delicious barbeques showcasing Caribbean specialities.
The Leverick Bay Poker Run is an iconic boating event in the BVI. Powerboats from across the Caribbean and beyond gather to race from stop to stop, collecting playing cards at each location in the hope of landing the best poker hand to win prizes. Each stop features beach parties, cocktails, local food and live music with the final gathering at Leverick Bay in Virgin Gorda.
New this summer is the Drowned Island Challenge. This is a multi-sport weekend on the island of Anegada with two days of running, swimming and paddleboarding races, followed by a beach party. Competitor entry fees come with exclusive perks, including special discounts at the Anegada Beach Club and Horizon Yacht Charters, dinner at The Lobster Trap and more!
Divers and adventure enthusiasts from around the globe are gearing up for BVI Wreck Week, a week-long extravaganza promising an unparalleled exploration of some of the most captivating wrecks in the Caribbean. Catering to all levels of experience, from seasoned wreck divers to curious beginners, participants will have the opportunity to explore meticulously preserved wrecks and art-reefs that dot the seafloor, as well as enjoy beach parties, live music, culinary delights and educational seminars on marine conservation and preservation.
BVI Restaurant Week takes places in Tortola and offers locals and visitors the chance to enjoy exclusive menus and attractive discounts at participating restaurants. Expect bold island flavours, fresh local ingredients and creative dishes that present the best of BVI cuisine.
Competitive sailors return year after year to take part in the Annual Firecracker 500, an event which sees participants race a traditional figure eight course around the Thatches and out to Sandy Cay. The finish takes the boats down to the bottom of Great Thatch, where they then have to race against the wind back up to Soper’s Hole. Competitors and their supporters are invited to an after-party and chili cook-off at Omar’s Fusion.
The Anegada Lobster Festival is a three-day event on the island of Anegada, known for its fresh lobster. Visitors arrive by ferry or sailboat and can rent a Mini Moke to visit 13 beachfront restaurants offering lobster prepared in various ways – grilled, curried, in tacos, or bisque. All lobster is freshly caught nearby, making it the perfect festival for seafood enthusiasts!
For more information on events in the British Virgin Islands: www.bvitourism.com
