Hi Reader,

This week, we’re continuing our BVI Pirate Havens series with tales of Dead Chest Island and the storied pirate history of Jost Van Dyke. But before we dive into those legends, I wanted to share some thoughts about whether the Exumas might be the a good fit for your next charter.

I’m en route this week to the Bahamas Charter Yacht Show to check out some yachts and meet the crews, and we’ve been seeing a rise in requests for this beautiful Bahamian destination. It’s one of my favorite spots to charter, and I’m already planning my return trip this June. Here are a few considerations to help you decide if the Exumas should be on your radar:

• Logistics: The Bahamas is more accessible, with plenty of short, direct flights to Nassau, where most charters begin.
• Pricing: Be prepared for a pricier destination. With fewer charter boats (and less competition), plus a 14% foreign charter tax and VAT, costs can add up faster.
• More remote: Unlike the BVI, where you can reach your first anchorage within an hour, the Exumas require a 30-mile (though stunning) sail from Nassau. If your group loves cruising in 15-20 feet of crystal-clear turquoise water, this will be a highlight. But for those who prefer more relaxation, it’s worth considering. Also, strong tradewinds from the east can make this first stretch a bit bumpy for less seasoned charterers.
  • It's possible to arrange for a pick-up and drop-off in the heart of Exumas at Staniel Cay, skipping the crossings all together.
• Natural beauty and seclusion: The Exumas are perfect for unwinding in solitude. Even in peak season, the anchorage options feel remote and untouched. While there are fewer beach bars and restaurants compared to the BVI, that’s part of the charm for many.

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the yachts I’m excited to visit this week:

• ​Hülya: Perfect for watersports and diving enthusiasts who want to explore the hidden gems of the Exumas with an expert guide.
• ​Kittiwake: A great option for Bali fans looking to sail the Exumas at an attractive price point.
• ​Southern Sky: An all-inclusive power cat experience for six guests, all under $20,000.

Now, let’s hoist the sails and venture back in time to the pirate-infused waters of the BVI.

Dead Chest Island: Blackbeard’s Darkest Tale

A Grim Legend

The barren, rocky outcrop of Dead Chest Island, just off the coast of Peter Island, hides a sinister legend. According to lore, the infamous pirate Blackbeard marooned 15 mutinous crew members on this desolate island with nothing but a bottle of rum each. Stranded with no fresh water or food, their grim fate supposedly inspired the chilling pirate shanty:

"Fifteen men on a dead man’s chest—
Yo-ho-ho, and a bottle of rum!"

Fact or Fiction?

While Blackbeard’s name looms large over Dead Chest Island, historians debate whether he ever set foot in the British Virgin Islands. Nevertheless, the island’s stark beauty and eerie reputation have made it a focal point for tales of betrayal and survival.

Exploring Dead Chest Today

For modern adventurers, Dead Chest Island offers:

• Diving at Dead Chest West: Dive into crystal-clear waters alive with marine life, from vibrant coral reefs to curious schools of fish.
• Painted Walls: Discover a surreal underwater landscape bursting with colors, a stark contrast to the island’s somber legend.
• Imagination Unleashed: Anchor nearby at Deadman's Bay and let your mind wander to the days of pirates and privateers.

Jost Van Dyke: The Dutch Pirate’s Legacy

A Name Written in the Waves

​Jost Van Dyke isn’t just an idyllic Caribbean escape; it’s named for Joost van Dyk, a 17th-century Dutch privateer whose daring exploits laid the groundwork for early settlements in the British Virgin Islands. Sailing under the guise of a merchant, van Dyk cultivated tobacco and cotton, trading with Spanish settlers in Puerto Rico. But behind the scenes, he played a pivotal role in piracy, using the region’s hidden coves to outmaneuver the authorities.

Pirate Strongholds

Van Dyk's name is etched into the rugged coastline of Jost Van Dyke, but his influence stretched far beyond. He fortified areas like Fort Recovery on Tortola to fend off attacks and used the BVI’s labyrinth of islands as a haven for privateers. When Spanish forces struck back, Van Dyk retreated to the island that now bears his name, cementing its place in pirate lore.

Modern-Day Pirate Spirit

Today, Jost Van Dyke retains the spirit of its adventurous past:

• Raise a toast at B-Line, where travelers gather in a rustic environment to share stories much like the privateers of old.
• Anchor in Great Harbour, the same waters that once sheltered ships laden with illicit treasures.
• Explore White Bay, a turquoise haven that whispers of the island’s seafaring history.

While the cannon fire has faded, Jost Van Dyke’s vibrant culture and storied past add to its allure for charter guests.

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That's it for today! Looking forward to sharing my experience at the Bahamas Charter Yacht Show in the coming weeks.

Have a great week! - Matt Weidert