Sailing reunion to take place in BVI

Sailors from across the United States will gather in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) from July 28 to August 3 to celebrate 20 years of friendships forged on the blue waters of Nature’s Little Secret – BVI.

Those friendships began at the Black Boaters Summit, which also is at its 20th anniversary.

In latter years, other groups came together and made the BVI their sailing destination of choice.

Local captain Kenroy Hazell eventually suggested a reunion of everyone who had ever made the yearly voyage. His idea took hold.

“This year’s reunion group includes No Drama Vacations, the Downriggers, E-Dock and Friends, Nauti by Nature, Sailfete, the Universal Sailing Club, and other friends and family,” the BVI Tourist Board said in a media release.
It added that, for over a year, representatives of each club formed a planning committee to ensure the reunion would be a truly memorable experience.

“The non-stop fun begins with welcome parties at both Voyage Yacht Charters and the Moorings. There is something for everyone on the fun-filled itinerary to follow – including beach parties on Virgin Gorda and White Bay. Lobster lovers can dine on Anegada’s island specialty and take in its spectacular stretches of beach. No BVI trip would be complete without a stop at Great Harbour and Foxy’s on Jost Van Dyke.”

The tourist board continued: “Dinners are planned at Virgin Gorda’s Bitter End Yacht Club, Leverick Bay and Cane Garden Bay. At Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour and Scrub Island, live entertainment is also part of the evening activities. The grand finale for the week-long festivities will be a farewell buffet at Nanny Cay.”

According to one of the event organizers, part of the beauty of the trip is its fluid itinerary. “On any given morning, we can wake up, chart a new course, and set sail to discover a place we’ve never seen. It’s one of the reasons we keep coming back.”

Director of Tourism, Sharon Flax-Brutus, in response to the upcoming reunion, stated that the BVI Tourist Board extends a warm welcome to the group ahead of the visit this month.

“We appreciate their commitment to the destination over the years, and for choosing to celebrate this significant milestone in grand style. I encourage you to share the secret with all others in the African American Community that the British Virgin Islands is an amazing destination to visit and connect with the diaspora,” she further said.