Just got back from the SVI, and I know that I'm gushing, but I can't say enough good things.
Another great thing about the SVI is the lack of the nickel-and-dime fees in the BVI that eventually amount to real money.
First - Mooring balls are free!!! They are also well maintained, by my standard. Consider that in the BVI you are paying $25-$35 a night on a mooring ball for a 9-10 day trip and you're talking $300! That's a lot of lobster and rum! Also, they don't pack the bays full with mooring balls so that you HAVE TO pick one up. You can anchor just about anywhere you want to without getting pressured to pick up a ball.
No Cruising fees!!! - When in the BVI we pay a fee for the boat and a fee for every crew member for every day. This typically mounts up to another $200 or more. More Lobster & rum money down the drain!
No C&I fees! - When you arrive in the SVI get all the passports together and give C&I a call. They take all of you info and give you a confirmation number. You're done. No overtime charges, and no time lost going out of your way to get to C&I, and with AT&T the call is free! Sweeeeeeeeeet.
No cell phone roaming fees!!! (for AT&T anyhow) - I get beat-up in the BVI, and completely abused in St. Vincent & the Grenadines when trying to check in with the home front, call C&I, make reservations for dinner ashore, etc. If you've got AT&T National Plan you don't pay a single penny extra for phone and data services when cruising in the SVI. Coverage is great!
No departure tax in the SVI! Come on BVI! Really!!!!??? We have to pay to leave?
I figure we saved, with a crew of 7, probably $600-$800 by avoiding all of these extra fees that you get when cruising the BVI. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Clapping.gif" alt="" />
