BVI Moorings and BoatyBall

Most overnight stops in the British Virgin Islands are mooring balls rather than anchoring, and the balls come in two flavours. This is what you actually need to know before you plan the week.

Reservable orange BoatyBall balls

Orange BoatyBall balls are reservable and cost $55 a night. Reservations open at 07:00 on the day of the stay through the BoatyBall app. If you want a specific bay on a specific night, this is the only way to lock it in.

First come, first served white balls

White balls are first come, first served and are paid locally, typically $30–40 a night. In the busy bays, plan to arrive early in the afternoon.

The Bight, Norman Island, is not reservable

The balls in The Bight at Norman Island are paid locally on the night and are not BoatyBall reservable. Do not build a first night around a booking there.

National Parks Trust day buoys

NPT day buoys at stops such as The Indians and The Caves at Treasure Point are day use only — 90 minutes at a time. You need an NPT permit, which your charter company normally arranges with the boat. Park rules and permits: BVI National Parks Trust — Marine Conservation Programme.

See how the balls fall day by day in the 5-day, 7-day and 10-day BVI itineraries, or start from the British Virgin Islands destination guide.