Booking BVI in hurricane session

rockDAWG · #1 (**permalink**) 07-22-2010

Due to scheduling, the only time we can take sailing vacation in mid August. OK, we may have some risk of not able to go at all.

If you were me, would you take this risk?

Ulladh · #2 (**permalink**) 07-22-2010

Go for it, you may get lucky with the weather, but get trip insurance.

Check the charter contract and airline for named storm refund policy.

Saildoggie · #3 (**permalink**) 07-22-2010

Just returned from the BVI's Jly 10, we had wonderful weather on an 11 day charter.
This past week has been havok down there, 88" of rain some days, 40+ knot winds, lotss of flooding, the wave has passed and heading for the US Gulf.

I say go for it and hope for the best!!

There are NO BAD DAYS in 'de Ilons...

FarCry · #4 (**permalink**) 07-22-2010

Conditions must have been substantially worse just a few miles further east than what I encountered on St Thomas. We did get a lot of rain but I'm sure it wasn't 88".

Quote:

Originally Posted by Saildoggie

Just returned from the BVI's Jly 10, we had wonderful weather on an 11 day charter.
This past week has been havok down there, 88" of rain some days, 40+ knot winds, lotss of flooding, the wave has passed and heading for the US Gulf.

I say go for it and hope for the best!!

There are NO BAD DAYS in 'de Ilons...

hellosailor · #5 (**permalink**) 07-22-2010

Yeah, BUY TRIP INSURANCE.

There's a reason everyplace discounts heavily in the off season and forgets to mention it is also called STORM SEASON. That can mean good wind for sailing but I wouldn't do it without a complete cancellation or trip insurance package--and make sure that covers weather, and airfare, and all the other loopholes.

Then take your foulies and enjoy.

stevemac00 · #6 (**permalink**) 07-23-2010

We went in July a few years ago and stayed 2 weeks (booked an Island Packet out of Red Hook). It was so much more enjoyable than in the winter/spring as you had a much better choice of anchorages or moorings.

It wasn't too hot and the snorkeling was great in the warm water. I'd readily go again the summer. It rained a little every day but then the sun would be back out. That kept the boat clean. The trade winds were a constant 15k.

In summary, it was the best time we've ever had in the VI. Island Yachts suggested I get trip insurance but the price was so high I decided to self insure.

SrSeabass · #7 (**permalink**) 07-25-2010

I booked a trip to the BVI the year before last in 1st week of sept. Due to work it was my only option. It turned out great. I finalized the trip only 5 days before as we watched and tracked storms in the area. Given the season there was plenty of availability and the price was discounted. It was nice not having all the competition around for the top spots. I took out the trip insurance, went with The Moorings, and was very detailed in my preparation with the base should a serious storm target the area. My recommendation is to do the prep work so your less worried and then go for it.

Chuteman · #8 (**permalink**) 07-26-2010

rD:
You say it's the only time You can go - so end of discussion

As you get deeper into the hurricane / rainy season, there are usually more fronts, greater chance of rain and disruption in the usual tradewinds. But you are still in the Carib

Trip Insurance - don't buy from Charter company as their policies are narrow & not all that competitive when compared to open market.

When dealing with Weather coverage - the fine print & company selection is very important. There are several brokers that can help You choose - here are two examples.......speak with a Rep and explain the risk you are trying to insure. Each company handles weather related items differently

Cruise, Travel, Trip Insurance | Avoid the Traps With Personal Advice, Side-By-Side Comparisons

Travel Insurance - InsureMyTrip.com

Enjoy the trip

rockDAWG · #9 (**permalink**) 07-27-2010

Thanks for the links.

I guess I need to call them regarding how they handle the hurricane situation. They seem only insure for personal and accident related coverage, no weather related coverage.

Chuteman · #10 (**permalink**) 07-27-2010

rD:
You just have to dig a little to find it on the web site - but more importantly each company handles it a little different

here's a little more info to help you get up to speed.

Bad Weather and Natural Disaster Coverage in a Travel Insurance policy

I've purchased it for weather & parents illness in the past, alway say that once I buy it, nothing will happen........but unless you want to "self-insure" the whole trip in a risky time of the year - it's worth taking a look & getting some quotes - so you can make an informed decision.