Offshore is where skill meets adventure.
Calm bays and short hops? That's behind you now.
This is where sailors step up: night watches, weather routing, navigation under pressure. True offshore sailing means challenges. And that’s exactly what you’ll face, with Sailing Virgins by your side.
Set sail on a thrilling offshore voyage designed for intermediate to advanced sailors eager for both skill-building and adventure. Each course takes place aboard a spacious and reliable vessel, making it the perfect setting to accumulate nautical miles, sharpen your sailing techniques, and become proficient with the watch system.
Prepare for a journey led by 1-2 ASA-certified instructors, who ensure each passage is as educational as it is exhilarating. With the option to complete certifications like ASA 114 and 105 (for those who already hold ASA 104), you’ll return with both new skills and unforgettable memories.
Whether you’re sailing between islands or navigating open ocean stretches, be ready for potential weather-related adjustments and ensure you have valid travel documentation as needed for your route.
This is not just a course—it’s a life-changing adventure on the open sea.
We’re the #1 adventure sailing school on TripAdvisor. Our offshore courses aren’t about sitting in class. They're about real-world seamanship in dynamic and awe-inspiring locations.
Our ASA-certified instructors combine professional expertise with an adventurous spirit that makes advanced training dynamic and engaging. Even Vogue has featured our unique approach.
Aside from that, we also offer:
ASA certifications recognized worldwide
Elite instructors who live for offshore passages
Performance-focused, social learning environment
Our courses help sailors like you cross the line from competent to confident.
Real offshore training requires the right boat. You'll sail on spacious, well-equipped catamarans (40ft+) specifically chosen for offshore comfort and performance.
These sailboats provide the perfect balance of safety, speed, and living space for extended passages across open water.
Tripadvisor
Reviews
Philip S
@PhilipScranageMay 2025 • Friends
Had some of the greatest sailing of my life with this team. Nacha and Pascal were the best instructors we could hope for and I came away feeling well-equipped to go out on a bareboat charter with friends or family. The things I learned about most surprised me - the process of checking out a rental boat, the smells and sounds you should expect when sleeping on a boat, how to cook a meal on a close reach when the boat is heeled over.
Debra G
@debradltgMay 2025 • Solo
The Sailing Virgins videos got me through the pandemic. I believed this group knew how to teach sailing while creating fun and adventure. I was right. I built upon my skillset and learned so much about my capabilities and team building on this trip. My primary goal was to assess and enhance my learning needs and determine whether I could safely skipper a charter of friends and family. Each member of our crew had its own learning goals, and we all passed our tests at the end of the trip. We were able to raft up with another small group which made the evenings ashore even more memorable. I had not traveled to the BVI's since 2019. They are as beautiful as I remembered.
Eric P
@ericpR7101JAMar 2025 • Solo
Sailing Virgins is a great company that is well organized and has great values that match their clients. They keep a fun and positive attitude at all times and focus on the adventure and experience, not just the learning! Have been on trips with them twice and each time has been a blast!
Nathan S
@337nathansFeb 2025 • Couples
James is one of the best leaders I have ever met. He has a kind and genuine way about him that earns your respect immediately, not because he asks for it, but because he deserves it. He puts the group first and the person he’s teaching a close second. He is especially good at teaching by letting you learn through doing. He doesn’t over-explain or hover. Instead, he gives you space to practice and steps in with the right feedback at the right time. It makes for a great learning experience and an even better trip. I would sail with him again in a heartbeat. Highly recommend.
Matt A
@mattaO2034KTAfter many years of debating a Sailing Virgins trip, finally pulled the trigger and joined on a catamaran adventure in the British Virgin Islands. Should not have waited so long. Went solo but had no issue blending with a likeminded crew of genuinely good and friendly people. Coordination prior to the trip was handled smoothly by the SV team and communications were frequent and clear. The boat itself was fantastic - well equipped and in great condition. Captains Chris and Fin kept us safe, entertained, and taught along the way. They went above and beyond fulfilling our desires for adventure, beach hoping, finding great moorings, and overall being enjoyable blokes to be around. Particular highlight was a beach bonfire after an already long sail day - vibes were great the entire week. Only downside was the trip had to end. Won't be long until the next one.
Javier S
@javiersO9063PWJan 2025 • Solo
Outstanding. Perfect combination between learning and fun. Finn, the instructor was excellent. He made sure that each one of us had a chance to practice not only sailing itself but also things like mooring and docking. I am particularly grateful that he made sure we tried as many times as necessary so that each one of us had done it right, which I am very grateful for. Definitely recommend!
Clara S
@clarasX2778YFJan 2025 • Solo
A great week learning how to sail a monohull with instructor Finn in one of the most renowned sailing spots in the world. The mixture of adventure and instruction was perfect, and I came away from the week with more confidence on the water.
Laksh
@its_lakshDec 2024 • Couples
Outstanding sailing experience with Virgin Sails in BVI. I got my ASA 103, 104 and 114 under the tutelage of Capt James Finney. He was a great instructor. Patient and thorough. The only drawback was because so much learning happened in one week we were unable to go as deep in the course material and practice the maneuvers as regular ASA course. This was not fault of the instructor or sailing course. It was just because three certifications were covered in one week on a Catamaran. We also got to snorkel and swim. Loved it !!
Bluewater Breeze Co
@BluewaterBreezeCoNov 2024 • Solo
I attended the BVI Sailing week and had a blast! I took several ASA courses and added onto my sailing skill set! Flying into and out of Tortola was extremely easy. Kathi gave me clear directions on where to meet and when. James is a incredible teacher and instructor and could cater to each students learning style!
Offshore sailing presents challenges you'll never encounter hugging the coastline. Unlike day sailing or weekend races, offshore passages require comprehensive preparation and self-sufficiency.
You'll learn to handle wind and water conditions beyond the norm, practice proper anchor techniques, and develop leadership skills while maintaining crew morale during extended periods at sea.
These skills create a foundation that serves you anywhere in the world, complete with the certification that charter companies respect.
Forget the "easy sailing" mindset. Our week-long, liveaboard courses teach you:
If you join with ASA 104, you'll finish with ASA 106 certification (after completing ASA 105 at home) and be ready to skipper offshore safely and confidently.
Our offshore courses are ideal for sailors who already hold ASA 104 (Bareboat Cruising) and are looking to add:
Already have ASA 103? Contact us about combining ASA 104 with your offshore training.
Our offshore sailing courses provide genuine blue water experience in some of the world's most beautiful sailing grounds.
You'll train with experienced instructors who bring real-world knowledge to every lesson. Whether you're preparing for your offshore adventure or looking to build serious nautical miles, our courses will prepare you like no other.
Limited spots are available for each offshore passage. Maximum 5 students per instructor ensures personalized attention.
ㆍWhat certifications do I need before taking an offshore course?
You should have ASA 104 (Bareboat Cruising) or equivalent experience. This course is designed for intermediate to advanced sailors looking to build offshore skills. If you only have ASA 103, contact us to discuss options for combining certifications.
ㆍWhat certifications can I earn during the offshore course?
Depending on your existing certifications, you can earn ASA 106 (Advanced Coastal Cruising) and ASA 114 (Catamaran Endorsement) if training on a catamaran. ASA 105 (Coastal Navigation) can be completed before arrival.