Xmas in July 25 2026 at Pond Bay

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Xmas in July is an annual event celebrated at Pond Bay, Virgin Gorda

hosted by Wally Castro Marine, Marcos Rivera, and the BVI Tourist Board.

Experience the Ultimate Boating Celebration: Xmas in July 25 2026 at Pond Bay

For the 14th edition, this event is one of the most awaited nautical events for boaters and beach enthusiasts (with a record participation of 500 boats and more than 6,000 people). This weekend event brings together the boating community from Puerto Rico—affectionately called the PR Navy—the local community, and BVI visitors to celebrate a summer’s end tradition with lots of fun.

During this family event, guests can expect to see hundreds of boats together enjoying a beach party with live music, bands from the BVI and Puerto Rico, local restaurants, food, and drinks. In addition, Xmas in July is an event that creates an impact locally, giving back to non-profit organizations and environmental conservation through various initiatives during the event. The official tumbler, a reusable cup, is your ticket to the open bar of the event.

Planning your route through the British Virgin Islands

  • Known as a valuable destination rich in undiscovered experiences, the British Virgin Islands (BVI) is an attractive archipelago of 60 islands and cays located 80 kilometers (60 miles) east of Puerto Rico in the northwest region of the Caribbean Sea.
  • The main islands of Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost Van Dyke have attracted travelers from around the globe with their Caribbean cultural authenticity. Located on Tortola, Road Town is the capital of the British Virgin Islands.
  • Considered the sailing capital of the Caribbean, the BVI also boasts some of the world’s most famous snorkeling and diving spots. The destination’s vast topography provides unique opportunities for hiking, outdoor adventures and sustainable tourism.
  • Whether you choose to explore by ferry or chartered yacht, some of the must-see attractions in the BVI include The Baths of Virgin Gorda, the Rhone Shipwreck off the coast of Salt Island, the caves off the coast of Norman Island, the flamingos on Anegada, White Bay Beach on Jost Van Dyke, and Sage Mountain on Tortola.
  • Despite being a territory of the United Kingdom, the BVI uses the U.S. dollar as its official currency.
  • The islands are the perfect place to practice the well-known “Island Hopping” where you can rent a boat or take as a base one of the islands and use the ferries to visit different islands and places.
  • Currently, you only need your valid passport to enter the territory.

The BVI can be reached in two ways:

  • By plane
  • By private pleasure boat

To get to the British Virgin Islands you can fly direct to Tortola (Code: EIS) or Virgin Gorda (Code: VIJ).

If you travel by plane there are several airlines that have direct flights, these are:

  • CapeAir
  • InterCaribbean
  • Silver Airways

Ports of entry (Effective since May 1st, 2023)

  • West End – 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
  • Road Town – 8:30 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
  • Jost Van Dyke – 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
  • Virgin Gorda (Spanish Town) – 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Daily | 8:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

It is now an entry requirement for vessels to complete the Customs process through the SailClear platform. Follow the steps below:

  • Register at www.sailclear.com
  • Upload your vessel and crew documents.
  • Create an entry notification
  • Go through customs with your entry notification at your preferred port of entry.

For more information, contact the British Virgin Islands Tourism Office in Puerto Rico at: 787-721-2525 or bvi@prlinksco.com.

Where to stay?

BOOKING OPTIONS
properties with marina

bitter end yacht club

nanny cay resort &marina

the moorings marina

hodge´s creek marina hotel

village cay

steele point villa (private dock)

jy harbour view marina

scrub island resort, spa & marina

leverick bay resort & marina

saba rock

oil nut bay

rainbows end villa

Peter Island Resort & Marina

properties without marina

gordian terrace

bay view vacation apartments

virgin gorda village

guavaberry spring bay vacation homes

mango bay resort

rosewood little dix bay

MARK YOUR ROUTE AND VISIT

THE OFFICIAL STOPS OF XIJ

Whether it’s your first time in the BVI or you’re a seasoned connoisseur, welcome to our Official Itinerary for Xmas in July. From Thursday July 23 through Monday July 27, we’ve partnered with the islands’ best marinas, restaurants and resorts to bring you the ultimate welcome experience on the water.

Every day you’ll find a Signature Moment, carefully crafted to max out your fun in the islands. A welcome party here, a one-of-a-kind menu there, a pool party somewhere in between. We strongly suggest you visit each and every stop along the route. Trust us, they won’t disappoint.

And if you’re into collecting Xmas in July merch, be sure to ask each stop for their official sticker. We’ve got prizes for the crews who collect them all and post on Instagram tagging @xmasinjulyparty and @bviturismo.

Trace your route, drop anchor, and let the celebration lead the way.

Tap to expand details of the Stops

Tap to zoom

¡Donate to Beyond The Reef!

Your support and contributions will enable us to continue protecting the ocean ecosystems of the BVI and encourage & educate the next generations to protect it!