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.
The BVI can be reached in two ways:
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:
Ports of entry (Effective since May 1st, 2023)
It is now an entry requirement for vessels to complete the Customs process through the SailClear platform. Follow the steps below:
For more information, contact the British Virgin Islands Tourism Office in Puerto Rico at: 787-721-2525 or bvi@prlinksco.com.
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.
Thu Jul 23 – 11am-3pm
The route kicks off where two flags become one. BVI meets Puerto Rico. Pusser’s throwing the Virgin Rico Party, the official welcome fête for the PR Navy as the fleet lands at Soper’s Hole. Live music & DJ, a Caribbean fusion menu, fashion show, 2 new signature cocktails and plenty of giveways and prizes. What better way to do Customs & Immigration?
Tie up, grab your first sticker, and let the island-hopping begin.
Thu Jul 23 / 12pm-4pm
Pull into White Bay for a proper no-shoes preXmas in July Beach Party at Hendo’s Hideout. The sand of JVD will turn festive with a DJ, drink specials, and a full beach barbecue: whole roasted pig, fresh grilled lobster, beef brisket, barbecued chicken, and all the island favorites. Kick back, dig in, and soak up that laid-back Hendo’s beach vibe.
Thu Jul 24 / 9am-1pm
Kick off the route in full holiday spirit at Omar’s Coffee House, because let’s be real, it may be July, but it just isn’t Christmas without a good old Coquito. Be sure to try our Frozen Coquito de Verano, our house-recipe twist on the Puerto Rican classic, best enjoyed beside a decked-out Christmas tree with a “Xmas in July” photo op and our festive playlist to match. You can also try our cold brew and local coffee to keep your crew fueled for the sailing ahead.
Sun Jul 26 / From 8am
Set course for Anegada and drop anchor at the Lobster Trap, where the bar opens at 8:00 AM sharp and Happy Hour drink specials run all day long. On the menu: spicy stuffed chicken breast and spicy lobster tacos, plus all the house favorites you already love. And a little extra Xmas in July magic: the first 50 boats get a free Lobster Trap pennant (one per boat) to fly on the way home. Come hungry, leave decorated.
Thu Jul 23 & Fri Jul 24 / All day
Swing into Trellis Bay and make the Loose Mongoose your fuel-and-flavor stop. Thursday and Friday bring all-day Happy Hour Specials with two signature drink specials, plus themed plates of fried pork, chicharrones and tostones alongside the tacos you already know. Filling up? Enjoy 5% off fuel from Friday through Monday, and a free Loose Mongoose pennant with your fuel purchase and for the first 50 boats (one per boat). Top off the tank, top off the crew.
Thu Jul 23 – Sat Jul 25 / Lunch, 12pm-3pm
The flamboyant flavors of Puerto Rico are taking over Donovan’s Reef for three unforgettable days of island-inspired celebrations, from July 23rd to 25th! Indulge in festive specials like crispy tostones, mofongo with shrimp, and mouthwatering bacalaitos bursting with authentic Caribbean flavour. Meet Santa on the dock at our marina, snap a selfie under the Christmas Tree, then soak up the sunshine as we celebrate Xmas in July in sizzling island style. Join us at Scrub Island for delicious food, festive fun, and a tropical holiday celebration you won’t want to miss!
Fri Jul 24 & Mon July 27 / 3pm-6pm
Drop anchor off Norman Island, the cove said to have inspired Treasure Island itself, and climb aboard the Willy T, the most notorious floating bar in the BVI. For Xmas in July, the crew is rigging the deck in full holiday mischief and pouring the Santa Sauce, cold and just a little dangerous. Grab a pair of Christmas shades, throw on some red-and-green beads or a holiday lei straight from the bartenders, and let this floating pirate party be the rowdiest stop on your whole route. Just try to keep your hat on when you jump.
Fri Jul 24 / 7pm-12pm
Come for an evening BBQ Buffet on the Beach with special Puerto Rican dishes on the menu. Beginning with Happy Hour at Jumbies Bar from 4pm to 7pm, featuring drink specials on Tito’s Vodka and Don Q Rum throughout the evening. The decorations will be up and the staff will be in the Christmas spirit, so come dressed for the holiday! Our live band begins at 7pm, and the Moko Jumbies and Fire Dancers will perform after dinner. The DJ will get the crowd moving at 9 and play until midnight, featuring hits from Puerto Rico. The best Friday night BBQ on Virgin Gorda is getting a Puerto Rican twist for Christmas Eve in July!
Fri Jul 24 / 4pm-7pm
Join us for xMàs Biras, our signature Christmas in July celebration — an afternoon of music, sunset vibes and effortless gathering by the sea. Discover Merry Mangrove, a Caribbean inspired rum cocktail created exclusively for the occasion, and celebrate the season in true Biras style. No reservation required.
Fri Jul 24 to Mon July 27 / 11am-11pm
This stop is cooking up something festive for Xmas in July. The details are still under wraps, so drop a pin and check back soon, you won’t want to miss what they’ve got planned.
Sat Jul 25 & Sun Jul 26 / 11am-9pm
Oil Nut Bay welcomes you and your crew to Fiesta del Puerto, a signature pool party wih a Bohemian twist. Artisan bites, gormet pizzas, crafted cocktails and happy hour specials that will run all week.
Sun Jul 26 / All day · BBQ 1pm-3pm
Cap off Xmas in July week at Bitter End Yacht Club with their signature Christmas in July Beach BBQ on the shores of the North Sound. From 1 to 3 PM, gather on the sand for island-style barbecue and drink specials, then stay and make a day of it. Swim, soak up the sun, and settle in as the DJ spins into the evening and the sky turns gold over the anchorage. Free and open to the public. Come for the barbecue, stay for the sunset.
Sun Jul 26 / 8pm-11pm
Saba Rock is welcoming the PR Navy for Xmas in July, as an official stop on the route – and we’re bringing the heat, literally. Sunday 26th & Monday 27th July, 8-11 PM. Whole pig roast, a full Caribbean buffet spread, and an optional free-flow drinks package to keep the good times going, up at the Sunset Bar with the North Sound views and DJ spinning all night. Pull up, grab your sticker, and let’s celebrate Xmas in July the Saba Rock way! Email events@sabarock.com for all inquiries and reservations.
Sun Jul 26 / 9am-4pm
Escape to Top of The Baths for the ultimate poolside experience, where breathtaking views, refreshing waters, and nonstop island vibes come together for an unforgettable day. Enjoy a lively pool party featuring a live DJ, authentic Puerto Rican cuisine, refreshing cocktails, exciting raffles, fun games, and giveaways throughout the day. Whether you’re relaxing by the pool, dancing to great music, indulging in delicious food, or soaking in the stunning scenery, there’s something for everyone. Bring your swimsuit, your crew, and your best energy, and let Top of The Baths be your destination for good food, great drinks, unforgettable memories, and the best vibes in the British Virgin Islands.