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The central Bitter End village along Marina Beach features a mix of new materials and those salvaged from the destruction inflicted by Hurricane Irma in September 2017. (PHOTO COURTESY OF BEYC)

Celebrating Fifty Years in 2023: The Bitter End Yacht Club Is Back!

By Michelle Slade

We approached the Bitter End Yacht Club by water and the scene that opened up before us hummed with early morning activity — boats tying up at the docks, the open-air reception area a dynamic pass-through for guests coming and going, and playful kids leaping off a floating pontoon into the warm turquoise water just off the beach. Those first impressions captured the essence of something that was different to what had been before, yet in many ways, was just the same as it always had been. 

The world-renowned and beloved resort, which has existed in some iteration since the ‘60s, is open again for business after a devastating loss in the wake of Hurricane Irma in September 2017. The resort lost some one hundred structures; just one original cottage was spared. When disaster strikes, there is nothing more to do than to gather the pieces and start the next chapter, which is precisely what the folks at the Bitter End Yacht Club have been doing these past six years. Rebuilding the resort in the British Virgin Islands’ North Sound has been as much of a spiritual endeavor as a physical task of reconstruction; it needed to be purposeful, as Kerri Jaffe, President, BEYC International, noted.

“We looked to our history because it was so important to us that people felt that legacy and sense of place when they arrived at the new BEYC,” she said. “We had to find ways to reinvent that so it existed in every element of what we did.”$0

Over 50 years, based on the needs of the clientele and the owner’s vision, the original BEYC had become a rambling nautical village, and the tactical design goal was to preserve that feeling. Recreating the original BEYC perfectly would have been inauthentic, so while inspiration has been lifted from the past, it is noticeable that each structure has a different look and feel through the use of contrasting wood species, color, and mixed materials — old and new — which have succeeded in recapturing that quintessential village feeling and the resort’s salty past. 

The new build is hurricane-proof to modern standards and flood-friendly, and the overall layout is compact, which draws people together around cocktails and a multi-dimensional dining experience: grab coffee and pastries (all handcrafted onsite) to go at the Bitter End Barista or enjoy casual dining inside at The Buoy Room. The Reef Sampler brings together boats, beaches, and bars … right on the beach. A boat-turned-bar constructed from a salvaged hull raised from the North Sound following Irma, The Reef Sampler is just one of many recycled details incorporated into the reconstruction.

Likewise, décor in The Clubhouse Restaurant, which offers open-air dining and incredible views of the North Sound, has been recovered from hurricane debris adding to its rustic-with-a-touch-of-nautical elegance in keeping with its origins; The Clubhouse was possibly the earliest bar in the North Sound, built by Bitter End’s first proprietor as a spot for yachties to stop by for cocktails and a meal.

“Everything hanging on the gallery wall in The Clubhouse survived the storm,” Jaffe said. “As a steward of the seas and the community that surrounds the resort through the Bitter End Foundation, it was mission critical to the owners that we kept the environmental footprint as small as possible. We really foraged, we upcycled and recycled every scrap of material we could including timber, large-scale beams, we crushed all of the concrete for reuse. Among the debris, we found pieces of BEYC history — room signage, directional signage, photography, portholes, which was so special and we knew these elements would connect the old with the new.” 

Presently, the resort has just two stunning Marina Lofts — the first over-the-water bungalows in the BVI — available for overnight stays on the island. The rebuild plan intended first to establish dining and recreation amenities to host the boating community, many of whom stay aboard private vessels. The long-term plan, says Jaffe, is a 22-room boutique hotel, six Marina Lofts, hillside cottages, duplex cottages for large groups, and, for the first time, six beach “shacks,” which will be located to the north of the watersports center.

Boating guests are enjoying the new marina with its wider slips and dockage layout customized to accommodate boats of all sizes and shapes, including multihulls, and the anchorage option via any one of 72 mooring balls. The BVI has long been recognized as the watersport playground of the Caribbean and nowhere better than from the Bitter End is it possible to sail, kiteboard, wingfoil, windsurf, SUP, or fish. The BEYC’s watersports center offers rental gear, and instructors are at hand. Bonus: boaters are welcome to use the club showers; charge is $3 for those who aren’t club guests. Anyone taking a lesson at the watersports center can shower for free.

Many of the staff at BEYC have been part of the fabric of BEYC history for years through their parents and their grandparents, notes marketing manager Ellinor Walters Donlan, who resides part-time at BEYC. She attributes much of the success of the rejuvenation of the BEYC to its team.

“These are the people that brought the spirit back to the property for us, not how the buildings looked but how the resort felt. We want people to feel that spirit and feel like part of our family because that’s part of the magic that brings people back. We have an absolutely gorgeous location and one of the best places to play on the water in the world but the way BEYC makes people feel is unique.”

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This Resort Has the First Overwater Bungalows in the British Virgin Islands

The overwater bungalow life, without a flight to the Maldives.

Bitter End Yacht Club , a nautical-themed resort in the British Virgin Islands, reopened in 2021 after complete destruction by Hurricane Irma in 2017.

Following a four-year closure and ground-up rebuild, the newly reimagined Bitter End Yacht Club will welcome guests back to the 64-acre island outpost located on Virgin Gorda. What's more, the property is now outfitted with all-new Marina Lofts, which will be the only overwater bungalows in the British Virgin Islands.

Originally founded in 1969, the family-friendly resort is only accessible by boat which has made it a popular attraction for sailors and yacht enthusiasts for more than 50 years. The sprawling seaside resort is named after its secluded location at the intersection of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, otherwise known as the "end of the line."

"The village is an incarnation of Bitter End's roots as a yachting destination and sailor's hangout. Its beach, seawall, and plaza are dotted with seating areas designed for settling down with a cold drink and conversation, a favorite book, or simply taking in the beautiful expanse of North Sound," said owner Lauren Hokin.

Guests can check in at the main plaza, known as the Quarterdeck Marina, which is a two-story, open-air venue with an ocean-facing lounge upstairs and a wraparound terrace. The newly renovated waterfront plaza also includes the Clubhouse restaurant, water sports center, and Reeftique Boutique. Sailors will also find 70 mooring balls and 25 marina slips available for yacht charters and non-hotel guests looking to dock their boat and rest their sea legs at The Bitter End Village.

Two of the Marina Lofts are complete and available for guest bookings with up to 10 more bungalows scheduled for build in the near future. Inspired by vintage sail lofts, the timber bungalows feature a daybed on the first-floor lounge and second-floor master suite with a king-sized bed and bath amenities. The indoor-outdoor space offers a private terrace on both floors with panoramic views of North Sound as well as a hammock for lazy days in the sun.

Bitter End Yacht Club offers five dining options to choose from, including a casual pizza-and-wine concept at the Clubhouse Restaurant and a sunken vessel salvaged from Hurricane Irma that's become a one-of-a-kind beach bar. There is a small garden on property, Bitter End Farms, that will supply fruits, vegetables, and herbs for the restaurants in addition to partnering with local fisherman and farmers to highlight Caribbean flavors.

For grab-and-go prepared food, fresh-caught seafood, and snacks, the Bitter End Market will have local provisions in stock for long voyages at sea, including the chef's world-famous key lime pie. Water sports enthusiasts will also appreciate the new fleet of water toys which include stand-up paddleboards, kiteboards, and sailboats paired with group and private instruction for anyone looking to improve their skills on the water.

With its gentle trade winds, cobalt blue waters, and near-perfect weather year-round, the British Virgin Islands have had a long-standing reputation for being a sailor's paradise. The return of Bitter End Yacht Club and its "built by sailors for sailors" legacy is an exciting development for yachters looking to spend a day ashore and travelers keen on the overwater bungalow life without the long-haul flight.

Check out the renderings of the new resort or make a reservation here .

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Bitter End is Back

• By By Kate Lardy
• Updated: December 15, 2020

When Hurricane Irma unleashed the fury of her Category 5 winds on the BVI’s Bitter End Yacht Club in 2017, reducing nearly every building to rubble, the destruction was so complete that you would be forgiven for thinking it was the end of the Bitter End — but you’d be wrong.

Thirty hours after the storm the owners, Richard Hokin and his daughter Lauren Hokin, were on a plane to the islands. “We made up our minds on the way down that we would make this an opportunity, not a catastrophe,” Richard says. The rebuild began with a massive cleanup that left the area as virgin as Richard and his parents first found it in the mid-1960s. They fell in love with the perfect anchorage tucked within Virgin Gorda’s well-protected North Sound, framed by verdant hills and blessed by the reliable tradewinds. When they purchased Bitter End less than a decade later, it was a quaint gem with just a couple docks, a restaurant and some very basic guest cabins.

Over the ensuing decades Bitter End grew in amenities and scope parallel to the BVI’s blossoming charter business, and in the ’90s it doubled in size to 64 acres when the Hokins acquired an adjacent property. When Irma hit, it was essentially two resorts put together back to back, as Richard describes it. “Use of the shoreline and land was very inefficient and didn’t take advantage of the natural features of the place.”

Then Irma gave them a reset button. “Mother Nature scolded us with Irma for having created all this sprawl on her masterpiece, so we’re taking her at her word,” he says. “We are putting it back together in a way where we are better stewards of the land.”

“We’re trying to be very sensitive to our environmental footprint, returning as much of the shoreline as possible to its natural state,” Lauren adds. “The beach is coming back in a really beautiful way, wildlife are returning and we’re planning a mangrove restoration project.”

An unexpected gift from Irma is a much larger beach than before. From here, the transition to the nautical village on shore is gentle and organic. Guests can expect timber construction and very little glazing, with plenty of open-air ventilation and AC only where needed. It’s rustic yet beautiful, with soft surfaces underfoot that lend themselves to bare feet and seamless integration of the indoors and out.

The new development will be a fresh and exciting departure from the pre-Irma resort but at the same time it will be sweetly familiar. Over the last three years, the resort has kept in constant communication with what they call their extended family across the globe and they got the message when 2,000 nostaglic guests answered a survey with the overwhelming sentiment of “keep it the same.” While replicating the old development would not have been practical, the new resort preserves a sense of history and place by incorporating memorabilia and artifacts that were discovered amid the storm debris. Signage, vintage lanterns and bits of nautical hardware will remind returning guests of the old days.

Perhaps more importantly, though, Bitter End 2.0 will honor the resort’s unique character and communal spirit. Originally built by a charter captain, it was a quirky spot attracting an odd cast of salty sailors before the Hokin family entered the picture, and when they did they weren’t looking to get into the resort business. First and foremost, they wanted a family retreat where they could do what they loved: sailing, fishing, diving, beachcombing. The commercial operation was merely a justification for the purchase, and this relaxed ethos has prevailed over the years. It’s a place where fast friendships are formed, where America’s Cup yachtsmen can mess around on boats alongside a family who is just learning to sail.

“We don’t take ourselves too seriously. We are about having an awesome time on the water, letting your inner kid free. That’s the spirit of the place,” Lauren says.

Hence informal beer can regattas will be central to the sailing program when Bitter End reopens in 2021. Phase one, to be completed in the first half of the year, focuses on the marina. It will offer a similar capacity as before with 26 slips and 72 moorings, but amenities will be much improved, like wifi that reaches throughout the mooring field and upgraded bathing facilities. The new two-story marina building will feature a panoramic members’ lounge, and the clubhouse will encompass a multi-concept restaurant, including the all-important pub. Adjacent to this will be a gourmet grocers offering expanded wares. The nautical village’s retail shop will showcase a new addition to its select nautical goods and gear: Bitter End’s own apparel and accessories line called Bitter End Provisions , which was launched online during the rebuild to stay connected to the yacht club’s loyal fan base.

Of course, the famed fleet will be restored, providing favorites from paddleboards and Hobie Cats to one-design keelboats, as well as new additions with foils — something Richard’s “inner kid” is personally looking forward to.

“In the early days, we did some kind of wacky stuff,” he says, recalling “the Good Ship Bert and Ernie” — two Lasers strung together with plywood and duct tape for one big party. “I want to get that going again: keep the fun meter all the way over at full bore.”

A reopening date will be announced after the New Year. beyc.com ; bitterendprovisions.com

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Iconic Bitter End Yacht Club Rebuilds and Re-opens

• By Jen Brett
• June 6, 2022

If you’ve sailed in the British Virgin Islands , then you know the Bitter End Yacht Club . Its marina, bars, restaurants and watersports facilities have been a mainstay in Virgin Gorda’s North Sound since the ’70s.

Sailors around the world were crushed when the property was destroyed in 2017’s Hurricane Irma. Now, after massive rebuilding efforts throughout the BVI, the Bitter End is back—and on course to be better than ever.

Just before the winter 2021 holidays, the club raised the burgee and welcomed guests to a quiet opening of onshore amenities. While there is still much more to come, Kerri Quinn Jaffe, the Bitter End’s chief marketing officer, says that the Quarterdeck Marina, Reef Sampler Beach Bar, Buoy Room restaurant, gourmet market, and watersports center are open.

Marina and Mooring Field 

The new marina has wider slips, improved decking surfaces, enhanced skirting and upgraded power. There are also 72 moorings. The marina can take more than 25 yachts, including those up to 240 feet length overall, sail or power. Most slips are in 10 or more feet of water, and there are catamaran slips for wide beams. New dinghy docks, along with a complimentary launch service, and shoreside showers and ­facilities are all up and running.  

This is the place for a drink after a great day on the water. It’s set up with a pool table, darts and foosball. The location provides sweeping views of the North Sound and Marina Beach.  

Reef Sampler Beach Bar 

Constructed from the salvaged hull of the Reef Sampler , which was raised from the North Sound seabed following Hurricane Irma, this hangout is as Bitter End as you can get. The boat has been central to club life since the Bitter End’s founding. Cornhole, volleyball and the daily hermit crab race are all here.

The Market  

Bitter End’s new provisioning market has a selection of locally caught fish, garden-grown ­produce, fine spirits, frozen items and prepared dishes to stock your boat.

Bitter End Watersports 

There is nothing like hopping aboard a Hobie Wave for some fun on North Sound. Also available: other sailboats, kayaks, paddleboards, windsurfers, skiffs and various types of boards. Wing-surfing gear is stocked too, if you want to try the newest trending sport. Sunchaser Scuba offers scheduled dive trips and PADI certifications.

This is just the beginning of the Bitter End’s next chapter. Two overwater Marina Lofts bungalows are complete, with plans to add more. Still to come are the Clubhouse Restaurant; the Reeftique boutique; and the Quarterdeck Lounge, which will be a gathering spot with food and drinks on the upper deck of the Quarterdeck Marina building. Stay tuned!

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Bitter End Yacht Club 2.0 – Back and Better Than Ever!

The Bitter End Yacht Club has made a triumphant return after being devastated by Hurricane Irma in 2017. With the reopening of this iconic sailing center in the British Virgin Islands, sailors visiting Virgin Gorda’s North Sound can once again experience the charm and excitement that the Bitter End is known for.

Under new ownership, Bitter End 2.0 offers all the beloved attractions of the original, including bars, restaurants, and a watercraft center, along with some exciting new additions.

From the new marina to the Village Plaza , where you can enjoy alfresco dining and various water sports activities, the Bitter End is back and better than ever.

Whether you’re sailing down North Sound or relaxing in the Marina Loft apartments, the Bitter End promises to deliver unforgettable memories and adventures for sailors from all over the world.

The Bitter End is Back

For almost half a century the Bitter End Yacht Club has been the best-known and best-loved sailing center in the BVI and now the Bitter End Yacht Club is again welcoming bareboat and crewed yacht charters visiting Virgin Gorda’s North Sound.

If you’re not familiar with the Bitter End, you have a treat in store. Bitter End 2.0, as owner Lauren Hokin describes it, has all the attractions of the original plus quite a few more.

Bitter End 2.0 Attractions

The reopening of the Bitter End Yacht Club brought with it a host of new attractions and amenities. Bitter End 2.0, as it is affectionately known, aims to retain the charm and relaxed vibe of the original club while offering enhanced experiences for its guests.

Bars and Restaurants

One of the highlights of the Bitter End Yacht Club has always been its bars and restaurants, and Bitter End 2.0 is no exception. The club now features new and improved dining options , offering a variety of cuisines to cater to every palate.

Whether you’re in the mood for a casual snack or a high-end culinary experience, you’ll find a dining venue that suits your preferences.

Watercraft Center

For those who enjoy water sports and activities, the watercraft center at the Bitter End Yacht Club is a must-visit.

With a fleet of kayaks, paddleboards, kiteboards, and dinghies, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from for your aquatic adventures . Whether you’re a seasoned water sports enthusiast or a beginner looking to try something new, the watercraft center has something for everyone.

New Guises and Same Relaxed Vibe

While the Bitter End Yacht Club has undergone significant renovations and improvements, it has managed to retain its relaxed and laid-back atmosphere. The familiar charm of the club can still be felt, but now in a refreshed and revitalized setting.

Bitter End 2.0 offers a unique blend of old and new, giving guests the best of both worlds.

New Facilities and Amenities

The reopening of the Bitter End Yacht Club has brought forth a range of new facilities and amenities to enhance the guest experience. From a new marina and moorings to beachfront bungalows and a watersports center, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

New Marina and Moorings

Boaters and sailors will be pleased to know that the Bitter End Yacht Club now boasts a new marina and moorings. The marina offers docking and mooring options for boats of various sizes.

There are also 70 moorings available , with up to 15 of them reservable in advance. The remaining moorings are on a first-come, first-served basis, allowing sailors to have the flexibility they need while exploring the beautiful waters of the British Virgin Islands.

Quarterdeck Building

Upon arrival at the Bitter End Yacht Club, guests will check in at the new Quarterdeck building. This serves as the central hub for various activities and amenities offered by the club.

From there, guests can easily access the different areas of the club and begin their adventure.

Village Plaza and Clubhouse Restaurant

The Village Plaza is a new addition to the Bitter End Yacht Club, offering a charming space for guests to enjoy alfresco dining.

The Clubhouse restaurant, located within the Village Plaza, serves delicious meals that cater to a variety of tastes. Whether you’re in the mood for a casual lunch or a romantic dinner, the Clubhouse restaurant has you covered.

Reeftique Boutique

If you’re in need of beach clothing, swimwear, or unique souvenirs, look no further than the Reeftique Boutique.

This charming boutique offers a curated selection of items that are perfect for your beach getaway. From trendy swimsuits to stylish accessories, you’re sure to find something that catches your eye.

The Market Provisioning Shop

The Market provisioning shop is a one-stop destination for all your grocery and provisioning needs. Stocked with a wide range of products, including fresh produce, fine wines, and spirits, the Market has everything you need to prepare for your sailing adventure.

Additionally, you’ll find the renowned fresh bread and pastries from Winston’s Bakery, a favorite among Bitter End regulars.

Winning-And-or-Dining Venues

Bitter End 2.0 boasts five wining-and-or-dining venues, each offering a unique culinary experience. From casual snacks to high-end cuisine, there is something for every palate.

Guests can choose from a variety of dining options, ensuring that their taste buds are satisfied throughout their stay at the Bitter End Yacht Club.

Marina Loft Apartments

For those looking for a unique and luxurious accommodation experience, the Marina Loft apartments are the perfect choice. These over-water accommodations offer breathtaking views and direct access to the water.

Imagine stepping out of your apartment and onto a paddleboard or kayak, ready to explore the crystal-clear waters of the British Virgin Islands. The Marina Loft apartments are the first of their kind in the BVI, providing a truly unparalleled experience.

Beachfront Bungalows

If you prefer to be closer to the beach, the beachfront bungalows at the Bitter End Yacht Club are an excellent option.

These spacious and beautifully designed bungalows offer direct beach access and stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun or take a leisurely stroll along the shore, the beachfront bungalows provide the perfect setting for relaxation and rejuvenation.

North Sound as a Sailing Destination

The North Sound has always been a sought-after destination for sailors, and with the reopening of the Bitter End Yacht Club, it has become even more attractive. The North Sound serves as a perfect jumping-off point for charter sailors and offers excellent sailing opportunities, including a route to the beautiful island of Anegada.

The North Sound , with its calm waters and well-protected anchorages, is an ideal jumping-off point for charter sailors.

It provides a safe and reliable starting point for exploring the surrounding islands and offers easy access to popular sailing destinations in the British Virgin Islands. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or a beginner, the North Sound is a great place to embark on your sailing adventure.

Sailing to Anegada

One of the highlights of sailing in the British Virgin Islands is the opportunity to visit the stunning island of Anegada. Known for its pristine white sand beaches and abundant marine life, Anegada is a paradise for nature lovers and beach enthusiasts.

With the reopening of the Bitter End Yacht Club, sailors now have an even better reason to explore this beautiful island. The North Sound provides an excellent starting point for a sailing trip to Anegada, offering favorable sailing conditions and breathtaking views along the way.

The reopening of the Bitter End Yacht Club has made the North Sound an even more attractive destination for sailors. With its range of facilities and amenities, the club provides a convenient base for sailors to rest, recharge, and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding area.

Whether you’re looking to dine at one of the club’s restaurants, rent watercraft from the watersports center, or simply relax on the beach, the Bitter End Yacht Club offers something for everyone.

To embark on your next sailing adventure, Virgin Island Sailing offers no-cost services to help you plan and book your dream vacation. From selecting your departure date to choosing the number of passengers, you can customize every aspect of your trip to suit your preferences.

Our Charter Experts can help you get started planning your British Virgin Islands dream vacation… contact us today ! We offer luxury yachts for both bareboat and crewed yacht charters.

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PLEASE READ THESE TERMS AND CONDITIONS (“ Terms ”) CAREFULLY AS THEY CONTAIN IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING YOUR LEGAL RIGHTS, REMEDIES AND OBLIGATIONS AS WELL AS A SECTION GOVERNING THE JURISDICTION AND VENUE OF DISPUTES. THESE TERMS ALSO CONTAIN A LEGALLY BINDING RELEASE, WAIVER OF LIABILITY, AND ASSUMPTION OF RISK. By creating a username, a login, clicking submit, using the services of Charter Experts, LLC d/b/a Virgin Island Sailing® (“ Broker ) or by accessing Broker’s website, you agree that you have read, and acknowledge your acceptance of these Terms. The Terms are subject to change at any time without notice at Broker’s sole discretion. Additionally, any transaction for which you have made payment shall be governed by the form of Terms in effect at the time of such payment notwithstanding any subsequent changes hereto.

If you are obtaining a quote, information, booking travel for and/or securing or procuring a Charter (as that term is defined in Section 1 below) for more than just yourself, all references below to “Charterer” or “you” (and derivations thereof) shall be read to mean you on behalf of yourself and each individual within your group for whom you are obtaining a quote, information, booking travel for and/or securing or procuring Charter.

These Terms shall be read together and construed, to the fullest extent possible, to be in concert with any other agreement by or among Broker and Charterer. To the extent they cannot be so construed, then in the event of any direct conflict between these Terms and any other agreement by or among Broker and Charterer (including but not limited to the agreement executed by Charterer for a Charter Reservation (as that term is defined in Section 1 below), these Terms shall prevail.

• Prepaid Charter Reservations . Typically, Broker negotiates charter rates in advance with the yacht owner or charter company (“ Charter Provider ”) to obtain cost-effective rates, and facilitate reservations and availability for yacht charters, excursions and travel (the “ Charter ”). Broker also provides services to you by facilitating the booking of reservations for consideration and receives a commission from the Charter Provider (the “ Broker Fee ”). The Broker Fee is included in the pre-negotiated Charter rate provided to you, plus taxes and other fees where applicable. You agree that your payment is for the total amount set forth in the applicable Charter agreement (which Charter Provider may refer to as a Charter Contract, Charter Agreement, Booking Terms & Conditions, Instructions and Terms for Accommodations, as well as other derivations) provided to you by Broker (“ Charter Agreement ”). Upon execution of the Charter Agreement and receipt of the applicable deposit, you will have made a reservation for the Charter that authorizes Broker to facilitate the Charter on your behalf (“Charter Reservation”), including making payment arrangements with the Charter Provider. You further agree that Broker is a third-party beneficiary to the Charter Agreement and shall have the right to enforce such agreement to the extent it deems such enforcement necessary or advisable to protect its rights hereunder or under the Charter Agreement.

  Broker retains the Broker Fee as compensation in arranging your Charter Reservation. The Broker Fee varies based on the amount and type of Charter and/or services provided by Broker.  By making a Charter Reservation, you accept and agree to the relevant cancellation and no-show policy of the Charter Provider set forth in the Charter Agreement. Cancellation and no-show policies vary for each Charter. Carefully read the Charter Agreement and additional information provided to you by Broker. It is expressly agreed by Charterer that the Broker Fee is earned at the time the Charter Reservation is made. Late payment, wrong credit card or debit card details, invalid credit or debit cards, or insufficient funds are for your own risk and account, and you will not be entitled to any refund of any prepaid amount unless the Charter Provider expressly agrees otherwise under the Charter Agreement or in some other signed writing.

• Charter Rules and Restrictions . Additional terms and agreements will apply to your Charter Reservation and any purchase or rental of equipment or other items, supplies, provisions and travel you may select. Please read those additional terms carefully. In particular, if you have purchased airfare, please ensure that you read the full terms and conditions of carriage issued by the supplier. You agree to abide by the terms of purchase imposed by any supplier with whom you elect to deal, including but not limited to payment of all amounts when due and compliance with the supplier’s rules and restrictions regarding availability, charges, fares, and use of products and services.
• Payment . All payments must be made by personal check, bank/wire transfer, ACH payment and/or with a major credit card unless otherwise expressly stated. The total price for the Charter Reservation will be billed in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise stated. Some banks and credit card companies impose fees for international transactions. If you are making a reservation from outside of the United States on a US credit card, your bank may convert the payment amount to your local currency and charge you a conversion fee. This means the amount listed on your credit or bank card statement may be in your local currency and therefore a different figure than the amount provided by Broker for the Charter Reservation. In addition, a foreign transaction fee may be assessed if the financial institution that issued your credit card is located outside of the United States. Booking international travel may be considered to be an international transaction by the financial institution or card company. The currency exchange rate and foreign transaction fee is determined solely by your financial institution on the day that it processes the transaction. If you have any questions about these fees or the exchange rate applied to your booking, please contact your financial institution. Broker shall not be liable to you for any such service, conversion, or exchange fee.

  Broker expressly reserves the right to cancel your Charter Reservation if full payment is not timely received as set forth in the Charter Agreement.

• Cancellation and Rescheduling . You may cancel or change your Charter Reservation as set forth in the Charter Agreement by and among you, the Charter Provider and/or Broker. Please note that some Charter Providers do not permit changes to or cancellation of reservations after they are made, or after a certain date, as indicated in the Charter Agreement. You agree to abide by the terms of the Charter Agreement with respect to your Charter Reservation. Broker will not be responsible for reimbursing Charterer for any previously tendered deposits or payments by Charterer and disclaims all liability for the failure of a Charter Provider to refund or return any such funds.
• Credit Card Transactions and Chargebacks . If for any reason, any Charter Provider is unable to provide the Charter, or any part thereof, for which you have contracted, your remedy lies against the Charter Provider, and not against Broker. However, Broker will use reasonable efforts to assist you and Charter Provider in reaching a resolution to a dispute between you and the Charter Provider. In the event that your payment has already been transferred from Broker to Charter Provider or to an escrow account, you agree that you will not seek a chargeback against Broker for such amounts transferred. You further agree to indemnify and hold Broker harmless from and against any liability, loss, damage or expense (including without limitation, reasonable attorneys’ fees) that Broker may incur in connection with chargebacks against Broker or under the Charter Agreement and your performance thereunder. If Broker incurs any costs, including but not limited to attorneys’ fees, to recover any payments charged back by your credit card company or other financial institution, you agree that you will be liable for these costs. If your payment is declined for any reason, you agree to settle any amounts owed to Broker via money order, cashier’s check, personal check or bank/ACH transfer immediately.
• Broker Responsibility . Broker makes arrangements with the Charter Provider. Broker additionally makes additional arrangements with other suppliers for the various components and other services that comprise your Charter (“Charter Suppliers”). Broker is not an agent of these Charter Providers or the Charter Suppliers (and the Charter Providers and Charter Suppliers are not agents of Broker). Broker expressly disclaims any liability for the actions or omissions of the Charter Provider and the Charter Suppliers. The Charter Providers and the Charter Suppliers reserve the right to refuse service to you at their sole discretion. Broker assumes no liability for the acts of the Charter Provider or the Charter Suppliers in refusing service. Broker is not responsible for schedule changes and does not offer compensation for those changes. Broker is not responsible under any circumstances for any injury or damages you may suffer, in connection with sea, air or ground transportation, hotel accommodations, or other travel or excursion services arranged by Broker.

  You understand Broker is not the source or supplier of the Charter or other travel services you requested and acts solely as a broker for the Charter Provider and the Charter Suppliers. You agree that the Charter Provider and Charter Suppliers whose names appear in the information supplied to you are those who are solely responsible for providing the Charter you purchase. You consent to and request the use of the Charter Provider and the Charter Suppliers and agree to not hold Broker responsible should any of them: (i) fail to provide the Charter or travel services you purchased, whether or not such services are listed in the Charter Agreement or otherwise, (ii) fail to comply with any applicable law, or (iii) engage in any negligent act or omission that causes you any sort of injury, damage, delay or inconvenience.

By using Broker’s services, you waive and release any claim against Broker, its affiliated and subsidiary companies, and their respective officers, directors, employees, contractors, and agents, arising out of or in connection with any loss of or damage to property or injury to any person caused by reason of (i) any defect, negligence, or other wrongful act or omission, or any failure of performance of any kind, by any Charter Provider, Charter Suppliers, or any other provider of sea, airline, hotel, ground transportation or any other travel provider connected to or otherwise associated with the Charter, (ii) any claim for inconvenience, loss of enjoyment, mental distress or other similar claim, (iii) any delayed departure, missed connection, substitute accommodation, termination of service or change in fares or rates, and (iv) overbooking, flight or other travel cancellation, lost or misconnected personal property, or any claim arising out of the air transportation portion of your travel, and (v) or any other claim arising out of or otherwise related to the Charter Agreement or services provided by the Charter Provider and the Charter Suppliers.

Excepting only liability that directly arises from the gross negligence or willful misconduct of Broker, you will not hold Broker responsible for any injury, damage or loss you may suffer while on a Charter, whether incurred on the Charter or in connection with any other rental, purchase, excursion or activity, regardless of the relationship of any of the foregoing with the Charter Provider or the Charter Suppliers.

• Your Responsibility . By booking a Charter with Broker, you agree to defend and indemnify and hold harmless Broker, Charter Provider, Charter Suppliers, and each of their respective officers, directors, employees and agents, from and against any and all claims, causes of action, demands, recoveries, losses, damages, fines, penalties or other costs or expenses of any kind or nature, including but not limited to reasonable legal fees, arising out of or in connection with: (i) your breach of these Terms or the documents referenced herein; (ii) your violation of any law or rights of a third party; or (iii) your use of the Broker website.

You will review your Charter Agreement and travel documents for accuracy upon receipt. You understand that it is your responsibility to review the accuracy of all details in the Charter Reservation provided to you, and that you may contact Broker if you have any questions.

You assume full and complete responsibility for checking and verifying any and all passport, visa, vaccination, or other entry requirements of your destination(s), and all conditions regarding health, safety, security, political stability, and labor or civil unrest at such destination(s).

You understand that Broker recommends purchasing travel insurance to cover certain risks inherent in travel such as supplier bankruptcy and the inability to travel due to a medical or personal emergency.

• No Warranties . All Charters, products, services, advice and information is provided on an “as is” and “as available” basis without warranties of any kind, either expressed or implied to the fullest extent permitted under the law, including but not limited to, warranties of title or implied warranties of merchantability, satisfactory quality or fitness for a particular purpose. Without limiting the above, no warranty or guarantee is made (i) regarding the acceptance of any reservation request or Charter Reservation; (ii) regarding the availability of Charters, or any other product and/or services through Broker; (iii) that the use of Broker’s website will be error-free; or (iv) regarding the completeness, accuracy, reliability or quality of any information, content, data, service, advice or merchandise provided by Broker or through Broker’s website.

Broker has no special knowledge regarding the Charter Provider’s or Charter Supplier’s financial condition, unsafe conditions, health hazards, weather hazards, or climate extremes at locations to which you may travel during or otherwise in connection with your Charter.

• Limitation on Liability . In no event shall Broker, Charter Provider, Charter Suppliers, and/or their respective affiliates, or any employees, agents, officers, directors, members or managers of any of the foregoing (“Broker and Charter Releasees”), be liable for any direct, indirect, punitive, incidental, special or consequential damages arising out of, or in any way connected with, your access to, display of or use the Broker’s website, the Charter or services provided to you in connection with the Charter (including, but not limited to, your reliance upon opinions of the Broker), whether based on a theory of negligence, contract, tort, strict liability, consumer protection statutes, or otherwise, and even if Broker and/or any other of the Broker and Charter Releasees have been advised of the possibility of such damages.

If, despite the limitation above, Broker or the Broker and Charter Releasees are found liable for any loss or damage which arises out of or in any way connected with any of the occurrences described above, then Broker, Charter Provider, Charter Supplier and the Broker and Charter Releasees will in no event exceed, in the aggregate, the greater of (a) the Broker Fee, and (b) One-Hundred Dollars (US $100.00).

The foregoing limitation of liability reflects the allocation of risk between the parties. The limitations specified in this section will survive and apply even if any limited remedy specified in these Terms is found to have failed of its essential purpose. The limitations of liability provided in these Terms inure to the benefit of Broker and/or its providers.

The foregoing does not affect any liability which cannot be excluded or limited under applicable law.

• Limitation on Time to File Claims . ANY CAUSE OF ACTION OR CLAIM YOU MAY HAVE ARISING OUT OF RELATING TO BROKER’S SERVICES OR THE WEBSITE MUST BE COMMENCED WITHIN ONE (1) YEAR AFTER THE CAUSE OF ACTION ACCRUES, OTHERWISE, SUCH CAUSE OF ACTION OR CLAIM IS PERMANENTLY BARRED.
• Waiver . No waiver by Broker of any term or condition set forth in these Terms shall be deemed a further or continuing waiver of such term or condition or a waiver of any other term or condition, and any failure of the Broker to assert a right or provision under these Terms shall not constitute a waiver of such right or provision.
• Severability . If any provision of these Terms is held by a court or other tribunal of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, illegal or unenforceable for any reason, such provision shall be eliminated or limited to the minimum extent such that the remaining provisions of the Terms will continue in full force and effect.
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Bitter End Rising

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: September 14, 2021

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The Legendary Bitter End Resort Will Reopen With the First Overwater Suites in the British Virgin Islands

The "floating" bungalows will be a key feature of the newly revamped resort, which was completely destroyed by hurricane irma in 2017., rachel cormack.

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Bitter End Yacht Club is ready for a sweet new beginning.

After being completely obliterated by Hurricane Irma back in 2017, the waterfront resort in the British Virgin Islands is set to reopen this winter with a very exciting new feature: the first and only overwater bungalows in the territory.

Located on Virgin Gorda, Bitter End is the final island outpost before the Caribbean Sea meets the open Atlantic Ocean. This secluded spot is known as the “end of the line”, hence the moniker. Set across 64 acres, the privately-owned retreat was opened by the Hokin family in 1973 and quickly became a popular destination for seafarers. After Irma hit, the property closed for four years, during which time the Hokins treated it to a full makeover.

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The Marina Lofts.  Bitter End Yacht Club

To that end, Bitter End 2.0, as the Hokin family likes to call it, has been outfitted with breathtaking new Marina Lofts. Cantilevered over the ocean, the handmade timber bungalows were actually inspired by the vintage sail lofts where sails used to be made.

Set across two levels, the handmade timber bungalows are ripe for relaxation. The first floor sports a spacious lounge and bathroom, while the second floor is home to a master suite with a king-sized bed. There is also a private terrace on both floors that offers picture-perfect views, plus a hammock right by the water’s edge. There are currently only two bungalows complete and available for bookings in December, but 10 more bungalows are scheduled to be ready in the near future.

In addition to the luxe accommodation, there’s a new waterfront plaza overlooking the North Sound. It will offer several distinct dining options, including a new twist on the clubhouse and a waterfront bar, as well as a watersports center with a new fleet of water toys and a boutique for holiday shopping.

“We have taken everything that we’ve learned over five decades and incorporated it into the redesign to purposefully pay homage to our history,” Richard Hokin, patriarch of the family, said in a statement. “At the same time, we are elevating Bitter End’s amenities and hospitality offerings to create a world-class experience that will delight travelers for generations to come.”

The Quarterdeck Marina.  Bitter End Yacht Club

To cater to the territory’s robust charter and private yachting industries, the resort will also feature more than 70 mooring balls and 25 marina slips. This means sailors can purchase a mooring or dock space and sleep onboard their vessels. There will also be a new two-story marina that comes complete with an open-air lounge and wraparound terrace.

“While a lot has changed, we still are unmistakably Bitter End.”

The resort is set to reopen later this month and you can make make a reservation  here .

Check out more photos below:

The beach.  Bitter End Yacht Club

Bitter End Yacht Club

The Clubhouse Restaurant.  Bitter End Yacht Club

The Reeftique Boutique.  Bitter End Yacht Club

Rachel Cormack is a digital editor at Robb Report. She cut her teeth writing for HuffPost, Concrete Playground, and several other online publications in Australia, before moving to New York at the…

Read More On:

• British Virgin Islands
• Overwater Bungalows

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Bitter End Yacht Club

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BITTER END YACHT CLUB - Updated 2024 Resort Reviews (Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands)

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Bitter End Yacht Club

North Sound, Virgin Gorda

• Full Review
• On several gorgeous, white-sand beaches with plenty of water sports
• All rooms have balconies where guests can enjoy the breezes and stunning views
• Spa, fitness center, and pool
• Restaurants are reasonably priced with solid (if not gourmet) meals
• Outdoor movie theater plays two movies every night (the first always has a G rating)
• Small kids' club
• Free snacks and drinks in the rooms
• Strong Wi-Fi connection at the clubhouse and the bar
• Some rooms are in need of renovations
• Pool is small
• Can be a steep walk to some rooms
• Not all rooms have air-conditioning (although with the excellent breezes, few guests use it)

Bottom Line

This property was tragically impacted by Hurricane Irma and Hurricane Maria in September 2017 and is currently closed for repairs. Bitter End hopes to reopen in late 2018. The Bitter End Yacht Club, snuggled into a steep hill on the scenic North Sound, is a relaxed, family-friendly resort. The tech-free rooms (no TVs or Wi-Fi here) feature stunning views from the balconies, and the sliding doors allows breezes to sweep through; some rooms do not have air-conditioning but most guests find they don't miss it. While some rooms feel up-to-date (with bright comforters, sleek bathrooms, and comfy lounge chairs), others have dated furniture and are in need of renovations. The white-sand beaches at the hotel are narrow, but they are still the highlight here, offering plenty of water sports and relatively calm waters. The pool, however, is a disappointment: It is small and thus relatively unused. Families will likely enjoy the calm waters, the small kids' club, and the outdoor movie theater, while couples can enjoy the gorgeous views and the solid restaurant options. 

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Beachfront Cottage

North Sound King

North Sound Suite

North Sound Two Queens

Restaurants and Bars

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On a small white-sand beach on virgin gorda.

The Bitter End Yacht Club is tucked into the North Sound of Virgin Gorda, the British Virgin Islands' second largest island. Although Virgin Gorda does have a small airport (mostly used by chartered planes), the hotel is only accessible by boat.

Most guests fly into Beef Island Airport (adjacent to Tortola) and take the North Sound Express ferry straight to BEYC, which takes about 45 minutes. Those who fly into the Virgin Gorda Airport can take a short taxi ride (about $30 including tip) from Spanish Town (a tiny town with a grocery store and a restaurant) to Gun Creek jetty, from which the boat ride only takes about 15 minutes.

From the Bitter End, guests can nearly see mogul Richard Branson's private island, Necker Island, which is about a 15-minute boat ride away. The beaches at the hotel are small, but offer beautiful views of the surrounding archipelago, and the waters are host to the third largest Caribbean mega-yacht party, which takes place during the holidays every year.

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Airport transportation, babysitting services, balcony / terrace / patio, business center, kids allowed, meeting / conference rooms, poolside drink service, rental car service desk onsite, room service, separate bedroom / living room space, supervised kids activities, swim-up bar.

Disclaimer: This content was accurate at the time the hotel was reviewed. Please check our partner sites when booking to verify that details are still correct.

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British Virgin Islands’ Bitter End Yacht Club Debuts New Villas

The legendary Bitter End Yacht Club has reopened after a complete rebuild from damage sustained in 2017’s Hurricane Irma, including the debut of the first of a planned string of waterfront villas.

Designed to resemble traditional sailmakers’ lofts, the two-story wooden villas are perched close to the edge of the British Virgin Island’s North Sound, with ladders allowing guests to dip into the water directly from their front deck.

If not exactly “overwater”, the villas fit nicely with the overall nautical vibe at the resort. The open-fronted accommodations have bedrooms upstairs and first-level living rooms flowing onto decks slung with hammocks, permitting guests a front-row seat for watching the sailboats and yachts cruising in and out of the 27-slip marina and a 72-ball mooring field.

Two of a planned 11 Marina Lofts have been completed and began welcoming guests in February 2022, with several others under construction.

Like the resort’s recently-opened Quarterdeck clubhouse and Buoy Room restaurant, the villas are constructed from a variety of sturdy hardwoods with foundations on ground raised several feet above the previous waterline.

Marina Loft guests can enjoy fine dining at the Buoy Room, casual fare at the Cafe Salacia coffee shop, and drinks at the boat-shaped Reef Sampler bar.

The resort village also includes a well-stocked store and a soon-to-come boutique shop. Sailing and other on-water activities are organized by the on-site watersports center and Sunchaser Scuba.

Located on the island of Virgin Gorda since 1969, the Bitter End Yacht Club was completely destroyed in Hurricane Irma.

After four years of reconstruction, the marina and other facilities began reopening in December 2020. Future plans include the addition of up to 40 bungalows on the 65-acre property.

For more, visit the Bitter End Yacht Club .

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Bitter End’s diverse collection of restaurants and our sea-to-table culinary philosophy attract visitors from all over the Caribbean. We’re also home to the North Sound’s oldest watering hole and a sunken ship which has turned into the coolest beach bar in the Caribbean. 

CURATED CARIBBEAN

No matter if the setting is sunken-boat beach bar, clubhouse casual or seaside fine-dining, Bitter End’s culinary philosophy remains the same: to showcase the local bounty’s freshest flavors and provide you with a true taste of the Caribbean.

THE CLUBHOUSE

Established 1969. A true sailor’s haunt, the original Clubhouse was built by Bitter End’s first proprietor. Today, The Clubhouse is still beloved in the Caribbean as the place to enjoy a great meal and even better company.

THE BUOY ROOM

Built for sailors, by sailors. A quintessential après sail watering hole, The Buoy Room is the place you will head straight from the docks to relive the day’s adventures.

REEF SAMPLER

The ultimate union of our favorite things: boats, beaches, and bars. Originally the vessel that helped build Bitter End back in the ’70s, the Reef Sampler has been raised from the seabed following Hurricane Irma for its second act as local watering hole and village focal point.

PRIVATE DINING

Beachside, dockside or even afloat–a private dinner at Bitter End is in one word, magical. Our creative team of chefs and planners will work with you to tailor a menu and wine pairings to your preferred tastes, and our manager will ensure that the details of your event are exceptional. Drop us a line to get started.

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Bitter End Yacht Club Construction Ongoing – Marina and Restaurant to Open in Late 2019!

April 7th, 2019

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For those who know and love the Bitter End Yacht Club information about what is happening with the rebuild and when the resort be operational has been limited. Here are six things we know or have heard to date:

1 – Goal of the Rebuild: According to the resort’s blog, the owners call the reconstruction “BEYC 2.0.” They’re working with Simplemente Madera, an architecture firm based in Nicaragua. The goal is to restore the Bitter End Yacht Club’s environmentally complementary design and ethos. In the blog it stated, “We are working with our architect, Matthew Falkiner of Simplemente Madera, to make sure “BEYC 2.0” will reflect its 50-year legacy of laid back fun and that it will personify the welcoming and friendly energy, vibe, spirit and respect for the natural environment that always has been Bitter End’s lifeblood.” In addition, Richard Hokin, co-owner of the resort stated, “It is important to us that North Sound continues to be the visually inviting destination it has been for generations.”

2 – Projected Opening Date: In July 2018 BEYC reported, “We’re focused on having our mooring field, marina and harbor-front operations, including food , beverage and retail, in full swing by spring, 2019. By then, we will be on our way to building out the rest of Bitter End’s Village center as well as planning and mobilizing for follow-up phases across our 64 acres and along our mile of shoreline.” A December 2018 article in Scuttlebutt Sailing News pushed back the opening date to Summer 2019 as they stated, “The short answer is the marina, restaurant, bar, and waterfront operations will be ready by Spring/Summer 2019, with overnight rooms coming online the following year.”

3 – Revised Opening Date: From all accounts it looks like the opening of the marina and restaurant have been further delayed until late 2019. According to a February 2019 article in the BVI News, Premier Dr. D. Orlando Smith, while reporting on resorts that are scheduled to reopen in the BVI, stated that the the Virgin Gorda-based Bitter End Resort is currently rebuilding and while the villas will take time to be restored, the marina, restaurant and docks will be opened later this year [2019].

4 – The Cleanup: According to the resort’s blog, Phase 2 of the cleanup project included more than 60 workers to salvage reusable material, dismantle structure, and clearremaining debris. The owners said that there was more than 3,000 tons of debris spread across their 64 acres, as well as a mile of waterfront. Barges were brought in to carry it all away.

5 – Preparing for Ground Breaking: Signs of significant progress in the clearing of BEYC were confirmed recently as evidenced by the photos above taken in late March, 2019. In addition, in a March 29, 2019 post on their Facebook page BEYC reported, “These days, we’re not spending much time “messing about in boats.” Instead, we’re messing about in heavy equipment…grading things out and getting ready for ground breaking.”

6 – The Good News: In case you forgot what BEYC looked like immediately after Irma, we found the photo below on their Facebook page. The resort has certainly come along way since then.

BVI Traveller will continue to keep you updated as more news becomes available, but for now this is all great news for the many fans of the Bitter End Yacht Club and the North Sound!

Top Photos: Courtesy of John Fischetti Bottom Photo: Courtesy BEYC via Facebook

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