TIDES:
The tidal range throughout the Virgin Islands is about 12 inches, depending upon the time of year.  You will probably be unaware of any fluctuation. However, you cannot rely upon the rising tide to float you off the odd sandbar.  Currents in certain areas can reach 1-2 knots.

GROUND SWELLS:
During the winter months of November through April, any significant weather in the North Atlantic will produce heavy swells along the entire north coast of the Virgin Islands several days later.  These ground seas have little effect on vessels under sail, but can turn a normally tranquil anchorage into a pounding surf.  Most anchorages exposed to the north are prone to this phenomenon – called the North Swell, choose your anchorage accordingly.

WINDS:
Owing the northeast trade winds, the wind direction throughout the Virgin Islands is dominated by the movement of the Bermuda high.  During the winter months of November to January, the prevailing wind is from the northeast at 15-20 knots.  The fabled Christmas winds can produce 25-30 knots for several days at a time.  By February the winds start to move around to the east and by June they are blowing out of the southeast at 10-15 knots.

During September to October the trade winds are weakest, and the weather can be less settled.  Although these months are considered hurricane season. Hurricane Hugo was the first to hit in 50 odd years.  By November the high pressure system around Bermuda starts to stabilize and 15-20 knots breezes become the norm.

RAINFALL:
While late summer to fall is considered rainy season, rain squalls can come at any time of the year.  Be aware of approaching squalls by the watching the sky and clouds to windward.  If a dark squall is approaching, it probably has considerable wind velocity on the squall line, and the prudent skipper should shorten sail beforehand.

WINTER STORMS & HURRICANES :
When the islands do experience a tropical storm or depression, it is usually in the early development of the storm center, and the storms usually do not reach full intensity until they are north of the area.  Should a storm approach the islands, remember that they travel very slowly; consequently, with the communication systems used today, sailors can be assured of at least 48 hours warning.  Hurricane Season is June 1 – November 1 2005 any charters taken during hurricane season should have travel insurance coverage should the trip be interrupted due to a hurricane.