TravelTalkOnline Forums Travel and Vacation Forums British Virgin Islands North Swell

Looks like a very high north swell Tuesday of this week as FYI if you are down there...

Small swell today but big predictions for tomorrow with that big storm up north..that's creating huge travel problems from what I hear..friends had all flights cancelled and literally missed the boat

A north swell can make the water look inviting but turn it rough fast, especially on beaches that face north, so I would not plan on swimming or snorkeling there while it is running. If you still want beach time, the south-facing spots usually stay more manageable it helps to check the marine forecast each morning before heading out.

Currently sitting in Little Harbor on Jost in calm winds and rain. All local forecast and experienced locals are looking at 25 knot winds beginning late this evening and substantial (8’ plus) northerly swell. Active alerts advising keeping clear of north facing beaches and anchorages. Conditions should return to somewhat normal late Wednesday or early Thursday. Given the rush to protected anchorages, Boaty Ball has proven to be an excellent use of funds.

Totally unrelated to the weather, we have experienced several restaurants where they clearly show 18-20% service charge with recommends to additionally tip the waiter. In addition, several establishments created substantial grief when we requested separate checks. Clearly, customer service not topping out our ratings at these establishments.

The NWS provided the following marine weather information on 2/10/2026
The NWS provided the following::

“Hazardous marine and coastal conditions across all the local waters and most of the coastal areas, except for the southern coastal areas. There are several marine/coastal advisories due to seas up to 12 feet and breaking waves up to 15 ft, a Coastal Flood Advisory, a High Surf Advisory, a Rip Current Statement, and several Small Craft Advisory.

https://www.ndbc.noaa.gov/show_plot.php?station=41043&meas=wvht&uom=E&tz=GMT

Graphic showing recent and current Wave Heights at Atlantic buoy 41043

Wow, those are some major swells! Thanks for posting that.

A boat went aground at Sandy Ground, St. Martin - the swells evidently did a number and the boat went ashore.

I have been in the BVI all week. We had a brief 36 hour break in the North swell but other than that it’s been here all week compounded by winds literally clocking around from every compass point. Not fun. Leaving today but things return to normal weather patterns for the next week. Just my luck!