Late January vs Late April/early May

Any thoughts on big wins or losses for a week in BVI during either late January or Late April-early May?

We are just starting to plan out a possible trip for next year. We've done 3 sailing trips and this would be our first on a power cat - looking at a Moorings 393 for 2 couples.

Thanks!

The chances of big winds and bigger waves is much greater in January. That can defeat the purpose and speed flexubility of a power cat. By late April many of the large crewed yachts will be on the move someplace else before the storm season. Anytime before June 1st the weather should be favorable. After June 1ish it could be great or rained out by sudden tropical waves. The smart money is gone from the BVI before June 1.

My wife and I have chartered four times in late April/early May. I think that it is less expensive, less crowded, better weather, better seas, and warmer water at that time. Everything is till open so you won't miss out.

I haven't been in April, but have been in January and May. Temps aren't vastly different, but I like the slightly warmer temps and water you get in May.

You will have over 1 1/2 more hours of daylight on May 1st compared to January <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Thumbsup.gif" alt="" />

We love both January and April. Late April-early May there is a pretty consistent rainy period. January we usually see some big winds. This year we stuck around St. John. The year before we tried to head to North Sound from St. Thomas, but we were getting hammered by wind and swell and bailed out for Jost.

Cheers, RickG

Definitely April/May IMHO. Probably shouldn't make public knowledge that this is a great time to visit. Cheaper, less people/boats, warmer waters. In 15 years we have had one solid, rainy week in May, but have also experienced bad weather any time from November to March too. "You pay your money (less in April/May) and you make your choice". Any time is good though.....