We just returned from a charter (7/30-8/7) through Dream Yacht on a Lagoon 46 (Aren't We Lucky) and thought I would post a few observations. It was a great trip and we were pleasantly surprised for several reasons.

Weather was very comfortable. Good sailing conditions - brisk wind (15-25) all week with moderate swells (4.5-5.5 ft). Very little rain, althought islands need it.

All restaurants/bars were open, except Pirates Bight (they are redoing restrooms and adding showers). We did not go to Anegada.

Saba Rock and Bitterend had good crowds, Leverick was exceptionally quiet.

Sargassum was a non-issue. It was certainly visible while sailing or on some lee shores, but never an issue at anchorages in terms of smell or clogging the intakes.

There definitely was Sahara dust, but it was just a little hazy sky, depending upon the direction you were looking. Was hoping for one of those dramatic Sahara dust sunsets, but did not get one - still enjoyable though.

A reasonable amount of boats out sailing. Several kid's sailing camps. There appeared to be more captained boats vs. bareboats than I typically notice as well.

No issue getting a ball of course, but most anchorages had a reasonable crowd. White Bay (Jost) was packed. We were moored on the Ivan's side. A Moorings Power Cat lost an engine in front of Hendos and temporarily beached. Several captains with powerful dinghy's helped steer it out of the anchorage, but was very dicey.

We had a great experience with Dream Yacht. The boat was newer and in excellent condition - no issues. All of the folks at the base were very helpful and Teka who checked us out was thorough and delightful. The only complaint was having to head up to Spanish Town to refuel the morning we returned - they said that is the closest fuel dock and the only way to return the boat full without a penalty. Trellis Bay is too shallow to fuel there. Dream Yacht will be moving from Scrub to Hodges Creek in the near future.

My big takeaway was that the BVI were still busy, beautiful, and fun in early August and we would visit again that late in the season (understanding there is a a higher risk of storms). I do think the locals were pleased with the crowds as well. But many are also looking forward to some deserved vacation time.