We venture to the largest of the private islands in the British Virgin Islands archipelago, Peter Island. Discover a haven of tranquility that promises rugged beauty, untamed landscapes, and luxury ashore. Join us as we embark on a sailing journey to uncover the raw allure of Peter Island, where seclusion and adventure await around every corner.
Like much of the Caribbean, Peter Island was inhabited by indigenous peoples, including the Arawak and Carib tribes. They lived there for centuries before the arrival of Europeans. In the 17th century, the island was named after Pieter Adriensen, a Dutch settler who’s brother was Abraham Adriensen, Patron of Tortola under the Dutch West India Company. At which time colonial agriculture flourished, utilizing enslaved labor for crops like sugar cane and cotton. Peter Island was likely a hotspot for pirate activity due to its secluded geography during the heydays of piracy. Namesakes like Deadman's Bay and Dead Chest Island pay homage to a pirate legacy.
In modern times, the island has shifted to tourism. The main attraction for several decades on Peter Island was the luxurious Peter Island Resort. This exclusive resort offered lavish accommodations, gourmet dining, spa facilities, and various recreational activities such as snorkeling, diving, sailing, hiking, and more. The 2017 hurricanes demolished the exquisite destination which is still under construction with a new opening date of October 2024.
Many yacht charterers overlook Peter Island because of limited amenities. There is a still a small restaurant offering lunch and sporadic dinners for those looking to venture ashore at Great Harbor, but one of the main draws of Peter Island is its exclusivity and privacy. Guests can enjoy a secluded and tranquil environment away from the hustle and bustle of so many of the busier anchorages.
With its rugged coastlines, hidden coves, and untouched wilderness, every corner of this island exudes a sense of untamed beauty. Countless bays beckon to Captain Joe, as he positions Kuma Too for the best scenery and stargazing in isolation. Keep your eyes pealed towards the shore, as it’s not uncommon for the local goat population to go for a sunset or sunrise stroll. The ongoing construction of the resort restricts land access to the high-water mark shoreside, so this is not currently a hiking destination.
Beneath the surface of the sea, Peter Island reveals a world of wonder and beauty that is as captivating as it is exhilarating. From vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life to underwater caves and shipwrecks waiting to be explored, the island's pristine waters offer endless opportunities for adventure. During certain phases of the lunar cycle, you may even be fortunate enough to witness the bioluminescence putting on a glowing show. Whether you're an experienced diver or a novice snorkeler, the crystal-clear waters of Peter Island provide a mesmerizing glimpse into a world rarely seen by land dwellers.
The original infamous Willy T, floating restaurant/bar, washed ashore during Hurricane Irma in 2017, so a local non-profit, Beyond the Reef, transformed the wreck into a pirate themed dive site. The Willy T now sits in 65-feet of water just off Key Bay.
The large protected bays of Peter Island provide the perfect setting for those adventure enthusiasts wanting to experience Kuma Too’s water toys. High-speed Tubing and kneeboarding or the slower paced subwing and kayaks are all waiting to give you a thrill you!
After a day of adrenaline-fueled adventure, there's no better way to unwind than by immersing yourself in the island's natural beauty. Whether you're lounging in the bow hammock, sipping cocktails in the water hammocks, or indulging with a relaxing book in the bean bags, Peter Island’s quiet anchorages offer the perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life. Soak in the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea as you savor a delicious meal prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, or simply bask in the warmth of the tropical sun as you drift off into a state of blissful relaxation.
Peter Island is a paradise for seafarers seeking adventure and relaxation alike. This secluded island offers a taste of paradise that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
To learn about charters on board Kuma Too, visit www.SailingKumaToo.com.
Until next time, Happy Sailing!
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