Help Those Affected By Hurricane Irma

Our thoughts go out to all our friends in the Caribbean affected by Hurricane Irma. The British Virgin Islands are very close to our hearts. Seven years ago, we handpicked these beautiful islands as a TYW destination. This was not only because of the BVI’s stunning landscapes but - and just as important - because of its people.

Always smiling, they have continued to welcome us with open arms for the past seven years.
Hurricane Irma, which struck the islands on 06/09/2017, is one the strongest to have ever been recorded on the Atlantic. It has caused an incredible amount of damage. Many people have lost their homes. Although Hurricane Irma has passed, people are now preparing for the impending threat of a second onslaught - Hurricane Jose. It is unclear how severe Hurricane Jose will be and how much additional damage it will cause but one thing is certain: The aftermath of the hurricanes will take years to recover from.

After taking such great care of us over the last seven years, it is time for The Yacht Week community to give back. Please join us in helping these brave families keep safe at such a difficult time.

All funds raised (after transaction fees) will go directly to the UK registered charity The Acts of Kindness Collective (No. 1164796) and will be used solely for relief efforts in the BVIs. The AOKC is a charity with strong experience in disaster relief and with whom TYW are actively collaborating with to ensure donations are distributed most efficiently. They will allocate funds towards relief efforts on the ground, targeting affected areas in the BVIs and supporting local organisations who will best know how to help the community. Focus will be on helping children and families in need. More details to follow.

UPDATE 12/09/2017
After extensive research into relief organisations in the British Virgin Islands, we have decided to donate all funds to Virgin Unite set up by Sir Richard Branson who is personally affected, emotionally invested and connected in the local area.

Virgin Unite are working closely with local organisations to support efforts on the ground and provide assistance to families and communities affected. Virgin Unite’s overheads are covered by Sir Richard Branson and the Virgin Group, meaning that 100% of all donations received will go directly to helping support local BVI communities.

Our intermediary charity partner (The Acts of Kindness Collective) will transfer all funds at no cost directly to Virgin Unite in two separate instalments; the first being this Friday the 15/09/2017 and finally on the 22/09/2017.

Thank you for your generosity!