The Spread:
The Bitter End Yacht Club, accessible only by boat, gets its name from the term old mariners, who thought the world was flat, used to refer to the last spit of land before the open ocean. Unsurprisingly, resort guests spend their days on the water in complimentary sailboats, Boston whalers, rowing shells, plus windsurfs and kayaks. Experts teach sailing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding. Out of the warm Caribbean waves, there are beaches for sunning and a pool for splashing.

Along with a 70-mooring and 25-slip marina, the property offers 87 rooms. To reach the beachfront "villas" (really suites), you must climb some stairs (difficult for families toting sleepy tots and strollers). These comfortable but not fancy rooms come with a sitting area plus a bedroom and a good-sized deck with a hammock, though no air-conditioning. The North Sound Suites have smaller decks but larger rooms, air-conditioning, and few or no steps. Bright fabrics and renovated bathrooms freshen the beach suites, but the North Sound rooms look a bit tired.

Note: While the resort's waterfront remains open year-round for boaters, the rooms are closed mid-August to mid-October.

Why Families Love It:
If you know how to sail, captain a Sunfish, Laser, or other craft to reach one of the BVI's many snorkel sites. Old salts can perfect techniques at classes, and never-evers literally learn the ropes as well as all those nifty nautical terms at sailing classes. Families can sign up for private sailing lessons.

During February break, Easter, Christmas, and Thanksgiving (not summer), Bitter End operates special kids' sailing camps for ages three to 12 from 9 a.m. to noon and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Along with learning basic sailing skills, kids go on treasure hunts, guided nature walks, and compete in beach Olympics. The kids' camp is part of the family package. Most guests book one of the Admiral's packages as these come with lodging, three meals daily, as well as snorkeling trips.

In addition, kids three and older paint coconuts, create beaded bracelets, and craft shell photo frames on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2 to 4 p.m. at the complimentary Arts and Crafts Center.

Special Events & Activities:
Split your vacation by staying on land and then at sea aboard one of the resort's skippered yachts. Be sure to show off your sailing skills by taking part in the Sunday regatta.