The British Virgin Islands, about 50 (mostly uninhabited) islands and cays, are one of the Caribbean's most popular destinations. Road Town, the capital city, is crammed with markets, boutiques and restaurants, and remains a favorite stop for experienced cruise ship passengers. Popular activities include sailing around the myriad islands, diving over wrecks, snorkelling, walking empty beaches, and watching the sunset. Steeped in the history of the British Navy, the islands are ringed by shipwrecks; the most famous of these - The RMS Rhone - is now a national marine park, and a favorite scuba diving point.
Tortola, about 16 sq km’s, is the largest of the islands, and Virgin Gorda, 13 sq km’s, ranks second. The islands scattered around them include Jost Van Dyke, Great Camanoe, Norman, Peter, Salt, Cooper, Ginger, Dead Chest, and Anegada.
Things to See & Do
* Snorkeling off Norman Isle
* The Baths at Virgin Gorda
* Diving around the HMS Rhone wreck
* Island hopping
Cruise Season – Jan - Dec
Currency – $US (USD)
Language – English
Land Area – 153 sq km
Population – 22,700
Electricity – 2 perpendicular flat pins USA style or with a round pin below
Time – GMT minus four hours
International Country Telephone Code – + 1 –
Port Location – Ships dock and anchor in Tortola. The pier can only hold 2 ships, however, so if more are in port, it will require tendering. Both pier and tender drop-off are located directly in Road Town, the capital of Tortola. Taxis are available, but not metered, so be sure to negotiate a price upfront. Some ships will also anchor off-shore for a few hours and tender passengers to the Baths in Virgin Gorda.
Transport Links – Just a 30 minute ferry ride from St. Thomas in the U.S.V.I., or a 30 minute plane ride from San Juan. There are many ferries which offer inter-island transport.
Taxis, rental cars and bikes are available for getting around the BVI’s.