British Virgin Islands (Tortola) Cruise Guide

Tortola is a welcome relief from the bustling Caribbean Islands. It doesn't have as much glitz as many of the other islands. When cruise ships pull into port, the view is of lush, undulating landscape, colourful homes dotting its hillsides and crystal waters.

Beaches arch around bays and coves. Some are secluded, while others are lined with bars and watersport outfitters. Surfers prefer Apple Bay Beach. Restaurants and bars line the North Shore's funky Cane Garden Bay, which is said to be the inspiration for Jimmy Buffett's 'cheeseburger in paradise'.

Sightseeing

Tortola and the British Virgin Islands are about nature. After exploring Tortola, leave enough time to explore some of the nearby isles like Jost Van Dyke. Because of its many fun bars, the island just to the northwest is known as the 'party island'.

Virgin Gorda to the northeast is home to ‘the Baths,' a labyrinth of granite boulders oddly protruding from the shore and water. And legend has it that the caves around Norman Island (south of Tortola) were once filled with pirate treasure. In fact, Robert Louis Stevenson patterned his famous "Treasure Island" after it. The booty is gone and, except for a beach bar, so are the humans. The once cache-filled coves now teem with schools of fish.

Highlights

• Fort Burt
• JR O'Neal Botanic Gardens
• Old Government House Museum
• Peter Island
• Sage Mountain National Park
• Skyworld

Tourist Information

British Virgin Islands Tourist Board
2nd Floor, AKARA Building, Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Tel: +284 494 3134.
Website: www.bvitourism.com

Shopping

The main items on sale in Tortola are jams, artwork, spices, souvenir resortware or rum.  Most shops are located on Main Street in Road Town. Some specialise in foodstuffs, some in clothing and gifts. And for the cruise ship passengers, there are the mandatory jewellery shops.

Eating Out

Local seafood is the speciality and since fresh ingredients are not plentiful, chefs must depend on their creativity and what the boats deliver. Entrées usually have an American or Caribbean flair.

When To Go

The climate is subtropical with trade winds. Nights are cool and breezy. Hurricane season is late May to early November.

Transfer Times

Nearest Destination

Tortola.

Transfer Distance

6km (3.7 miles).

Transfer Time

15-20 minutes.

Key Facts

Region

British Virgin Islands

Time Zone

GMT - 4.

Currency

US Dollar (US$) = 100 cents.

Language

English.

Location

Between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico.

Population

24,004 (all the British Virgin Islands).



Government

Overseas territory of the UK, with internal self-government.

Religion

86% Protestant, 10% Roman Catholic, 4% other.

Social Conventions

The British Virgin Islands are quite informal and the pace of life quite easygoing. Shaking hands is the customary form of greeting. Dress is casual but beachwear should be confined to the beach or poolside.

Tipping
: If service is added to restaurant tab, an additional 5% is customary, otherwise leave 15%. Cabdrivers are not usually tipped, but bellmen get $1 per bag and maids $2 per night.
Need some holiday inspiration?
Tired of the same holiday destination?
Fresh ideas are just one click away...
Sign up for our newsletter
Be the first to hear about the coolest destinations and the latest travel trends. Plus, competitions, holiday inspiration and amusing facts, delivered directly to your inbox. Sign up for our newsletter
Advertisement

Travel Deals

Advertising features
Travel Partners
Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Spot the holiday killer - Protect yourself from malaria. Before you travel, find out if your holiday destination is in a malaria zone.