Tortola & The BVI, A Port of Call

The British Virgin Islands with St. John USVI in the distance

The British Virgin Islands (BVI) has several significant historical periods, beginning with the Pre-Columbian settlements of the Arawak people, who were the first known inhabitants of a number of the Caribbean islands. Christopher Columbus was the first European to reach the islands in 1493, naming them “Las Once Mil Virgines” or “The Eleven Thousand Virgins”.

The islands came under British control in 1672 during the Third Anglo-Dutch War, solidifying British influence that has persisted over the centuries. The BVI was part of the Leeward Islands colony until its defederation in 1956, and by 1960, it became a crown colony, reflecting a shift in governance and autonomy for the islands.

Throughout their history, the BVI has experienced various economic and social changes, influenced by colonialism and trade, particularly in sugar and later tourism, which remains a vital part of their economy.

Where Your Ship Docks

Road Town on Tortola, the capital of the British Virgin Islands is the location of the BVI cruise pier and offers a variety of attractions and activities for day visitors. Among the top sights are the J.R. O’Neal Botanical Gardens, which provide a serene retreat with diverse flora, and the Virgin Islands Folk Museum, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the region. The picturesque harbor is also a highlight, featuring numerous boats and serving as a hub for island visitors. Public transportation in Road Town and Tortola offers a variety of options for residents and visitors alike. In Road Town, you can find free electric carts providing rides, which are a cost-effective alternative to traditional taxis, although the taxi lobby tends to limit information about these options. Additionally, there are budget-friendly buses that operate throughout Tortola, making travel accessible for everyone.

Wheelchair Accessibility
Disembarking – This port has a developed cruise ship pier but the ease of disembarking varies by the individual ships gangway designs. The Road Town pier disembarks right into downtown. For passengers using wheelchairs there can be a moderate ramp incline to deal with with moderate issues with curbs and crosswalks.

Transportation

Traditional taxi services are readily available, particularly on larger islands like Tortola and Virgin Gorda. It is recommended to pre-book a taxi for your return trip to avoid issues, especially if you are taking a ferry.

Public transportation in Road Town and Tortola offers a variety of options for residents and visitors. In Road Town, there are actually free electric carts providing rides, which are an alternative to traditional taxis. Additionally, there are budget-friendly buses that operate throughout Tortola, making travel accessible for everyone.

The public transportation system on Tortola includes a scheduled bus service with specific pick-up times. Taxis and multi-passenger safari buses are also readily available with a standard fare to Beef Island airport from Road Town set at approximately $15 for up to three passengers. Furthermore, ferry services like Sensation Ferries connect various island locations, along with inter-island travel.

Currency

Because of its close proximity the the U.S. Virgin Islands and their influence the BVI use the U.S. Dollar as their official currency. All major credit cards are usually welcome and there are convenient ATMs.

Tipping
Tipping in the British Virgin Islands is customary for good service, with a standard range of 15-20% at restaurants and for taxis, but you should check the bill first as some establishments automatically include a 10-15% service charge. For services not covered by a mandatory charge, a 15-20% tip is a common courtesy for hotel staff, tour guides, and crew on private charters.

What To See and Do

Tortola itself, the largest island in the British Virgin Islands, is celebrated for its stunning natural beauty and diverse attractions. One of the most popular destinations is Cane Garden Bay, known for its picturesque beach and exciting atmosphere. Another highlight is Smuggler’s Cove, which offers a more secluded beach experience, ideal for sun bathing and swimming.

For those interested in hiking, Sage Mountain National Park provides trails that lead to the island’s highest point, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Additionally, visitors can explore Road Town, the capital, which features local shops and restaurants that showcase the island’s culture and cuisine.

Downtown Road Town

For those interested in outdoor experiences, hiking at Sage Mountain National Park is highly recommended, along with relaxing at nearby Cane Garden Bay Beach.

Shopping enthusiasts can explore Main Street, known for its local crafts and shops, while Tortola Pier Park offers a vibrant atmosphere for dining and shopping. Overall, Road Town combines natural beauty with cultural experiences, making it a charming destination for travelers.

A unique attraction is the Callwood Rum Distillery, a historic site where visitors can learn about rum production and sample local spirits. For adventure seekers, sailing around the island or taking part in a number of available tours can provide an enjoyable way to explore Tortola’s scenic coastline and marine life.

In summary, Tortola offers a wide range of attractions from beautiful beaches and hiking trails to cultural experiences centered around local rum production, making it a fantastic destination for various interests.

Going to The Baths

One of the most popular destinations in the BVI is a boulder covered beach on the island of Virgin Gorda only a short ferry ride from Road Town…

The Baths, Virgin Gorda BVI

A one-way ferry from Tortola to Virgin Gorda costs about $20, and a round-trip is approximately $35, but prices vary slightly depending on the company, and some may offer discounts for children or seniors. The trip typically takes around 30 to 41 minutes. Visit the website HERE.
One-way ticket: Around $20
Round-trip ticket: Approximately $30–$40
Travel time: About 30–41 minutes
Discounts: Some companies may offer discounts for children or seniors

One of the more popular options is Speedy’s Ferry:

From Road Town, Tortola by ferry to Virgin Gorda, go to Waterfront drive in Road Town. The ferry dock is located about a 6 minute walk from Tortola Pier Park near the cruise pier.

If you arrive by cruise ship, the cruise pier is about a 5 – 7 minute walk away from the ferry terminal. Speedy’s ferry ticket counter is very easy to find once you are at the ferry terminal, counter No. 2.

There is NO NEED FOR RESERVATIONS, you just need to arrive at the office at the ferry terminal 15 minutes before departure time, so that you can pay for the ferry and get checked in to board the ferry.

Our colorful Speedy’s taxi buses will be waiting for you at the ferry terminal in Virgin Gorda to pick you up and drive you to The Baths. They will be waiting for you to drive you back to the ferry terminal at the scheduled hour. Our ferry will be waiting for you to take you back to your cruise ship!

Once there, you have to pay $3 cash to enter The Baths. This fee is to help with the maintenance of the National Parks of the BVI.

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