Virgin Voyages' guide to Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Find your inner peace in the heart of the British Virgin Islands.
TORTOLA
The Capital of Paradise
Nestled in the sea of tiny islands that make up the British Virgin Islands, Tortola, the archipelago’s largest and capital island, stands out for all the right reasons. An idyllic blend of ancient ruins, iridescent lagoons, lush mountains and white-sand beaches, this Caribbean utopia is perfect for sailors from all walks of life.
A mecca for outdoors enthusiasts, Tortola offers adventure at every turn. Zip-line through the treetops where you’ll be able to see the stunning views all the way to St. Croix, scuba dive the coral-ladened waters that surround the coast and explore the natural rainforests on four-wheelers or by foot. Tour the island unlike any other cruise experience you’ve had before – with the Tortola women in tourism, where you’ll not only see and learn about the local sights and culture, but learn about what it takes to be a successful woman in business on the island. Jump into the warm waters of one of Tortola’s countless lagoons or simply soak up the sun on a white-sand beach with a coconut full of locally-sourced rum.
With so many options of what to do, what to see and where to eat the biggest stressor you’ll experience in Tortola is how much time to dedicate to each incredible experience – (unless of course you’re scared of heights and opt to zipline).
With so many options of what to do, what to see and where to eat the biggest stressor you’ll experience in Tortola is how much time to dedicate to each incredible experience – (unless of course you’re scared of heights and opt to zipline).
North Shore Views & Seaside Landmarks
Head to Road Town (a “small town with a big heart”) making your way over its colorful streets first built in the 1700s. You’ll visit the island’s top viewpoints to get those incredible snaps at Great Mountain (whose name kind of says it all), Carrot Bay to sample the island's famous fish soup (a must-try), and free time on the shores of Pusser’s Landing. While it’s famous for its infamous Painkiller bevvie — take in the scenery, grab a cigar, or get in some retail therapy at the local boutiques.
Ultimate Virgin Gorda & The Baths
Hop into a ferry to go past the iridescent islets dotting the coast of Tortola. Upon arrival, lunch will be served at a local resort, and then a safari-style bus will transport you to The Baths. This striking formation of volcanic boulders offers multiple areas to discover, including hidden rock pools, shaded grottos, and a “cathedral room” whose magnificent chamber provides the perfect backdrop to get *the* shot. Make sure to waterproof your camera — it’s over a shallow, turquoise pool.
Snorkel Legendary Norman Island
Like the legendary pirates and sailors who came upon the coast centuries ago, hop into a boat and hit the waves over to Norman Island — the inspiration behind Robert Louis Stevenson’s book Treasure Island. Besides wild goats who roam the island freely, no inhabitants live here full-time, making the surrounding reef and inner caves the perfect place to explore with snorkel gear. Check out the vibrant coral and marine life while keeping your eyes peeled for rays, turtles, or even a lost doubloon.
An island named for true love
Tortola is named for the Spanish turtle dove.
Shore Excursions
Tortola by Sea & Land
Take in some real Castaway vibes on a boat ride passing some of the uninhabited islets that make the British Virgin Islands plural. See the legendary isles that once housed pirates and lost treasure and astounding coastal views of islands that live as one with the elements.
DISCOVER MORE SHORE THINGSExperience all that Tortola has to offer by diversifying your day with nature-inspired adventures and relaxing white-sand beaches. Learn what makes the center of the British Virgin Islands the magical destination that it’s become. Whether you choose to spend your time chatting with locals and perusing shops filled with handcrafted goods and spices or zip-lining and taking a dinghy to see the swimming holes and lagoons created by nature’s architects, volcanoes – the only way to not fall in love with all that Tortola has to offer is to stay on the ship.
