Does your eastern Caribbean cruise include a port of call in one or more of the Virgin Islands? Are you planning a cruise day in St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix, Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, or Virgin Gorda but are unsure of how to spend your time? Cruise ports in the Virgin Islands are gateways to pristine beaches, historical sites, vibrant cultures, and spectacular landscapes. But with limited time in port, knowing how to make the most of your time ashore is challenging.
I’ve compiled this guide to the main cruise ports in the Virgin Islands. You’ll learn about each island’s unique charm and countless opportunities for exploration or relaxation. For each cruise destination, continue reading to learn about the best beaches, snorkeling spots, historic sites, and attractions in the Virgin Islands.
Are you ready to begin planning your cruise day in the Virgin Islands? If so, read on to uncover the top activities and hidden gems waiting for you in the Virgin Islands.
Introducing the Virgin Islands
The Virgin Islands are an archipelago in the eastern Caribbean Sea, part of the Lesser Antilles. The island group consists of over 100 islands, with the main ones being St. Thomas, St. Croix, St. John, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke. These ports are some of the most popular Eastern Caribbean cruise destinations.
The Caribbean paradise islands are teeming with lush landscapes, crystal-clear waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant cultures. From the lively, colorful streets of St. Thomas to the tranquil beaches of Virgin Gorda, each island offers unique experiences. Get ready to explore, relax, and create unforgettable memories in this tropical haven.
Where Are the Virgin Islands?
The Virgin Islands are located in the eastern Caribbean Sea, east of Puerto Rico. This stunning archipelago is divided into the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) and the British Virgin Islands (BVI). Each paradise island offers unique charm and beauty, making the archipelago a top destination for cruise travelers.
Greater Antilles and Lesser Antilles
The Virgin Islands are part of the Lesser Antilles—an island group of 24 small Caribbean islands extending from Puerto Rico to the coast of South America. Apart from the Virgin Islands, the Lesser Antilles also include the stunning ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao), which are also popular cruise destinations.
The Lesser Antilles are divided into three island groups:
- Windward Islands: This group includes Martinique, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, and Grenada. These tropical islands are famous for lush rainforests, volcanic peaks, and vibrant cultures.
- Leeward Islands: The group includes the Virgin Islands, Saint Martin, Anguilla, Saint Kitts, Montserrat, and Guadeloupe.
- Leeward Antilles: The southernmost islands in the Lesser Antilles make up the Leeward Antilles. This island group north of Venezuela includes Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao.
In contrast, the Greater Antilles include Puerto Rico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, and the Cayman Islands.
U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI)
The U.S. Virgin Islands consist of four main islands—St. Thomas, St. Croix, Water Island, and St. John. Many smaller islands and cays surround these islands. The capital is Charlotte Amalie, located on the island of St. Thomas. These islands are a territory of the United States and use the U.S. dollar as their currency.
British Virgin Islands (BVI)
The British Virgin Islands are a British Overseas Territory, and its capital is Road Town on the island of Tortola. This group of islands includes Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, and Anegada, along with many other smaller islands and cays. The U.S. dollar is the official currency used in the British Virgin Islands.
What’s the difference between USVI and BVI?
The main difference between the British Virgin Islands (BVI) and the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) is their governance. While the USVI is a territory of the United States, the BVI is a British Overseas Territory. This distinction affects legal systems, entry requirements, and cultural differences.
Entry requirements for the BVI and USVI:
- Arriving in the USVI: If arriving from U.S. locations, all you need to show is a driver’s license or government-issued photo I.D. If your cruise started outside the U.S. territory, you need a valid passport and possibly a visa.
- Arriving in the BVI: Everyone, including British Citizens, must show a valid passport. However, all cruise passengers are exempt from visa requirements if staying on the island for 24 hours or less.
The USVI tends to be more commercialized than the BVI. However, the islands have more similarities than differences. Here are a few notable ones:
- Both have pristine white-sand beaches
- Lush tropical vegetation covers large parts of the islands
- Drivers drive on the left
- African, European, and North American influences are evident everywhere
- The U.S. dollar is the official currency of both islands
- What to Expect at the Cruise Ports
The main cruise ports in the Virgin Islands are usually located near the center of town, allowing easy access to shopping areas, beaches, and historical landmarks. The largest cruise port in the U.S. Virgin Islands is Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas. In the British Virgin Islands, the busiest port is Road Town in Tortola, while Jost Van Dyke is a popular destination.
Map of Virgin Islands Cruise Ports
Discover the locations of cruise ports in the Virgin Islands with our comprehensive map. Easily navigate and plan your visits to key ports like St. Thomas, St. John, St. Croix, Tortola, and more.
Guide to U.S. Virgin Islands Cruise Ports
In the U.S. Virgin Islands, the main cruise ports are located on St. Thomas (Havensight and Crown Bay) and St. Croix (Frederiksted). The smaller islands of St. John (Cruz Bay) and Water Island (Philips Landing) have ports for ferries but not for cruise ships. Travel to these smaller islands is typically by ferry from St. Thomas.
St. Thomas Cruise Port Guide
Cruise passengers arrive at St. Thomas dock near Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The main cruise ports, Havensight Pier and Crown Bay Dock, are centrally located, allowing easy access to shopping areas, beaches, and historical landmarks. Both ports offer plentiful taxi services and tour operators at the terminal exits.
Arriving at Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Depending on your cruise line, you either dock at the Havensight Pier or Crown Bay Dock. Regardless of the berthing location, you are a short distance to downtown Charlotte Amalie. Also, taxi services or tour operators are plentiful at the terminal exits, offering shore excursions and transport.
Havensight Cruise Pier, St. Thomas
Havensight Cruise Pier in St. Thomas is one of the largest cruise ports in the U.S. Virgin Islands, with three main berths along a single pier. Upon disembarking the ship, you can visit the nearby Havensight Mall for an excellent shopping experience. Downtown Charlotte Amalie is a 30-minute walk from the Havensight Pier cruise terminal exit.
Cruise port of Charlotte Amalie (Crown Bay)
Crown Bay Dock, a key port in Charlotte Amalie, offers a range of amenities and services for cruise passengers. The port is a 7-minute taxi ride to downtown, making it easy to explore the vibrant capital. For beach enthusiasts, Lindbergh Bay Beach is a scenic 20-minute walk away, perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. The port is also conveniently located near Cyril E. King Airport, providing additional travel options. Crown Bay features duty-free shops, restaurants, and tour services, enhancing the overall experience for visitors.
Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas
Charlotte Amalie, the capital of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is known for its historic sites, cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and vibrant markets. It offers plenty of attractions for cruise passengers. The remarkable colonial town has Victorian architecture, lively markets, and a rich cultural heritage, providing plenty to see and do on a cruise day.
Snorkeling and scuba diving in St. Thomas
St. Thomas offers impressive snorkeling and scuba diving experiences in the Caribbean. The best snorkeling spots with crystal-clear waters, vibrant coral reefs, and colorful fish include Coki Beach, Sapphire Beach, and Lindquist Beach. If you want to swim with turtles, head for Brewer’s Bay Beach, rich in seagrass meadows.
Book an excursion to enjoy some of the best snorkeling or diving in the Caribbean. Popular half-day snorkeling excursions to the nearby cays include popular spots like Water Island, Buck Island, and Turtle Cove. These excursions typically include all necessary gear, snacks, drinks, experienced guides, and transportation.
Top beaches in St. Thomas
St. Thomas beaches are some of the most stunning white-sand shorelines in the Caribbean. Here are some of the best beaches on the island you can visit on a cruise day.
Magens Bay Beach
The beach at Magens Bay is renowned for its serene, crystal-clear waters and soft white sand. This mile-long beach is great for swimming, sunbathing, and picnicking. Lush green hills and coconut palms surround it, offering a vibrant atmosphere. The serene, shallow waters are ideal for swimming or snorkeling.
Magens Beach is regarded as one of St. Thomas’s most popular and picturesque spots.
Sapphire Beach
Sapphire Beach is famous for its stunning blue waters, ivory-white sand, and vibrant coral reefs. It’s one of the island’s best beaches for water sports, with kayaks, surfing, and snorkeling rentals available. With beautiful views of nearby islands and a lively atmosphere, Sapphire Beach is an excellent location for adventure and relaxation.
Secret Harbour Beach
Secret Harbour Beach offers a tranquil, more secluded beach experience. Its calm, clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and paddleboarding. It’s a picturesque setting, with swaying palm trees, hammocks, soft sand, a floating raft, and beachfront bars and restaurants. Secret Harbour Beach is perfect for a quieter, more intimate beach day.
Coki Beach
Coki Beach is a vibrant spot popular with cruise passengers. The east-end beach is known for its excellent snorkeling conditions, abundant marine life, and calm, crystal-clear waters. You’ll also find plenty of amenities at the beach, so you can make your beach break in the Caribbean memorable.
Coral World Marine Park is nearby, making it a favorite sport for exploring the underwater world habitats.
Historical sites
How can you spend a wonderful cruise day in the historic capital of St. Thomas? Take a taxi from Havensight Cruise Pier to downtown Charlotte Amalie. Start your walking tour at Fort Christian, a colonial fort from 1680 and the oldest building in the U.S. Virgin Islands. At the same time, visit the nearby Emancipation Garden.
After touring the historic sites, go to the 99 Steps, which lead to stunning panoramic views of Charlotte Amalie and Long Bay. At the top, you can head for Blackbeard’s Castle—one of the most visited tourist attractions in the island’s capital.
Other things to do on a cruise day in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, include the following:
- Bluebeard’s Castle Museum: Explore this historic tower, which is said to be the haunt of the infamous pirate Bluebeard. It is now a museum with artifacts and stunning views.
- St. Thomas Synagogue: Built in 1833, it’s the second-oldest synagogue in the Western Hemisphere, renowned for its beautiful sand floor and rich history.
- Pirates Treasure Museum: Dive into the intriguing world of pirates with interactive exhibits, artifacts, and treasures from shipwrecks.
Unique experiences in St. Thomas
St. Thomas offers several attractions you won’t find elsewhere in the Virgin Islands. Let’s look at two of them.
Coral World Ocean Park
Coral World Ocean Park is one of the best attractions in the U.S. Virgin Islands for getting close to dolphins. The marine park offers an immersive experience with the island’s vibrant underwater ecosystem. The park features interactive exhibits like the Undersea Observatory, 20 feet (6 m) below the surface, to marvel at marine habitats without getting wet.
Coral World also features sea turtles, sea lions, stingrays, juvenile sharks, and sea cucumbers. The Sea Trek Experience gives you a diving experience without any experience or knowledge of diving.
Skyride to Paradise Point
Before returning to the cruise ship, take this scenic cable car ride 700 feet (210 m) above Charlotte Amalie. You can enjoy awesome panoramic vistas of the island and Charlotte Amalie’s harbor at the mountaintop. You can also enjoy snacking at the bar or try the famous Bushwacker coffee and rum cocktail.
St. John Port
Located just a brief ferry ride from St. Thomas, St. John is a picturesque island in the U.S. Virgin Islands. The small island is known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, colorful marine habitats, and lush tropical landscapes. With its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, St. John is a fantastic way to spend a cruise day.
Cruz Bay, St. John
Cruz Bay is the main town and port in St. John, where ferries from Red Hook Bay or Charlotte Amalie arrive from St. Thomas. The picturesque town has several restaurants, boutiques, and bars. Here, you can enjoy local cuisine and explore the colorful markets. Also, several beaches are within walking distance or a short drive from the town.
Snorkeling and scuba diving
The waters around St. John have some of the best snorkeling sites in the Caribbean. Head for Trunk Bay, Maho Bay, or Waterlemon Cay for the best snorkeling.
- Trunk Bay: Located 3.5 miles (5.6 km) from Cruz Bay, this spot has a spectacular 650-foot (200 m) underwater snorkeling trail. It offers crystal-clear waters and colorful, vibrant coral reefs, making it popular with snorkelers of all levels.
- Maho Bay: Maho Bay is the best snorkeling spot on the island for beginners and families with children. The bay is home to a variety of marine life, including tropical fish, conch, rays, lobster, and sea turtles.
- Waterlemon Cay: The most popular snorkeling spot in St. John is Waterlemon Cay in Leinster Bay. The Leinster underwater trail informs you about the types of corals and fish you can spot.
You can also book an excursion from the cruise port in St. Thomas, which will take you on a snorkeling adventure to St. John.
Best beaches in St. John
Most travelers visit St. John on a cruise or vacation to enjoy its beautiful beaches. If you’re looking for tranquil waters for swimming, vibrant reefs for snorkeling, or secluded coves for relaxation, you’ll find what you’re looking for in St. John.
Here are descriptions of the best beaches in St. John.
Trunk Bay Beach
Trunk Bay Beach is one of the most popular beaches on St. John. Its shallow, calm waters are perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s also one of the most photogenic beaches, with plenty of amenities and facilities. Trunk Bay Beach is safe, with lifeguards on duty.
Honeymoon Beach
Honeymoon Beach is one of the most secluded beaches on St. John. This romantic getaway has a soft, white-sand shoreline and clear, calm waters. From the beach, you can enjoy outstanding views of nearby cays. Access to the beach is via a short hike.
Maho Bay Beach
Maho Bay Beach on St. John’s north shore offers a serene and picturesque setting. It’s one of the best beaches to relax on a cruise day and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty. It’s also the best place to see turtles. The beach has watersports equipment rentals, bars, and restaurants.
Cinnamon Bay Beach
Cinnamon Bay on St. John is a magnificent beach with crystalline blue waters and powdery white sand. Activities at the beach include snorkeling, swimming, windsurfing, and kayaking. It’s one of the longest beaches in St. John’s National Park.
What to do in St. John
St. John in the U.S. Virgin Islands offers more than just stunning beaches. For example, St. John’s National Park has many hiking trails through lush rainforests and breathtaking scenery. This green wilderness covers about two-thirds of the island. Popular hiking trails with guides include the following:
- Salt Pond and Drunk Bay
- Hike through the Lamburtos Estate
- Snorkeling and hiking via Lind Point Trail to Honeymoon Beach
Historical Sites
Many historic sites in St. John reflect its colonial past and dealings with enslaved people. Hiking through the National Park takes you to several sugar plantation ruins and colonial buildings. You also get a glimpse into the island’s ancient history with petroglyphs carved by ancient Taino people at Cinnamon Bay.
St. Croix Cruise Port
St. Croix is the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, located 42.5 miles (68 km) south of St. Thomas. The beautiful island has a blend of rich history and natural beauty with pristine beaches and vibrant coral reefs. Historical landmarks like Fort Christiansvaern and Estate Whim Plantation offer a serene and culturally rich Caribbean experience.
What are the best ways to spend time in St. Croix on a cruise day? Please read on to find out.
Frederiksted, St. Croix
Frederiksted is where cruise ships dock in St. Croix on this beautiful Caribbean island. The cruise port is beside downtown Frederiksted and has a nearby beach, historic sites, and fantastic shopping experiences. The town boasts a diverse culinary scene reflecting the island’s rich cultural heritage—everything from fresh seafood Cruzan dishes to American fare like conch fritters.
Snorkeling and scuba diving in St. Croix
St. Croix has amazing scuba diving and snorkeling spots in its waters. For example, along St. Croix’s north shore is Cane Bay Wall, often called “The Wall,” a dramatic underwater drop-off that attracts divers from around the world. The island’s north side also has many coral reefs close to the beach.
The Cane Bay Wall is stunning for scuba divers, with some places dropping dramatically from 1,000 to 13,000 feet (300 meters to nearly 4,000 meters). This feature creates an underwater cliff rich with marine life, such as sea turtles, conch, lobster, nurse sharks, and teeming with tropical fish.
Buck Island Reef National Monument is a premier snorkeler’s paradise. The small, uninhabited island features crystal-clear azure waters and an underwater trail teeming with vibrant coral reefs and colorful fish.
Other top snorkeling spots in St. Croix include the following:
- Shoys Beach: A great spot to spot sea turtles while snorkeling, as the seagrass meadows attract various sea creatures.
- Cane Bay Beach: This popular snorkeling spot has calm, crystal-clear waters, perfect for beginners and experienced snorkelers. The shallow areas near the shore have vibrant marine life and colorful coral formations.
- Davis Bay Beach: Near the shore at Davis Bay are spectacular shallow water reefs. Farther out from shore is the underwater wall that drops off around 25 feet (7.6 m) deep and plunges to over 2,000 feet (6 km).
Beautiful beaches in St. Croix
St. Croix boasts stunning beaches that are perfect for relaxing on a cruise day. Some beaches near the port in Frederiksted are within walking distance. But the best beaches in St. Croix are on the north shore. It takes around 30 minutes to travel to beaches east of Christiansted—the island’s capital.
Rainbow Beach
Rainbow Beach is one of the most popular beaches on the island. Just 5 minutes from the cruise piers, it’s known for soft white sand and peaceful, pristine turquoise waters. The lively beach has plenty of amenities like beach chairs, umbrellas, beachfront bars, restaurants, and music. It also offers good snorkeling just offshore.
Cane Bay Beach
Cane Bay Beach is a picturesque stretch of white sand on St. Croix’s north shore. Cruise passengers visit the beach for its lively atmosphere, shallow, calm waters, beachfront bars, and water sports. Thanks to its vibrant coral reefs and the Cane Bay Wall, it’s also the top snorkeling and scuba diving location on St. Croix.
Travel time from the cruise port in Frederiksted is 30 minutes.
North Star Beach
North Star Beach is a serene, hidden gem on St. Croix, offering tranquil turquoise waters and a peaceful setting. It’s ideal for a quiet beach day by the sea if you want solitude. It features soft sand and calm surf, perfect for swimming and relaxing. There are no amenities at the beach, but Cane Beach is nearby.
Sandy Point Beach
Part of the Sandy Point National Wildlife Refuge, the beach is famous for its long, pristine shoreline and nesting sea turtles. This protected area offers a natural, untouched beach experience with crystal-clear waters and soft sands. It’s an ideal spot if you want to unwind close to nature.
It’s only open on the weekends, and travel time from Frederiksted is 15 minutes.
Historical sites
Many historical sites in Frederiksted and Christiansted reflect the island’s colonial past. Walking through the colorful towns gives you a feel of Caribbean life in the 19th century. What is there to see and do for history buffs in St. Croix?
Frederiksted in St. Croix is a hub of historical sites, including Fort Frederik with its imposing Clock Tower and Old Danish School, now a police station. You can also explore the Caribbean Museum Center for the Arts, highlighting local art, and delve into the colonial past at the Old Danish Customs House and Steeple Building Museum.
Christiansted is the capital and largest town in St. Croix. It’s famous for stunning, colorful Victorian architecture and Danish colonial heritage. The imposing Fort Christiansvaern overlooks the harbor. On its grounds or nearby are the following historical buildings:
- Scale House with mercantile history
- Old Danish Customs House tied to slave trading
- Government House showcasing Danish Colonial architecture
Unique experiences in St. Croix
Booking a shore excursion to Buck Island Reef National Monument is an unforgettable experience. This protected marine area is home to vibrant coral reefs and abundant marine life. Snorkeling excursions typically include boat or catamaran travel to the island, drinks, lunch, guided snorkeling tours, and relaxing on Turtle Beach.
Guide to British Virgin Islands Cruise Ports
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are popular ports of call for cruise ships. Most ships dock at Tortola (Road Town) and Virgin Gorda (Spanish Town). The port at the smaller island of Jost Van Dyke cannot handle large ships, and cruise ships anchor offshore tender passengers ashore.
Tortola Cruise Port
Tortola is the largest island in the BVI and known for its stunning beaches and colorful capital town, Road Town. Some top attractions for cruise passengers include hiking in Sage Mountain National Park, snorkeling around Norman Island, and relaxing on Cane Garden Bay Beach. The tropical island offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and Caribbean charm.
Arriving in Road Town, Tortola
Road Town is the location of the cruise port in Tortola. The cruise terminal is located in the stunning Road Harbour—a horseshoe-shaped sheltered bay. All the amenities and facilities in Road Town are a short walk from the Tortola Cruise Ship Pier.
This vibrant capital hub in the BVI has quaint streets with colorful buildings and 19th-century architecture. The port town is home to an art gallery, folk museum, botanical gardens, bars, restaurants, and shops selling souvenirs and local crafts.
Snorkeling and scuba diving
Tortola offers fantastic snorkeling and scuba diving spots in the Caribbean. The island’s clear waters and ample marine life make it a paradise for underwater enthusiasts.
For the best diving experiences, book an excursion to the islands south of Tortola. The RMS Rhone shipwreck off Salt Island is the most popular scuba diving site. Here, you can explore a sunken ship and marvel at vibrant corals and diverse sea creatures.
The best snorkeling locations in Tortola are at Smuggler’s Cove or Brewers Bay. These beaches have good facilities and stunning coral reefs close to the shore. Both spots are perfect for beginners and seasoned snorkelers, offering shallow waters and spectacular underwater landscapes.
Tortola Beaches
Like all beaches in the Virgin Islands, Tortola’s beaches are stunning stretches of ivory-white sand, crystalline waters, and calm conditions. Let’s look at the best beaches in Tortola.
Cane Garden Bay Beach
The beach at Cane Garden Bay is one of the most popular ones with cruise passengers. At the beach, you can relax on soft white sand, swim in calm waters, and enjoy local cuisine and drinks at vibrant beach bars. It’s an 8-minute taxi ride from the cruise pier in Road Town. At the same time, you can visit the nearby Callwood Rum Distillery.
Smugglers’ Cove
Located on the western tip of Tortola, this secluded beach offers a serene getaway from the crowds. It also has great snorkeling. The beach is a 10-mile (17 km) drive from Road Town.
Brewers Bay
This unspoiled beach, 4 miles (6.4 km) from Road Town, is a tranquil location with beautiful turquoise waters and lush green surroundings. It’s less crowded than other popular beaches, making it an ideal choice if you’re seeking a peaceful day by the sea.
Josiah’s Bay
The beach at Josiah’s Bay is a beautiful, undeveloped stretch of white sand and calm, clear, blue waters. You can rent umbrellas and beach chairs, and it’s an excellent Caribbean location for swimming and snorkeling in peace, away from cruise crowds.
What to do in Tortola
The beautiful British Virgin Island of Tortola offers a plethora of activities for cruise travelers. Of course, exploring Road Town or visiting a stunning beach is high on most people’s agendas. But what else does the beautiful island have to offer? Here are a few ideas for your cruise day.
- Sage Mountain National Park: Why not get close to nature and hike in the Sage Mountain National Park? Hiking to the summit of Sage Mountain or Mount Alma gives you breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding islands. You can also explore abandoned plantation buildings and encounter native wildlife.
- Kayaking through mangroves: A mangrove kayaking tour takes you through lush landscapes. You can marvel at the mangroves, spot sea creatures in the crystal-clear waters, and relax in the Caribbean landscape. You may see stingrays, sea turtles, barracuda, and young sharks.
- Visit the J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens: Located in Road Town, the J.R. O’Neal Botanic Gardens offer a peaceful haven from the hustle and bustle of cruise crowds. Stroll through the well-manicured gardens and admire the colorful flowers, tropical plants, and serene water features.
- Boat trip to The Baths on Virgin Gorda: One of the most outstanding experiences in the British Virgin Islands is the Baths on Virgin Gorda. Few cruise ships stop at the neighboring island. So, taking an excursion to Virgin Gorda gives you a one-of-a-kind chance to swim and snorkel in stunning tidal pools under huge granite boulders.
Tortola’ s Historical Sites
Tortola’s rich history is reflected in its historical sites. Some of the oldest buildings in Road Town date back to the 18th century. In Road Town, you can visit Fort Burt to learn about the island’s colonial past. Other historic sites include the old H.M. Prison Museum, St. Philip’s Anglican Church, and the Crafts Alive Village.
The Callwood Rum Distillery is on the island’s north coast and is one of the Caribbean’s oldest continuously operating pot distilleries. Here, you can learn about the island’s rum-making heritage and sample local rum.
Unique experiences in Tortola
Tortola is the gateway to stunning islands and cays. You can have an unforgettable experience by booking an island-hopping tour from Tortola on your cruise day. These excursions usually include lunch and drinks and visit the following islands:
- Norman Island: Explore hidden caves and learn about pirate history.
- Salt Island: Snorkel in the pristine waters around the island.
- Peter Island: Enjoy time on luxurious beaches.
- Ginger Island: Explore untouched landscapes and snorkel in stunning coral reefs.
Virgin Gorda Cruise Port
The cruise port in Virgin Gorda is in Spanish Town and caters to smaller cruise ships. Larger cruise ships anchor offshore and transport passengers to the island on smaller boats. The main attraction in Virgin Gorda is “The Baths”—a collection of enormous granite boulders that form secluded rock pools and tunnels.
Spanish Town is a perfect starting point for discovering Virgin Gorda’s stunning beaches, unique geological formations, and cultural sites.
Arriving in Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda
Disembarking from the cruise ship or tendering boat, you’ll see that Spanish Town is a small town with numerous shopping opportunities. It has a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere with some bars. Most visitors to the islands head for the famous Baths and beautiful beaches or explore the copper mine ruins.
Snorkeling and scuba diving
Virgin Gorda offers incredible snorkeling and scuba diving opportunities with its clear waters and vibrant marine life. The most popular snorkeling spot on the island is the Baths. Here, you can explore underwater caverns and caves and swim in tidal pools. The Baths are a 10-minute drive south of Spanish Town’s ferry docks.
Here are three more popular snorkeling spots in Virgin Gorda:
- Savannah Bay: Known for its expansive and serene shoreline, this spot offers gentle waters that are ideal for snorkeling. The bay’s pristine coral reefs are home to various marine species. The underwater trail makes identifying hard and soft corals and marine plants easy.
- Pond Bay: This secluded bay provides excellent snorkeling opportunities with its clear waters and vibrant coral reefs. It’s less crowded, offering a peaceful location to observe marine life. Reefs are close to the shore.
- Mahoe Bay: The bay is protected by two reefs in shallow water, making it a perfect location for novice snorkelers. The clear waters reveal colorful corals and abundant marine life in just a brief swim from the shore.
Best beaches in Virgin Gorda
The Baths at Spring Bay are the go-to location in Virgin Gorda, where you can experience the most unique beach in the Caribbean. However, it can get crowded on cruise days. So, what are the alternatives in Virgin Gorda to enjoy a tranquil, serene beach day away from crowds?
Here are a few ideas for planning your trip:
Valley Trunk Bay Beach
Located just over a mile from the ferry docks, the beach is known for its pristine white sand and turquoise waters. This peaceful beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the Caribbean’s natural beauty.
Savannah Bay
The stunning stretch of powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters make it perfect for spending a peaceful day by the sea. It’s ideal for families as the shallow waters and calm conditions make it an excellent and safe spot for swimming.
Little Dix Bay
This beautiful beach at Little Dix Bay on the island’s west coast has white sand, no waves, no seaweed, and the shore is lined with tropical palm trees. Sunbed rentals are available. It’s a perfect getaway for spending a romantic beach day.
Virgin Gorda’s Historical Sites
A few historical sites on Virgin Gorda reflect the island’s colonial past and mining heritage.
The most-visited historical site on the island is the Copper Mine ruins dating from the early 19th century. Cornish miners from the United Kingdom extracted ore, which was then shipped to Wales. The mine closed in 1862 and is thought to extend 240 feet (73 m) under the sea. You can see the beam engine on the beach in Handsome Bay.
Other historic sites on Virgin Gorda include the remains of a Spanish fort in Little Fort National Park and an old Methodist church dating back to the 19th century.
Unique experiences in Virgin Gorda
One of the most unique experiences in Virgin Gorda is exploring The Baths. This natural wonder features massive granite boulders scattered across the beach. These vast stones create a series of stunning caverns, tunnels, and pools. You can walk through the labyrinth of rocks to discover hidden beaches and swim or snorkel in crystal-clear tidal pools.
The Baths is a must-visit attraction when visiting Virgin Gorda. It’s also a popular excursion for cruise passengers who arrive on Tortola for the day.
Jost Van Dyke Port
Jost Van Dyke is the smallest of the British Virgin Islands where cruise ships arrive. Also called JVD or Jost, the tiny island is 3 miles (4.8 km) north of Tortola. The main attractions on the island revolve around water activities—swimming, snorkeling, or relaxing on the stunning beaches. However, hiking is also a popular activity.
The island is also a popular ship excursion destination with cruise passengers who dock at Tortola.
Great Harbour, Jost Van Dyke
Cruise ships anchor off the coast and small boats take passengers to the charming Great Harbour. The beautiful natural harbor has crystal-clear waters and a lively beachfront. The beach area is famous for the iconic Foxy’s Bar, which serves cocktails and traditional Caribbean cuisine. Great Harbour Port is one of the busiest in the BVI.
Snorkeling and scuba diving
Jost Van Dyke, with its nearby islands and cays, offers an array of exceptional snorkeling opportunities. Most beaches have vibrant coral reefs teeming with marine life close to the shore. Some of the most outstanding snorkeling spots are Sandy Cay, Little Jost Van Dyke, Sandy Spit, and Green Cay.
Best beaches in Jost Van Dyke
Jost Van Dyke is home to stunning beaches dotted around its coast. Many of these stretches of soft, white sand have lively beach bars and an authentic Caribbean vibe. Despite being a popular tourist hotspot, you can find secluded spots to bask in the sun and unwind or swim in the crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Here are some of the best beaches on Jost Van Dyke.
White Bay Beach
The beach at White Bay is known for its powdery white sand, vibrant atmosphere, and stunning beach bars. Its most famous attraction is the Soggy Dollar Bar—the reputed birthplace of the popular Painkiller drink.
Great Harbour Beach
The beach at Great Harbour Bay is perfect for a relaxing day with scenic views and calm waters. The beach offers a laid-back experience. The soft ivory-white sand is ideal for sunbathing, and the clear blue calm waters provide perfect conditions for snorkeling or swimming.
Little Jost Van Dyke Beach
If you’re looking for a quieter and more secluded beach, Little Jost Van Dyke is the perfect choice. This tiny island is home to pristine beaches, untouched by crowds. You can find your own private spot to unwind, swim, or enjoy the breathtaking beauty of the turquoise waters and lush greenery.
Sandy Spit Beach
If you want an authentic desert island castaway experience, take a trip to Sandy Spit. This tiny, uninhabited island is unspoiled, providing the ultimate ambiance for relaxing and unwinding.
Unique experiences in Jost Van Dyke
Bubbly Pool on Jost Van Dyke offers a unique and exhilarating natural experience. This hidden gem is a natural rock formation where incoming waves fill the tidal pools with foamy bubbles. Rugged cliffs surround it, and beautiful scenery creates a picturesque landscape, making it a one-of-a-kind BVI experience.
Located on the island’s northeastern shore, access to the natural wonder is a five to ten-minute hike from Foxy’s bar opposite Little Jost Van Dyke.
Practical Tips for Cruisers in the Virgin Islands
Here are some tips for making your cruise day in the USVI or BVI memorable.
Cuisine: Make sure to try local dishes like fresh seafood, conch fritters, and Caribbean-style jerk chicken. Other popular dishes include rice and beans, callaloo soup, and locally produced ice cream. Also, don’t forget to try the famous Painkiller cocktail, especially in Jost Van Dyke.
Transportation: Taxis and shuttles are readily available at cruise ports. For more flexibility, consider renting a car or scooter. Ferries connect the major islands, making island-hopping convenient.
Safety: The Virgin Islands are generally safe, but always stay aware of your surroundings. Use reef-friendly sunscreen, stay hydrated, and be cautious when swimming or snorkeling because currents can get strong in deeper waters.
Currency and communication: The U.S. dollar is the official currency of both island groups. English is the primary language, making communicating with locals straightforward. However, you may hear variations of Spanish and Virgin Islands Creole spoken.
Weather: The Virgin Islands enjoy warm weather year-round. However, the dry season from December to April is the best time to visit the Virgin Islands. This is when you can enjoy the most pleasant conditions with minimal risk of rainfall or hurricanes.
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