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Ports of Call
British Virgin Islands -
Tortola
There are over 60 islands, rocks and cays in the British Virgin Islands
archipelago but only 16 are inhabited. All of them, apart from Anegada, are
volcanic in origin. In general the atmosphere is quiet and uncommercialised,
with miles of beautiful unspoiled beaches and concealed bays offering
privacy and peace. The islands are situated in one of the finest sailing
areas in the world. The scenery ranges from jagged mountain peaks covered
with frangipani to banana and mango groves and palm trees. Tortola, a major
yachting centre, with a population of approximately 16,000, is the largest
island of the group. It is linked by a bridge to Beef Island, site of the
international airport. Road Town, on the south coast of Tortola, is the
capital of the British Virgin Islands. It has a colourful market and
delightful West Indian-style houses. Other attractions on the island are the
Sage Mountain National Park and the J R O'Neal Botanic Gardens. Many of the
best beaches are on the northern part of the island, with names such as
Smugglers' Cove, Long Bay and Brewer's Bay. Cane Garden Bay is host to a
number of bars and nightspots. There is an excellent view of the island and
its coast from Sage Mountain, 550m (1800ft) above sea level.
Other islands worth visiting are the coral island of Anegada, famous for the
many shipwrecks in the surrounding waters and a favorite diving area; Salt
Island, where salt is harvested each year and a bag sent to HM Queen
Elizabeth II; Norman Island, with caves and a wealth of local sea-shanties
and tales of treasure; and Virgin Gorda. On this island are found the famous
Baths, a unique rock formation of dimly lit grottoes and caves. Most of its
attractions can be reached only by foot or boat. The smaller islands have
strange names that are often the result of an historical connection with
smuggling and piracy - for example, Fallen Jerusalem, Necker Island (owned
by Richard Branson), Great Camanoe, Great Dogs and Ginger Island.
Beaches:
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Cane Garden
Bay: An action-filled beach popular for its gentle
surf and long, lovely curved bay. The colorful seaside bars and
restaurants, as well as a few small inns and villas and gift
shops give it a boardwalk appeal. Cane Garden Bay is a favoured
anchorage for boaters and all water sports activities are
available here.
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Brewer's
Bay Beach: Offers a quiet retreat and some of the
best snorkeling because of its many reefs. It also has the
island's only campground.
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Apple Bay
Beach: Grab your boogey board and get ready to chop
the waves of this very popular surfer's haven. After a few
chops, let Bomba's surfside bar get you fired up with a shot of
Bomba's infamous punch.
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Smuggler's
Cove: Get lost in the solitude of this hidden
treasure. Somewhat remote but worth the trip. You will find more
than just a snorkel and swim and the glorious view of Jost Van
Dyke in its background. When its time for a drink and a bag of
chips, help yourself at the honest bar.
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Josiah's
Bay Beach: Another surfer's world with its high waves
and awesome view of Guana Island. The Josiah's Bay Plantation
and an art gallery are nearby.
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Lambert
Bay: Is one of the north shore's finest beaches and
is a favourite picnic spot because of its sheltering palm grove
and fine white sand. A resort is located behind the beach.
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Long Bay:
A mile long stretch of white sand beach, perfect for tranquil
sunset walks. The western end, fringed with palms and seagrapes
offers greater solitude and good swimming.
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