Meet the Neighbors (British Virgin Islands)

Ahoy! Welcome aboard as we introduce you to our neighbors – The British Virgin Islands. Part of the allure of this region of the world is the vastness of the beautiful places and people existing on spits of sand not so far away from each other. If you’ve never ventured off of U.S. soil to explore these neighboring isles, here’s your chance to get acquainted with the other half of the Virgin Islands.

Flag with Union Jack and Virgin Islands coat of arms on blue field.

The Low Down

The British Virgin Islands archipelago consists of more than 60 different islands. Some are large and known for their beaches and resorts, while others are small and uninhabited. More than a few are actually private islands. Here are a few noteworthy facts:

The BVI’s population is approximately 27,800 citizens, and about 23,000 of those citizens live on Tortola.
The first people to settle the islands were the Arawak people around 100 B.C.
The BVI is a British Overseas Territory with King Charles III as the monarch.
The key industries are tourism and financial services.
The official currency is the U.S. dollar due to the islands’ proximity to the U.S. and Puerto Rico.
Driving is done on the left, though steering is located on the same side as in the United States as most vehicles come from the U.S, mainland.
Fungi is the traditional music of the islands and is composed of African and European influences.
Taxi drivers are required by law to be British Virgin Islanders.
The BVI flag consists of the British flag and the coat of arms of the BVI with St. Ursula and 11 burning lamps.
The BVI was once a colony of the Dutch Empire, but in 1672, the English invaded and captured Tortola, thereby ousting the Dutch.
Every year the BVI hosts a major sailing event, the BVI Spring Regatta and Sailing Festival, that lasts for three days.

The BVI’s Largest Island

Tortola is the BVI’s largest island and most inhabited. It is easily seen from St. John and St. Thomas as its highest peak, Mount Sage, is 530 metres or 1740 feet above sea level. The island’s largest settlement is Road Town with a population of 9,400 people where bustling markets, craftsmen, spice shops, and local produce abound.

Close-up of a 200ml Arundel Cane Rum bottle with an orange label on a wooden surface. Old distillery sign on stone wall with rusty metal wheels and springs.

Historical sites of interest include the Callwood Rum Distillery, which has been in operation for over 400 years and fortifications like Fort Burt and Fort Charlotte, both of which offer panoramic views. The oldest building on the island, located in Road Town, is His Majesty’s Prison, and those interested in the island’s sugar-producing history should visit the 18th-century Mount Healthy Windmill.

Nature lovers will appreciate the J.R. O’Neal Botanical Gardens in Road Town as well as the island’s most challenging hike to the summit in Sage Mountain National Park. Other nature-oriented options include the Mount Healthy National Park which offers a two-and-a-half hour tour through a semi-rainforest that ends at a natural spring and the Brewer’s Bay Trail, a relaxed, coastal path with sea views.

Beach and water sports enthusiasts should head to Cane Garden Bay on the north shore, noted for its soft sand and amenities. Smuggler’s Cove, which is more secluded, is known for its palm-fringed beaches and excellent snorkeling. Other options include Long Bay West and the surf-friendly Apple Bay.

The Small But Lively Jost Van Dyke

Four people pose on a sandy beach under palm trees, three holding swords. Three smiling people give thumbs up, one seated, on a wooden terrace with trees in the background.

Jost Van Dyke, named for a Dutch privateer, is one of the BVI’s smallest islands, but nevertheless packs an abundance of fun and charm into every inch of sand. When taking a boat day with Stormy Pirates, you’ll start your day with your crew checking into customs at Great Harbor while you get to explore the main village of the island. Stop by and say “Hi” to island legend Foxy Callwood and then stop by Corsairs and have a breakfast beer and Spicy Bloody May with Pizza Dave and Vinney. Or if all you want to do is relax on a beach, head over to White Bay, known for its white sand beach lined with famous beach bars and crystal clear waters. If you’re a snorkeling fan, by all means don your gear and take a look around as there is lots to see. Stop by the world-famous Soggy Dollar Bar for refreshments (definitely order a Painkiller, their signature drink!) or CoCoLoco for a Hug from Mama Loy and Uncle Wedall’s Rum Punch. Maybe you’d like a more active day, take a short hike to the Bubbly Pool, a natural sea-fed pool where waves create a Jacuzzi-like effect. If you’ve got the time, hop on over to Sandy Cay and Sandy Spit, two smaller islands that offer beautiful beaches, sparkling waters and lots of privacy to idle away a few hours. (Don’t pass up the opportunity to indulge in some of the area’s best dining as barbeque, West Indian dishes, Lobster, and seafood entrees fill the menus at the isle’s various beachside eateries!)

Five people smiling and holding bottles in a decorated bar with hats and shirts hanging above. Two men pose with a woman in a colorful, decorated bar.

The Most Beautiful Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda, so named by Christopher Columbus as he found the island’s shape reminded him of a reclining woman with a large belly. Virgin Gorda is the BVI’s third-largest island and is often praised as the most beautiful. The Baths, National Park is perhaps the isle’s most iconic spot and with good reason. The granite boulders and crystal-clear pools of water are mesmerizing and Devils Bay is consistently ranked as one of the world most beautiful beaches. As you make your way through the maze of tide pools, tunnels and grottos, be sure to take a few photos.

People in shallow clear water with boulders and a boat in the background under a sunny sky. Coconut with a straw on sandy beach, surrounded by large rocks and clear blue sea. Group of smiling people standing in a narrow rock passage, holding onto a rope.

Nearby is Spring Bay National Park and Devil’s Bay, both of which are worth exploring. If scuba diving is your jam, head to the vibrant underwater action at The Dogs (a cluster of five small, uninhabited islands situated between Tortola and Virgin Gorda) or dive the wreck of the Chikuzen. (In 1981, a Korean refrigerator vessel was intentionally sunk and it now lies on its side attracting a diverse collection of marine life.) For enthusiasts of paddleboarding, kiteboarding and sailing, head to the North Sound, famous for its coral reefs, upscale resorts, stunning green hills, and sparkling blue waters.

The Northernmost British Virgin Island – Anegada

Unlike the volcanic origin of the other BVIs, Anegada, only 14 sq. miles, is a flat, coral-and-limestone island with pristine white sand that’s located about 15 miles away from the main chain of islands. Its name means “flooded land” in Spanish, which reflects its low-lying elevation. (Its highest point is only 28 feet above sea level.) The peaceful, laid-back atmosphere that pervades the island is the perfect backdrop to spectacular snorkeling, (Think: striking reefs, underwater caves, tunnels, and old shipwrecks!)

Those who love quiet beaches should head to the peaceful shores of Cow Wreck Beach, Flash of Beauty, Bones Bight or Windlass Bight. For a little more excitement, check out the kitesurfing and paddleboarding at the Anegada Beach Club. Noted as a prime spot for deep sea fishing, anglers can expect to reel in bonefish and tarpon.

Nature abounds on Anegada with such interesting sites as rock iguanas, wild orchids, tropical birds, and lush landscapes. Be sure to check out the nature trail at Bones Bight and the views at Nutmeg Point. At the eastern end of the island, visitors always enjoy seeing the shell mounds, a remnant of the island’s Arawak history.

Got a craving for some good eats? Head to the island in late November for the island’s annual Lobster festival that features a variety of fresh-caught lobster dishes, live music and Caribbean vibes.

Lesser Known But Worth A Peek

Beef Island – Home to Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport and Trellis Bay, a lovely beachside town with points of interest.
Cooper Island – Mostly a private island located 5 miles from the southeastern shores of Tortola, this BVI is home to a handful of private estates as well as a beachfront resort. Stormy PIrates can take you here on our Baths, Cooper & Norman Island SCHEDULED charter or a Private trip on our power boats.
Norman Island – This privately-owned island is uninhabited and was the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel, Treasure Island. It’s a popular destination for boaters and offers some amazing snorkeling and diving at water-level caves as well as some beautiful hiking trails. The large protected harbor is called The Bight and visitors love frequenting the Pirates Bight Bar and the floating Willie T bar.
Scrub Island – Located a short ferry ride away from Tortola, this private island is famous for its luxurious Scrub Island Resort, Spa & Marina that features opulent accommodations, a private beach, a pool, spa treatments and crystal-clear waters for snorkeling and diving.
Saba Rock – Located in the North Sound of Virgin Gorda, this small island resort is known for its luxury hotel, restaurant, bar and marina. While its design is upscale and chic, the vibe is definitely laid-back and free-spirited. Yachters, divers and kiteboarders all abound at this popular destination.
Prickly Pear – This small, uninhabited island is also a national park that’s located in the North Sound off of Virgin Gorda. White-sand beaches, aqua waters and thriving coral reefs make it a great place for snorkeling and swimming. Stop by the Sandbox bar and grill for food and drinks and check out the island’s hiking trails which are full of native lizards and birds.
Eustatia – This 35-acre private island, owned by Google co-founder Larry Page, is known for its exclusive, high-end resort with environmentally sustainable practices and an extensive water sports center. Guests can choose to stay in private villas or cottages, all while being pampered by private chefs and staff to help with beach and water activities.
Guana Island – Also a private island, all 850-acres, Guana is known for its “barefoot luxury” resort. Guests can enjoy an all-inclusive vacation with 7 amazing beaches, hiking trails and a working farm that supplies the on-site restaurant. While the isle is a nature preserve with a variety of wildlife, the resort offers world-class dining and well-appointed cottages and villas.
Moskito – This private isle’s motto is: “Where awe meets adventure + dreams are realized.” Owned by Sir Richard Branson and located near Virgin Gorda and Necker Island, Moskito features unique and well-furnished estates (Such as Branson Estate, The Village, and The Point Estate) equipped with staff to ensure guests have a quiet, peaceful vacation that’s catered to their needs.
Great Camanoe – Another secluded private island with stunning natural landscapes and beautiful beaches. Located near Tortola, Great Camanoe doesn’t offer any commercial activities, only exclusive villas close to beaches and excellent snorkeling.
Buck Island – Once a private retreat as well as the site for the BVI’s first airstrip, Buck Island is located in the Sir Francis Drake Channel, is now home to The Aerial BVI, an eco-resort focused on “purpose luxury” and personal growth experiences. Guests can enjoy hiking, water sports, and exploring the area’s diverse ecosystem.

Let’s GO!!!

If reading about the BVIs has tickled your curiosity, maybe it’s time to plan a boat day with Stormy Pirates to go exploring. Our crew is licensed to take you there in comfort and we handle all of the out-of-country entry details. While customized trips are always an option, Stormy Pirates currently has several BVI options including: The Baths & White Bay (Includes a guided hike, time at the beach, exploring the grottos and caves, and lunch at Soggy Dollar Bar); The Baths, Cooper Island & Norman Island (Includes exploring The Baths, lunch at the Cooper Island Beach Club & Micro Brewery, and a quick stop at Pirates Bight or the Willy-T); Catamaran Sail to Jost Van Dyke (Explore Jost Van Dyke, Foxy’s and Soggy Dollar Bar), and Jost Van Dyke Funday & Willy-T (Combination of our two most popular trips).

End Notes: With so much to explore and see in both the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, let the professionals be your guides and hosts for a day on the water. Stormy Pirates is ready and able to make your boat day a memorable occasion. (There’s a reason our company consistently gets rave reviews and is a repeat Travelers Choice Award recipient. Visit our web page for more information about our fleet of boats, and as always, we promise to put the gang plank down and escort you in style.

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