Major cruise ships visiting the BVIs dock on the island of Tortola at the British Virgin Islands Cruise Port (sometimes referred to as Tortola Cruise Ship Pier) in Road Town. The terminal is located next to Tortola Pier Park, a hub filled with shops and restaurants. Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke are the easiest islands of the 60-island archipelago to explore during a day at port.
Snorkeling, sailing, fishing, and beach shore excursions can take you from one island to another, allowing you to experience the British Virgin Islands’ white sands, turquoise water, and colorful architecture. On Virgin Gorda, see the famous rock formations known as the Baths, and hang out on the laid-back island of Jost Van Dyke with a cocktail. Or simply explore Tortola on your own, browsing the local markets and historic attractions from the time of European settlement.
You’ll most likely dock in Road Harbour, Tortola (mostly luxury boats and small ships dock in Jost Van Dyke). From there, you can walk to Road Town and visit most of its sights on foot. To go elsewhere on Tortola, take a taxi from the dock area. To visit Virgin Gorda on your own, hop on a ferry from the ferry terminal just south of the Folk Museum.
English is the official language of the islands, and the currency is the US dollar. You can find ATMs in Road Town on Tortola and in Spanish Town on Virgin Gorda. Tortola Pier Park boasts a variety of restaurants and shops, and island tours can be arranged by vendors and operators within the park.