TORTOLA, BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS, CARIBBEAN

Tortola is the largest and most populated of the British Virgin Islands and is the hub of the chain. Tortola means  "land of the Turtle Dove".

Tortola is a mountainous island 13.5 miles, or 19 km, long and 3 miles, or 5 km, wide, with an area of 21.5 square miles. Formed by volcanic activity, its highest peak is Mount Sage at 1750 feet, or 530 m. Tortola lies near an earthquake fault, and minor earthquakes are common.

VIRGIN GORDA

THE BATHS

Sophers Hole

Sophers Hole has long been known to yachties, drawn by the chance to exchange yarns in the Pusser's Bar. It is a mojor port and point of entry for BVIs.

Pusser's Rum

The name of the famous Caribbean rum came from the word ‘Purser’ who was responsible for distributing a daily ration of the grog to all sailors of Her Majesties' ships for more than 300 years. The initial ration was half a pint but before battle they got a double ration and after victory another double ration to celebrate. At 95.5% proof it’s amazing the cannonballs ever found their targets!
Over the years the ration was gradually reduced to a ‘tot’, or an eighth of a pint, and finally abandoned altogether in 1970. Until then, Pusser’s
rum was never sold to the general public but today a whole chain of stores are dedicated to marketing Pusser's Rum and other products

A walk along the docks and colorful traditional West Indian wooden houses and storefronts.

Marina Cay

Marina Cay lies just north of the main island of Tortola, next to Great Camanoe and Scrub Island. Marina Cay resort encompasses the flower-covered 8 acre island with a Pusser's restaurant, gift and dive shops, reasonable laundry and hilltop bar. A sheltered beach stretches into the shallow lagoon where children played in the sand.

March 4, 2011

We had drinks at the hilltop Rob White Bar, overlooking the lagoon. About 10 rooms are perched on the summit of the treed hill, all with beautiful views of the anchorage and surrounding reefs.

Eric Stone

Eric Stone is a well known entertainer and singer throughout the BVIs. We finally caught his show at Marina Cay. He gave a good performance and best of all.... free rum shooters!

Trellis Bay

Trellis Bay on Beef Island is the site of the famous Full Moon Parties, all night bashes on the beach, with the water lit up from the reflection of the giant
carved fireballs.

April 15, 2011

Our second visit to Cane Garden Bay was with Annie & Liam. We spent the evening Bar Hopping. On our sail onward the following day, a large catch dwarfed Ascension.