Cruises from Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda is the third largest of the 60 British Virgin Islands. It covers an area of approximately eight square miles and lies to the northwest of Tortola, the largest of the islands. The name Virgin Gorda means Fat Virgin and Christopher Columbus is reputed to have given the island its name because the outline of the island is reminiscent of a large woman laid on her back.

The island first became known as a travel destination in the 1970’s. It has a tropical climate so visitors can expect warmth and sunshine no matter what time of the year they visit. In spite of the fact that it has become quite popular, the island has not fallen prey to excessive commercialisation and there are a few resorts and a handful of rental villas to accommodate visitors.

The island has its own tiny airport and visitors from Canada and the United States can fly straight to their destination. Making flight reservations for the island is not straightforward and you can wait as long as forty eight hours before you receive confirmation of your flight. The main town on the island is known as Spanish Town and the island is much quieter than the larger Tortola Island. Generally speaking, visitors get around by taxi or by hired car although some of the North Sound area is only accessible by Ferry which runs from Gun Creek.

The ruins of the copper mine are well worth seeing and you can learn about the Cornish miners who worked below sea level. The island is extremely tranquil although it does offer all the usual water sports such as surfing, swimming, sailing, snorkelling and scuba diving. There are a number of wonderful beaches separated from each other by huge granite boulders. Changing rooms, lockers and refreshments are available on the beaches.

The most famous beach on Virgin Gorda is the Baths with its hidden caves and pools masked by granite boulders. If the beach is not your scene for too long, try the trail from North Sound Road to Gorda Peak, where you can view the whole island from an observation tower. You can also learn to sail at the Bitter End Yacht club if you are so inclined.

Virgin Gorda has plenty of places for tourists and locals to eat. Restaurant prices are generally expensive as most of the food has to be imported from the United States, or even further. A service charge of fifteen percent is usually included in the bill. Chez Bamboo in Spanish Town offers fine dining in a relaxed atmosphere and visitors can choose to eat their meal inside or outside. If you love Italian food then Giorgio’s Table is the place for you. There are also a few bars on the island and the Bath and Turtle at Yacht Harbour in Spanish Town offers entertainment most nights of the week. If you really do need a break from the peace and quiet of Virgin Gorda, Tortola is only a short ferry ride away.