A beach on Tortola, BVI
Passengers whose cruise is scheduled to stop at the island of Tortola in the British Virgin Islands will probably have lots of options for their time on the island. Here's some information about things to see and do there, and choose the best excursion.
Instructions
1. Decide how much time you want to devote to different activities on Tortola. Tortola offers exploration of historical sites, shopping and dining, hiking, horseback riding and water activities like boating and snorkeling. If you want to do just one activity, you're all set; but if you want to take in a meal and see Fort George, make a plan for how long you'll spend doing each. Schedule your time so that it makes sense: for instance, there's no sense going shopping before you go snorkeling --- you'd just have to carry your new purchases with you. Plan to do sports activities before shopping or eating.
2. Set a budget if you have several activities you want to do on your excursion or plan to do some shopping. Activity fees --- if they are not included with your cruise fees --- can add up rapidly. If you are interested in seeing a lot of the island, check out the various costs of tours vs. renting a boat for a few hours. If you are on a limited budget, some activities may be out of your range; but remember that lounging on the beach, having a swim, window-shopping and taking photos are all free on Tortola --- and that the beaches and views are amazing.
3. Consider your limitations. If you have any disabilities or are traveling with small children, you'll need to select activities on Tortola appropriate for your needs. If you use a wheelchair and want to explore the beaches, you can rent specially built sand wheelchairs at a number of locations. Contact Deming Designs in advance (link below) to arrange for a beach wheelchair for your excursion. Other Tortola attractions with access for the disabled include Josiah's Bay Plantation Art Gallery, the North Shore Shell Museum, Sunny Caribbee Spice Company and Art Gallery, several artists' studios, the Callwood Rum Distillery and the Virgin Island Folk Museum. For children, your excursions might include swimming with dolphins, exploring the ruins of the Dungeon, the sloop Vigilant, Thornton Plantation and Mount Healthy Windmill National Park.
