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Road Harbour: The Heart of the British Virgin Islands

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Discover Road Harbour, Tortola: the British Virgin Islands' vibrant capital, offering a blend of history, culture, and stunning Caribbean beauty.

Road Harbour, situated in Road Town on Tortola, is the bustling commercial seaport and capital of the British Virgin Islands. Its name originates from the nautical term 'the roads,' referring to a safe place for ships to anchor. The harbor's strategic location and deep waters make it a vital hub for inter-island ferries, cruise ships, and yachts exploring the stunning British Virgin Islands.

A brief summary to Road Harbour

  • VG

Local tips

  • Explore the local shops and markets for unique, handcrafted souvenirs and a taste of authentic Caribbean culture.
  • Take a ferry from Road Harbour to explore other islands in the BVI, such as Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, or Anegada.
  • Visit the J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens for a peaceful escape and to admire the diverse tropical flora.
  • Enjoy the waterfront views and sample local cuisine at one of the many restaurants and bars around the harbor.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the Tortola Pier Park cruise ship terminal, Road Harbour is easily accessible on foot. Exit the terminal and walk along the Waterfront Drive. The main harbor area, with its shops, restaurants, and ferry docks, is within a 5-10 minute walk. No costs are involved for this final approach.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving at Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Beef Island, take a taxi to the Road Town Ferry Terminal. The taxi ride is approximately 50 minutes. Taxi fares are fixed by law and typically cost around $30-$40 USD. From the ferry terminal, Road Harbour is a short walk away.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Tortola. From anywhere in Road Town, a taxi to a specific location within Road Harbour (e.g., a marina or restaurant) will typically cost $5-$10 USD, depending on the distance and number of passengers. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Road Harbour

Road Harbour, located in Road Town, Tortola, serves as the central gateway to the British Virgin Islands, blending natural beauty with a vibrant island culture. The harbor's history is rich, witnessing the influences of Arawak and Carib peoples, Dutch settlement, and British colonization. Once a haven for pirates like Blackbeard, who utilized the hidden coves, the island's economy shifted from sugar plantations to fishing and tourism after the abolishment of slavery in 1834. Today, Road Harbour is a bustling hub, offering a blend of historical charm and modern amenities. Visitors can explore colorful colonial-style buildings, local shops, and the Virgin Islands Folk Museum, which showcases the island's rich history. The J.R. O'Neal Botanic Gardens provide a peaceful retreat with tropical plants and orchids. The harbor itself is a hive of activity, with ferries connecting to other islands, yachts setting sail, and cruise ships docking at Tortola Pier Park. Road Harbour is more than just a port; it's an ideal starting point for exploring the natural wonders of Tortola and the surrounding British Virgin Islands. From Road Harbour, one can easily access stunning beaches like Cane Garden Bay, historical sites such as Fort Burt, and the lush trails of Sage Mountain National Park.

Explore the best of what Road Harbour has to offer

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