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Dead Chest National Park: A Pirate's Tale

Explore the legendary Dead Chest National Park in the British Virgin Islands: pirate history, vibrant marine life, and snorkeling adventures.

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Dead Chest National Park, an uninhabited island in the British Virgin Islands, is steeped in pirate lore and offers excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities. It's named after the legend of Blackbeard marooning 15 men with only a bottle of rum each, inspiring the famous sea shanty.

A brief summary to Dead Chest National Park

  • Unnamed Road, VG

Local tips

  • Bring your snorkeling gear to explore the colorful coral reefs and diverse marine life.
  • Wear sturdy footwear for hiking on the island's rocky terrain.
  • Pack plenty of water and snacks, as there are no facilities on the uninhabited island.
  • Check the weather conditions before you go, as the exposed sites are best visited in settled conditions.
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Getting There

  • Water Taxi

    The most common way to reach Dead Chest National Park is by hiring a water taxi from Tortola or a neighboring island. Head to the nearest marina or dock and look for local water taxi services that operate between the islands. The water taxi ride typically costs around $30-50 per person, depending on your departure point. Be sure to ask the captain to drop you off at Dead Chest National Park, located at the coordinates 18.365339, -64.563185.

  • Boat Tour

    Consider booking a guided tour that includes transportation to Dead Chest National Park. Many local tour operators offer packages that include pick-up from your hotel or a central location, a water taxi ride, and guided snorkeling. Prices for guided tours vary, typically ranging from $75 to $150 per person, depending on the services included.

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Discover more about Dead Chest National Park

Dead Chest National Park, a small, uninhabited island in the British Virgin Islands, is a destination brimming with history and natural beauty. The island, also known as Dead Man's Chest Island, is a protected national park offering visitors a unique blend of pirate lore and underwater exploration. The island's name is said to originate from the infamous pirate Blackbeard, who allegedly marooned fifteen of his crew on the island with only a bottle of rum. This grim tale is believed to be the inspiration behind the classic sea shanty, “Fifteen men on a dead man's chest, yo ho ho, and a bottle of rum”. While the historical accuracy of this event is debated, it adds a layer of intrigue to the island's appeal. Today, Dead Chest National Park is renowned for its vibrant marine life and excellent snorkeling and diving sites. Coral Gardens and Dead Chest West are popular spots, boasting colorful coral formations, diverse fish species, archways, caves, and underwater mazes. The calm waters of Coral Gardens make it an ideal location for novice snorkelers. Divers can explore the underwater pinnacles and ledges at Blonde Rock or the colorful canyons of Painted Walls. While the island itself is barren with sparse vegetation, the surrounding waters teem with life, offering an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

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