Norman Island, West End Travel Guide

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Explore Norman Island, BVI: Uncover pirate legends, snorkel in hidden caves, and discover the inspiration behind Treasure Island.

Norman Island, a gem in the British Virgin Islands, is believed to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's 'Treasure Island'. Uninhabited except for wild goats, this island allures visitors with its pirate history, hidden caves, and excellent snorkeling spots.

A brief summary to Norman Island

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Norman Island.

Bring snorkeling gear, including a flashlight, to fully explore the caves.
Check ferry schedules in advance, as they can vary.
Consider visiting Benures Bay for a less crowded anchorage and stunning sunset views.
Explore the hiking trail that runs along the ridge of Norman Island for awesome views.

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Explore Norman Island on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Norman Island, mapped for you.

Getting There

Ferry

To reach Norman Island, travelers typically take a ferry from Tortola. Ferries depart from West End, Tortola, and arrive at Norman Island via Cruz Bay, St John. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 2 hours and 5 minutes. Check the ferry schedules in advance as they may vary. A one-way ferry ticket costs around $20 for adults and $10 for children.
Taxi

From anywhere in Tortola, you can take a taxi to the West End Ferry Terminal. Taxis are readily available. The taxi fare depends on the distance and number of passengers. As an estimate, taxi fare for a group of 3 or more people from the Tortola cruise pier to Brewers Bay, Cane Garden Bay, or Long Bay is $12 per person. Confirm the price with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Norman Island

Norman Island, located at the southern tip of the British Virgin Islands, is steeped in pirate lore and believed to be the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's 'Treasure Island'. The island spans approximately 610 acres of uninhabited terrain, offering a haven for boaters, divers, and treasure-hunting enthusiasts.Legend has it that Norman Island was named after a pirate who either bought or leased the island in the early 18th century. The island's history is intertwined with tales of buried treasure. In 1750, the crew of a Spanish galleon, the Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, mutinied and hid 55 chests of silver coins on the island. Though portions of the treasure were later recovered, rumors persist of more pirate gold waiting to be discovered.Today, Norman Island is a popular destination for snorkeling and diving. The island features three water-level caves at the base of cliffs, perfect for underwater exploration. The calm, clear waters surrounding the caves teem with marine life, offering snorkelers a chance to see yellowtail snapper, puffer fish, and more. Divers can explore the depths of Spyglass Wall, a beginner-friendly dive site with depths ranging from 20 to 60 feet.Visitors can also relax on the island's beaches, hike its scenic trails, and enjoy the views from the helicopter pad. Pirate's Bight, a beachfront restaurant and bar, offers classic fare, cocktails, and a laid-back atmosphere.