Where Do the Cruise Ships Dock in Tortola?

By Alice Nichols

If you’re planning a trip to Tortola, one of the British Virgin Islands, you may be wondering where the cruise ships dock. Tortola is a popular destination for many cruise lines, and there are several ports of call available.

Port Purcell

Port Purcell is the main port in Tortola and is located on the southern coast of the island. It is a deep-water port that can accommodate large cruise ships.

The port is also used for cargo and freight shipments. When your ship docks at Port Purcell, you will have easy access to Road Town, the capital city of Tortola.

Pros:

  • Convenient location
  • Easy access to Road Town
  • Able to accommodate large ships

Cons:

  • May be crowded with multiple ships in port
  • No beach or tourist attractions within walking distance

Road Town Cruise Ship Dock

The Road Town Cruise Ship Dock is located in downtown Road Town and is within walking distance of many shops and restaurants. This port can accommodate smaller cruise ships that cannot dock at Port Purcell.

Pros:

  • Walking distance to shops and restaurants in Road Town
  • Able to accommodate smaller ships
  • Nearby taxi stands for easy transportation around the island

Cons:

  • No beach or tourist attractions within walking distance
  • Limited facilities at the dock itself

Soper’s Hole Marina & Ferry Terminal

Soper’s Hole Marina & Ferry Terminal is located on the west end of Tortola and is primarily used for ferry transportation to other islands in the British Virgin Islands. However, some smaller cruise ships may also dock here.

Pros:

  • Beautiful location with views of the ocean and nearby islands
  • Nearby shops and restaurants
  • Able to accommodate smaller ships

Cons:

  • No beach or tourist attractions within walking distance
  • Limited facilities at the dock itself
  • Frequent ferry traffic may cause congestion at the port

BVI Cruise Ship Dock

The BVI Cruise Ship Dock is located on the eastern end of Tortola and is primarily used for private yachts and smaller cruise ships.

Pros:

  • Nearby shops and restaurants in nearby East End Village
  • Able to accommodate smaller ships and private yachts
  • Less crowded than other ports of call in Tortola

Cons:

  • No beach or tourist attractions within walking distance
  • Limited facilities at the dock itself
  • Slightly further away from popular tourist destinations on Tortola, such as Road Town and Cane Garden Bay.

In conclusion, there are several ports of call for cruise ships in Tortola. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages depending on what you’re looking for. Whether you want easy access to shops and restaurants or a beautiful view of the ocean, there’s a port that will meet your needs.