Tortola

Relax and enjoy some time at Long Bay Beach and savour the laid back Caribbean atmosphere. Long Bay Beef Beach is located in a more remote part of the island and remains untouched. It’s ideal for those who are happy to kick off their shoes and lay down a towel on the sand and soak up the sun.

Upon arrival, you’ll have around 2 ½ hours to spend on the beach. Soak up the sun, swim in the sea and simply relax in true Caribbean style.

After your stay, you’ll meet back with your driver at the agreed time for the return transfer to the ship.

Essential information

This excursion operates by island bus or minibus. Long Bay Beach has no facilities and there are no sunchairs or umbrellas available. There is a shuttle service to take you to toilet and changing facilities which are located around 3 minute’s drive away at a small local airport terminal. Drinks and snacks are also available in this area, US Dollars are required, or you may prefer to take your own refreshments. Passengers are reminded to wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. Passengers will be required to place towels on the sand. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities. The mode of transportation in Tortola varies from open-sided island buses to minibuses. The open-sided island style buses have narrow seating and high steps to negotiate on to and off the bus. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to P&O Cruises.

Joining your motor launch, you’ll take a delightful cruise among the archipelago of islands that make up the British Virgin Islands.

You’ll view the southern shoreline of Tortola and the small islands of Salt, Peter and Norman, famous for their colourful history of pirates, hideaways and buccaneers. There’s time to enjoy a refreshing fruit or rum punch before arriving at Soper’s Hole, the first landing place for Europeans travelling to these islands.

Leaving your boat, discover the delights of Pusser’s Landing, a vibrant waterside area full of character and history. Browse the quaint boutiques for souvenirs or mementos or perhaps sample a famous Pusser’s rum punch.

Your tour continues by bus along the north shore of Tortola, passing through small villages before ascending the Ridge Road. Take in the spectacular views before descending back to Road Town and your waiting ship.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by island minibus or minibus and boat. The mode of transportation in Tortola varies from open-sided island buses to minibuses. The open-sided island style buses have narrow seating and high steps to negotiate on to and off the bus. This tour involves very little walking, but passengers must be able to negotiate the steps.

This is an ideal opportunity for those who want to try something new and exciting.

You’ll be given approximately 1 hour of instruction by a certified scuba instructor at the beach, before heading out into the ocean to demonstrate your new found skills and experience the exhilaration of scuba diving in the Caribbean.

Enjoy a sense of freedom as you discover underwater marine life without the restriction of staying on the water’s surface.

Essential information

This excursion will operate on foot and by boat. The course is for non-certified divers. The tour duration is dependent on participants and local sea conditions. A PADI medical questionnaire must be completed. This tour is accompanied by a Dive Master and includes all equipment and transportation. Children may not participate. Those with asthma, diabetes, heart conditions, high blood pressure or other medical conditions may not be able to participate. The dive boat has a marine head toilet facility.

Embark on a boat ride to White Bay on the beautiful island of Jost Van Dyke. The island is a haven for visitors who enjoy the white sandy beaches, warm waters and a relaxed atmosphere.

Upon arrival, you’ll have some free time to enjoy at your leisure. Relax on a beach chair, stroll along the white sands or take a refreshing dip in the glistening Caribbean Sea.

During your stay, a soft drink refreshment or beer and a light snack will be available at the Oceans 7 Beach Bar.

At the end of your stay, the return boat ride will offer splendid views, as you make your way back to Tortola.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by boat and on foot. Children under the age of 5 may not participate. The boat ride to Jost Van Dyke is around 1 hour. Passengers will be transferred from the boat to White Bay by landing craft and there are some steps to negotiate. Passengers may also be required to wade ankle deep in the water. Depending on sea swells, an alternative anchorage may be used. Please remember your swimwear, sunscreen and towel. Water shoes are advisable. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities.

Embark on a scenic drive from Road Town, stopping en route to enjoy the surrounding views.

Your journey continues to Paraquita Bay, the location of the Community College and Marine Studies Centre that houses the island’s Maritime Museum. The small Museum is dedicated to the preservation of the maritime heritage of the Virgin Islands. You’ll see a variety of displays, including a collection of unique tools used in the early days of ship building and artefacts recovered from the wreck of the royal mail steamer ‘Rhone’. A short guided tour will provide interesting facts on a maritime history that dates back to the 18th century.

Afterwards, your journey will continue along the coast, taking in views of Long Bay Beach and Beef Island. A photo stop will also be made for you to admire the Great Camanoe and Marina Cay, before heading back to Road Town.

During your tour, a fruit smoothie refreshment will be served at a local café.

Essential information

This tour will operate by island bus or minibus and on foot. There are approximately 19 steps to reach the Museum. A lift is available to use, however this cannot always be guaranteed. This tour involves around 30 minutes of walking and standing at the Maritime Museum. Flat, comfortable shoes are recommended. The mode of transportation in Tortola varies from open-sided island buses to minibuses. The open-sided island style buses have narrow seating and high steps to negotiate on to and off the bus.

Embark on a scenic drive along the island’s Ridge Road to Sage Mountain National Park. The Park encompasses the highest point of a ridge running along the spine of Tortola and offers spectacular views.

Upon arrival, enjoy a soft drink refreshment before taking a guided walk along one of the nature trails, lined with mahogany trees and fragrant plants. Look out for a variety of tropical trees and plants, some indigenous to Tortola.

Afterwards, you’ll head down to Cane Garden Bay, one of the island’s most popular beaches. Relax in the sun or swim in the crystal clear Atlantic waters; the time is yours to enjoy as you please, before heading back to Road Town and the ship.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by island minibus or minibus and on foot. Children under 6 may not participate. The walk at Sage Mountain takes around 1 hour. Due to the rough, uneven and sometimes wet ground this tour carries an extensive walking symbol; however the walk itself is at a fairly leisurely pace. The trails can become muddy at times. Flat, non slip closed-toe walking shoes are essential. Those without the correct footwear will be declined from taking part. Please remember to wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. A bottle of water is advised. This tour may be cancelled following heavy rainfall. The transport in Tortola varies from open-sided island buses to minibuses. The open-sided island buses have narrow seating and high steps to negotiate on to and off the bus. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to P&O Cruises.

From Road Town you’ll enjoy a scenic drive along the coastal road, towards the east of the island. Ascending the hills via the Ridge Road, you’ll see some stunning views, and stop en route for a photo opportunity, before heading to Skyworld.

Skyworld is the highest point accessible by vehicle on the island, and offers dramatic panoramic views. Enjoy a refreshing drink and browse in the small souvenir shop, whilst being surrounded by wonderful scenery.

From here, your route will continue along the ridge of the island before descending to the north shore, passing through several small fishing hamlets. You’ll see the Bombas Shack, home of the infamous full moon parties, before crossing the island at its narrowest point.

Your final stop, before returning along the south shore of Tortola back to Road Town, will be at Pusser’s Landing – an attractive little marina.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by minibus or coach. Passengers must be able to negotiate steps onto and off the minibus. There are approximately 12 steps to reach the viewing platform at Skyworld and some rough and uneven ground, however walking on this tour is limited.

Plunge into the waters of Tortola for an incredible dive experience.

Your Dive Instructor will guide you on a two-tank dive to the most famous wreck in the Caribbean, the RMS Rhone. Explore the wreck and discover an abundance of marine life.

Essential information

This excursion will operate on foot and by boat. To participate in a certified dive you must hold a PADI Open Water Scuba certification or BSAC Ocean Diver certification. Divers with a PADI Junior Open Water or a PADI Scuba Dive rating cannot be accepted due to the depth limits imposed. In line with the sports-diving industry we advise divers to undertake a refresher course if they have not been diving within the last 6 months. You must be aged 15 or over, carry your dive certification card with you, and your diving log or proof of a recently completed refresher course. If you are a certified diver but unable to meet our requirements we advise taking the Discover Scuba tour. The tour duration is dependent on both divers and local conditions, so a return time cannot be confirmed. An alternative dive site may be used on the day. Dive equipment includes 2 tanks, weights, BC, regulator, mask, fins and snorkel. Wetsuits may be hired at extra cost. Those with asthma, diabetes, heart problems, epilepsy or sinus problems may be declined from the dive. All participants must complete a PADI medical questionnaire.

Setting off from Road Town you’ll head east ascending the hills via the Ridge Road and on to Skyworld, the highest point accessible by vehicle on the island. Here you’ll enjoy a brief stop to take in the dramatic panoramic views.

Your drive will continue, descending back to sea level and on to Cane Garden Bay Beach, the islands favourite beach. During your visit the time is yours to spend as you please, sit back and relax on a sunbed or take a dip in the inviting Caribbean sea.

During your stay, a delicious island-style buffet lunch will be available at a selected beach-side restaurant, accompanied by fruit or rum punch.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by island minibus or minibus and on foot. There are around 12 steps to reach the viewing platform at Skyworld. Additional drinks can be purchased from one of the bars. Please refrain from drinking alcohol prior to swimming activities. US Dollars are accepted for purchases. Restroom and changing facilities are limited. Please wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. Cane Garden Bay is a popular beach and can become busy. The mode of transportation in Tortola varies from open-sided island buses to minibuses. The open-sided island style buses have narrow seating and high steps to negotiate on to and off the bus. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that offer watersports. These are provided by parties unconnected to P&O Cruises.

Take a drive through the bustling capital of Road Town and up to Lower Estate. Your route will continue to Great Mountain along the Ridge Road, where you’ll find stunning views of the surrounding BVI islands. The white shores and myriad of blue and green waters are a photographer’s delight. Wend your way to Cane Garden Bay, where you can enjoy the beautiful scenery and browse Olivia’s Corner Store for some unique gift items.

Afterwards, take the winding picturesque route past Carrot Bay and Capoons Bay leading to Pusser’s Landing. Peruse the quaint boutiques and shops and capture pictures of this colourful marina. Alternatively, you may like to indulge in a famous ‘Pusser’s Punch’ at a nearby bar or simply relax and watch the world go by.

After your time at Pusser’s Landing, you’ll return to the ship via the scenic Sir Francis Drake’s Highway.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by island bus or mini bus and on foot. To derive full enjoyment from this tour, some walking is required. The mode of transportation in Tortola varies from open-sided island buses to minibuses. The open-sided island style buses have narrow seating and high steps to negotiate on to and off the bus.

Traverse one of the island’s highest peaks along the Ridge Road to capture stunning views over Tortola and its surrounding islands, which pepper the blue ocean with their golden surrounds.

From Road Town, your scenic drive takes you up to Fort Hill along the Ridge Road passing the villages of Belle Vue, Long Trench and Fahie Hill.

Your next stop will be Cane Garden Bay, the most popular beach on the island, with its picturesque white sands and shady palms. Considered to be one of Tortola's finest beaches; you can decide for yourself as you spend some time here. Swim in the crystal clear waters, stroll along the spectacular sandy beach, or just relax and enjoy the scenery.

Your return journey will take you along another scenic route, via Doty High Road and Joe's Hill, offering bird's-eye views of Road Town Harbour.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by island bus and minibus. Toilet and changing facilities are limited. Passengers are reminded to wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. The mode of transportation in Tortola varies from open-sided island buses to minibuses. The open-sided island style buses have narrow seating and high steps to negotiate on to and off the bus. This tour involves very little walking but passengers must be able to negotiate some steps.

Enjoy a boat ride across the Sir Francis Drake Channel to Norman Island, where you’ll snorkel the Caves or the Indians.

After instruction and a safety brief from your dive instructor, don your snorkel gear and take to the Caribbean waters, straight from the boat. Legend plays a large part in the history of Norman Island with tales of pirates and treasure, and is believed to have inspired the Robert Louis Stevenson classic, ‘Treasure Island’. During your snorkel experience, look out for corals and sponges and an abundance of colourful tropical fish.

Depending on weather conditions, Norman Island may be replaced with Cooper Island, where you’ll also enjoy some great snorkelling at Chromis Reef.

Essential information

This excursion will operate on foot and by dive boat. Children under the age of 10 may not participate. This excursion is only suitable for those in good physical condition. All participants must be competent swimmers. Snorkel equipment is included. Please wear swimwear and take a towel and sun protection. Water shoes are advisable. The dive boat has a marine head toilet facility. This tour is weather dependent and may be subject to cancellation. Sea conditions may not always allow anchorage at Norman Island and may be replaced with Cooper Island (Chromis Reef).

Take a 40-minute motor-launch crossing to the island of Virgin Gorda, named the ‘Fat Virgin’ by Columbus in 1493.

After a short bus ride, you’ll reach the 500 yard trail taking you down to the stunning beaches. The rock formations were created by volcanic activity resulting in huge boulders being stacked upon one another, which now form small grottos and natural pools. The pools and ocean bed are carpeted with the softest, whitest sand - a natural phenomenon.

A refreshing drink will be served before your return boat ride to Tortola.

Essential information

This excursion will operate by boat, island bus or minibus and on foot. Children under the age of 3 may not participate. This tour is only for those in good physical condition and competent swimmers, due to a possible strong undertow. The ferry transfer may be choppy. The trail to/from the first beach is rocky, uneven and inclined. The trail to access the second beach is very tight in places with ladders and small bridges to climb; you will get wet, often up to your knees. Water or flat closed toe shoes with a good grip are essential. Please wear swimwear, take a towel and sunscreen. Virgin Gorda is popular and can become crowded. Sunchairs are not available and there is limited shade on the beach. The land transport may vary from open-sided island buses to minibuses. The island buses have narrow seating and high steps on to and off the bus. There may be independent suppliers on the beach that offer watersports or equipment. These are provided by parties unconnected to P&O Cruises.

Setting sail from Road Town, you’ll cross the Sir Francis Drake Channel towards one of the nearby islands. Enjoy hearing tales of this historic waterway as you make your way to the snorkel stop at Peter or Norman Island.

As you anchor off shore, experience the beauty of the deep with some great snorkelling, where colourful schools of Yellow Tails and Sergeant Majors can be seen amongst the varied coral formations. If snorkelling is not for you, you can simply swim in the crystal clear waters or relax on deck.

Afterwards, you’ll continue to a beach to enjoy some more relaxation, snorkelling or swimming time.

During your tour, refreshing fruit punch will be served on board, with rum punch available on the return.

Essential information

This excursion operates will operate by island minibus or minibus, boat and on foot. Children under the age of 5 may not participate. The use of the catamaran sails cannot always be guaranteed. Snorkel equipment is included (not fins). Snorkel participants must be over the age of 8 and competent swimmers. Please remember your swimwear, sunscreen and towel. Water shoes are advisable. At the beach location, the sand may be hard shingle with some rocky areas to negotiate when entering the water. Depending on sea swells, an alternative anchorage may be used. Please refrain from drinking alcoholic beverages prior to any swimming activities. The mode of transportation in Tortola varies from open-sided island buses to minibuses. The open-sided island style buses have narrow seating and high steps to negotiate on to and off the bus.