Awaiting Your Return From Shore |
The islands were discovered by
Columbus in 1493 and remained in Spanish hands until the arrival of Sir
Francis Drake in 1595, when he sailed through the channel south of Tortola
that bears his name. After conflicts with the Spanish and the Dutch, Britain
annexed the islands in 1672. Tortola became notorious as the haunts of
buccaneers, providing the inspiration for Robert Louis Stevenson's Treasure
Island.
Approximately 80% of the
British Virgin Islands' population lives in Road Town on Tortola. It is the
largest of the islands, and Road Town is the administrative center of the
group.
Handsome yachts ply the usually placid waters of Sir Francis Drake
Channel, while vacationers bask on the inviting beaches.
Pier Information. The ship is scheduled to
dock in Road Town. The town center is within walking distance. |
Shopping. Most of the shops are on Main
Street in Road Town. You will find a variety of stores. Pusser's Company
Store, a mahogany-trimmed bar accented with many fine nautical
artifacts, sells T-shirts, postcards and upmarket gift items. Pusser's
Rum is one of the best-selling items. The local currency is the U.S.
dollar. |
Cuisine. Fish dishes are an excellent choice.
Snapper, dolphin, grouper, tuna and swordfish figure prominently on most
menus. There are also restaurants that serve both West Indian and East
Indian specialties as well as pubs offering British fare. |
Other Sights
Tortola is noted for its beautiful beaches. The best ones are along the
north coast. The most popular ones are Smugglers Cove and Apple Bay.
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Awaiting Your Return
From Shore |
Complimentary
Spirits Await |
Return to Your
Suite and Sail Away to The Next Adventure |
Entertainment
and Dancing Await You |