Silversea’s World Cruise: First Stop is Tortola, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands

Silversea’s World Cruise: First Stop is Tortola, Virgin Gorda, British Virgin Islands, arriving Jan. 10, after departing Ft. Lauderdale Jan. 6, 2012. Tortola, the capital of BVI, is also the largest of the British Virgin Islands and offers everything from water sports to shopping, activities and dining. If you were to get married in the British Virgin Islands, this is where you would obtain your marriage license.

The cruise ship will dock at Road Harbour’s pier, which is about a 10-minute walk from most things in Road Harbor, considered Tortola’s only “town.”  If you prefer, taxis are available (drivers are English-speaking) at the end of the long pier.

For those looking to do some shopping, be sure to check out the shops on Main Street. Pusser’s Company Store is well known, famous for its rum, and features a popular bar and store with upscale gifts. Or try Crafts Alive, an open-air market, or the Sunny Caribbee Spice Company, which offers spices, seasonings, teas, condiments and hand-made crafts.

For dining on the island, consider Pusser’s Landing (right next to the Company Store) or Cappricio Mare, an Italian bistro. Or, take a trip to the opposite shore (you’ll need a taxi, it’s several miles) and sample the cuisine at Mrs. Scatliffe’s, a West Indian restaurant in Carrot Bay.

There are, of course, plenty of outdoor activities in Tortola — white-sand beaches, diving, deep-sea fishing, or the exploration of ancient ruins. You can also take advantage of the ferry rides, which will show you even more of the BVI.  Norman Island, Jost Van Dyke, Peter Island, Marina Cay and Virgin Gorda are all possible day trips when in port at Tortola, and Silversea plans a full day there, 8 a.m.to 5 p.m. There is lots of time to see what the island, and those that surround it, have to offer!