Plan a CruisePeter Island Cruise Port Guide
Peter Island is a private island and serves as a tender port for cruise ships visiting the British Virgin Islands. It is the largest private island in the BVI and the fifth largest among the 60 islands, quays, and exposed reefs that make up the territory. The island was owned by the Amway Corporation from 1978 until 2001, when full ownership was transferred to the Van Andel family, co-owners of Amway.
This destination is largely undeveloped, offering a natural escape with hiking and biking trails to explore its indigenous tropical flora and fauna. Its beaches provide diverse views, facing the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Due to its private nature, independent exploration and access to facilities beyond what is arranged by your cruise line or the island's single resort are very limited.
Getting Around from the Port
As Peter Island is a private island, independent transport options are extremely restricted. There is no public transportation, taxi service, or car rental available for cruise passengers. All transportation on the island will typically be arranged directly by your cruise line or through the Peter Island Resort, should you have access. Walking will be limited to designated areas near the tender drop-off point and any areas accessible via organized tours.
Attractions and Activities
Given the private and undeveloped nature of Peter Island, independent excursions are not typically feasible. Most activities will be organized by your cruise line or the Peter Island Resort, which is the island's only hotel.
- Peter Island Resort Experience: The 52-room Peter Island Resort is highly regarded, listed in Conde Nast Traveler’s “Gold List.” Cruise lines often arrange day passes or specific tours that grant access to the resort's private beaches, pools, and perhaps dining facilities. This is generally the primary way to experience the island's amenities. Specific fees and travel times would be communicated by your cruise line.
- Hiking and Biking on Trails: The island features various undeveloped hiking and biking trails. These provide an opportunity to explore the local tropical flora and fauna. Access to these trails and rental of bicycles, if available, would typically be arranged through your cruise line or the Peter Island Resort as part of an organized activity.
- Beach Relaxation: Peter Island offers beaches facing different bodies of water—the Atlantic Ocean, the Caribbean Sea, and the Sir Francis Drake Channel. Enjoying a day at one of these pristine beaches is a key activity. Access to specific beaches is usually facilitated through organized resort visits or cruise-sponsored beach excursions.
Dining & Shopping
Dining and shopping options on Peter Island are very limited due to its private status. The only establishment is the Peter Island Resort. Any dining or shopping opportunities would likely be confined to what is available through the resort, assuming cruise passengers are granted access via a day pass or organized tour. There are no independent restaurants, cafes, markets, or souvenir shops accessible to the general cruise passenger.
Safety
Peter Island is generally considered a safe destination for cruise passengers. As it is a private island, access is controlled, and crime is not a typical concern. Standard precautions for sun exposure and hydration in a tropical climate are always advised.