Plan a CruiseJost Van Dyke Island Cruise Port Guide
Jost Van Dyke is one of the smaller British Virgin Islands, roughly 8 square kilometers, known for its relaxed atmosphere and famous beach bars. Ships tender passengers ashore, with a short 10-minute walk from the pier to the heart of Great Harbour, the main town. This island only had electricity introduced in 1991, retaining much of its natural charm. Great Harbour is lined with small bars and restaurants, including the iconic Foxy's Bar, a popular spot since the late 1960s, which sees thousands of revelers on New Year's Eve (locally called "Old Year's Night"). Another renowned destination is the Soggy Dollar Bar in White Bay, famous as the birthplace of the "Painkiller" cocktail. The bar gets its name from the common practice of boaters anchoring beyond a reef, swimming to shore, and paying with wet money. The island is home to just a few hundred residents and is celebrated for its lobster, often reputed as the best in the Caribbean.
Getting Around from the Port
Upon tendering ashore, it's an easy 10-minute walk from the pier to Great Harbour town center. Walking is generally the easiest way to get around the island's various population centers, bays, and beaches. However, be aware that Jost Van Dyke is very hilly and can become muddy, especially after rain, which might pose challenges for those with mobility issues. While taxi services are available, they operate erratically, so it’s crucial to plan ahead and not rely on immediate service. A popular and scenic walk is from the main "town" in Great Harbour over the hill to White Bay, offering beautiful views stretching from Tortola to St. John and St. Thomas in the distance. This path is rocky, so wearing appropriate shoes is strongly advised; attempting it barefoot is often regretted halfway through.
Attractions and Activities
- Explore Great Harbour: Start your visit in Great Harbour, where you'll find a strip of small bars and restaurants. Don't miss the legendary Foxy's Bar, a Caribbean institution since the late 1960s. Enjoy the laid-back vibe and perhaps a rum concoction on a terrace.
- Hike to White Bay & Soggy Dollar Bar: Take the scenic walk from Great Harbour over the hill to White Bay. This beautiful, though rocky, path offers stunning panoramic views. Once in White Bay, relax at the famous Soggy Dollar Bar, home of the Painkiller cocktail. Experience its unique tradition of paying with wet money after swimming ashore. Remember to wear sturdy shoes for the walk.
- Water Activities: For adventure seekers, JVD Scuba offers various ecotours, kayak rentals, and dive excursions, allowing you to explore the island's underwater beauty.
- Savor Local Cuisine: Be sure to try Jost Van Dyke's famous lobster, often considered the best in the Caribbean, available at local restaurants.
Dining & Shopping
The beach strip along Great Harbour is dotted with small bars and restaurants, providing plenty of options for a meal or a drink. Foxy's Bar in Great Harbour and the Soggy Dollar Bar in White Bay are must-visit spots, both offering a lively atmosphere and local drinks. Dining here means you can sample Jost Van Dyke's renowned lobster, often paired with a refreshing rum concoction. Beyond the bars and restaurants, specific shopping opportunities are limited, focusing more on local souvenirs and beachwear usually found within the bar establishments.
Safety
The island is hilly and its paths can become muddy and slippery after rain, so exercise caution when walking. The scenic walk between Great Harbour and White Bay, in particular, has rocky terrain, making comfortable, sturdy shoes essential to prevent discomfort or injury. Taxi services are known to be unreliable and erratic; if you plan to use them, ensure you make arrangements well in advance.