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Island Hopping Tortola to Virgin Gorda St. Thomas to St. John Getting to Jost van Dyke
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Virgin Islands Ferry Routes
The below selection of main routes are in order of popularity. Please note that in some cases islands have multiple departure locations (harbors), which you can read about further down this page.
Taking an international flight to St. Thomas or Tortola is the easiest way to start your Virgin Island-hopping trip within the British and United States Virgin Islands. The Westernmost Island within the US Virgin Islands in St. Thomas from where it is easy to take a Virgin Islands Ferry and island hop to other islands within the archipelago.
Two harbors, Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie, provide several transfers to St. John (US), Tortola and Virgin Gorda (BVI) from St. Thomas.
The Southernmost island within the US Virgin Islands is St. Croix , and is a bit more difficult to reach. It has a limited boat and seaplane service from Charlotte Amalie to Christiansted.
St. John - The most central island in the US Virgin Islands in St. John and it offers ferry trips to St. Thomas, Jost van Dyke and Tortola from Cruz Bay harbour. St. Thomas - The Westernmost island within the US Virgin Islands, host to the largest international airport in the region and two harbors; Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook. From St. Thomas departures to St. John, Jost van Dyke, Tortola, Virgin Gorda and Anegada are possible. St. Croix - Due to St. Croix being a bit further from the other US Virgin Islands and it having its own airport many opt for a domestic (seaplane) flight. However, there have been some recent developments welcoming a 2x weekly fast ferry service from Charlotte Amelie to St Croix and back.
Tortola - Being the most central island in the British Virgin Islands Tortola provides three harbours on the west, middle and east part of the island. Depending on where you’d like to go to the British or US Virgin Islands, the harbours in West End, Road Town and Beef Island will provide you with a viable option to do so. Virgin Gorda - This small but gorgeous island located on the Eastern side of the British Virgin Islands with its main harbor in Spanish Town. From Virgin Gorda, it is quite easy to island hop to other islands such as Tortola and St. Thomas. Anegada - This Northern British Island has one main harbour and can be reached from Virgin Gorda and Tortola on certain days throughout the week, seasonally. Jost van Dyke - This pristine island can only be reached from two harbours being Cruz Bay on St. John and West End Harbor on Tortola.
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Food Boat Tour – Lime Out, Pizza Pi & Lovango Beach Club
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- Hour Glass Duration: 8 Hours
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Discover the Best Food & Snorkeling & Island Hopping in the Virgins Islands
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Today is all about having fun and meeting new friends in a small group setting. Experience the beautiful scenery from the water, as we Island Hop, Snorkel and eat our way through the crystal clear waters of the US Virgin Islands.
USVI Island Hop is strictly for those who want to experience everything that the US Virgin Islands is famous for!!
9:00am departure from St. Thomas
9:30am pick up in St. John
** Note: Snorkel at Christmas Cove & Lovango Cay, complimentary snorkel equipment on board is included **
- Cruise along the Northern Shore of St. John and give you a water based tour of the beautiful beaches and Cays as we point out historical places of interest and celebrities homes.
- Enjoy Lunch Stop at Lime Out St John (taco boat) in Coral Bay (lunch not included in price)
- Water tour of the infamous Little St. James Island.
- Snorkel stop at the marine reserve located at Christmas Cove, Great St. James Island
- Cheese or Pepperoni Pizza (included in the price of the trip) from Pizza Pi St Thomas (pizza boat)
- Last stop of the Day is Lovango Cay. You have a choice of going ashore to enjoy the Sand Pit (bar & restaurant), shops or snorkel the colorful reef from the boat.
**Don’t want to snorkel? – No problem. Just hang out on a floatie in the beautiful gin clear water off the back of the boat or stay on board and enjoy drinks from the full open bar.**
4:30pm – return to Cruz Bay, St. John
5:00pm – Return to St.Thomas
- USCG Master Licensed Captain
- USCG Certified Mate
- Well stocked open bar including: beer, alcohol, soda, water & mixers
- Cheese & Peperoni Pizza from Pizza Pi
- Use of snorkel equipment, floats, Life jackets and rafts.
Does not include:
- Lunch at Lime Out or Drinks or Shots from Pizza Pi.
- Food or Drinks at Lovango
- 20% Crew Gratuity
*Must meet minimum of 6 guests to operate this trip.
*Itinerary subject to change based on weather and sea conditions.
- Guests MUST be comfortable in the water.
- We include the use of life jackets, noodles, Floaties and Rafts to help non-swimmers.
- This trip is operated on our: 42′ power boats
- Lovango Beach Club is open from mid-December until mid-July. If Lovango Beach Club is closed this will be a snorkel stop only.
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Circle the Island of St. John (Lunch at Lime Out)
The best way to explore St. John is from the water! Spend your day with one of the world’s most picturesque islands always in view. This trip snorkels reefs only accessible by boat around St. John and inside the Virgin Islands National Park.
- Users 12 Guests Max
- Hour Glass 6 Hours
Turtles, Pizza & Shipwreck Tour
Enjoy a beautiful sail on a Luxury Sailing Catamaran along the beautiful Northern shore of St. John. We will stop in Maho Bay to swim with the resident sea turtles and then we will snorkel a shipwreck and enjoy pizza from Pizza Pi in Christmas Cove, Great St. James Island.
Balicasag Island Tour & Virgin Island Bohol: Complete Guide
Jackson Groves
Posted on Last updated: June 23, 2023
Categories PHILIPPINES
Bohol is an amazing island with many beautiful beaches, caves, and waterfalls to explore. However, a day of island hopping to the nearby islands is also a great way to spend your time on Bohol. For $10 USD I was able to enjoy a 6-hour day trip tour to both Virgin Island Bohol and Balicasag Island.
The tour begins early in the morning as you go out looking for spinner dolphins. We were lucky enough to find them as they jumped alongside the boat! We then headed to Balicasag Island as the next stop on the tour.
It was an amazing snorkeling spot and there were so many turtles, fish and beautiful corals. The final stop of the tour was to visit Virgin Island, which is a giant sandbar and was such a unique spot. I do highly recommend this tour from Bohol and it is a full day of action!
Book this tour online : If you want to book this tour online in advance you can check the rates and availability of the top-rated tour by Clicking Here .
Table of Contents
BALICASAG ISLAND TOUR WITH VIRGIN ISLAND AND DOLPHINS INCLUDED
We booked our tour from Alona Beach with a local boat driver but you can also book online here . The tour got started just after sunrise and we set out with quite a few other boats to look for the spinner dolphins.
It was great to be out on the boat so early and the water was really calm. It wasn’t long before the spinner dolphins came and began playing near our boat. It was a great start to the Balicasag Island tour and a real spectacle to see these magnificent creatures playing in the wild!
BALICASAG ISLAND
The next stop was a short trip over to Balicasag Island. By now the sun was shining strongly and we were ready to get in the blue water. We arrived at Balicasag and we could already see the coral from the boat that is how clear the water is.
Balicasag Island is a very small island with amazing snorkeling. The water is crystal clear and there were plenty of turtles swimming amongst the coral.
One of the turtles we swam with was enormous. Use my friend Jorden as a scale. Even having lived in Hawaii for two years I never saw a turtle quite that big. There is a huge drop-off shelf that is great to check out as the fish swim past in schools.
VIRGIN ISLAND BOHOL
We enjoyed a mango smoothie at Balicasag Island before getting back onto our wooden motorboat and heading towards Virgin Island Bohol. I call it Virgin Island Bohol as it is not to be confused with the U.S. Virgin Islands. I couldn’t help but find myself mesmerized by the crystal clear water and the seaweed below. It almost looked as if we were floating on thin air.
Arriving at Virgin Island Bohol we trudged through the muddy sand trying not to lose our flip-flops. We were greeted by many hard-working vendors selling pearls, fresh seafood they were offering to cook and other jewelry.
I was more interested in the barren sand-flats and the boats that were seemingly waiting for the tide to rescue them from the midday drought. We also found a couple of stranded starfish/sea stars, which made for a great subject but we did feel a little bad leaving them there to potentially dry out.
Virgin Island Bohol is not necessarily a relaxing hangout for beers nor is it a great spot for adventuring. It is an interesting spot but I am still not quite sure what the main attraction is at this sandbar other than the sandbar itself. That didn’t stop our curious minds from a little exploring and we enjoyed ourselves nonetheless. Here are the photos from our stop at Virgin Island Bohol.
WHERE TO STAY ON BOHOL
Save money in Bohol by staying at an Airbnb! Get a FREE $40 Airbnb Coupon by using my code when you book! I use Airbnb on about half of my travels and find you always get more value than a hotel.
Read my full blog post: BEST AREA TO STAY IN BOHOL
Bohol Beach Club – Luxury: It’s everything you would expect from a luxury resort in a tropical location. It’s beachside with amazing pools, bars, and chill-out areas. Right near the restaurants, bars, and action of Alona Beach but hidden away so that you can relax after a day of island-hopping or adventures.
Venezia Suites – Value: The Venezia Suits present the best value on Bohol. If you are looking for luxury but only want to spend mid-range often you need to get lucky. Venezia will hook you up with a beautiful suite that comes with a pool and living space. It’s a damn good deal and located right near all the action of Panglao so you are in a good spot.
HM & B Backpackers Inn : As a backpacker generally you check the price, location, and cleanliness. HM & B ticks all those boxes as one of the cheapest hostels near Alona Beach but also maintains good reviews, cleanliness and is pretty cheap compared to everything else near Alona Beach.
If you want to have a look for yourself you can click here to jump over to Booking.com to check out all of the accommodation options for Bohol.
ARE YOU KEEPING UP WITH MY BOHOL SERIES
I’ve been to Bohol twice and both times I explored extensively on my motorbike to the popular tourist spots and to locations many people have never heard of. I document it all in my BOHOL TRAVEL GUIDE: 27 Awesome Things To Do
Are you a waterfall chaser? I’ve put together a list of My Favorite Waterfalls and Cave Pools on Bohol with detailed directions and photos.
Maybe you are an adrenaline junkie like me and want to find out the Best Cliff Jumping spots on Bohol .
The popular tourist area where most people stay is Panglao Island. I’ve put together a blog post guide about the Best Things to do on Panglao Island
If you aren’t quite sure whether you want to stay on Panglao Island or venture north to Anda, I’ve written a blog post about the Best Places to Stay on Bohol , which helps you decide what region is best for you depending on your preferences.
One of the best activities on Bohol is the island-hopping to Balicasag and Virgin Island. I’ve put together a guide with everything you need to know about the adventure here: Virgin Island and Balicasag Island Hopping Tour Review
Panglao Island – citex0000030
Wednesday 12th of May 2021
[…] Balicasag Island is a small island with amazing water clarity and coral gardens for snorkeling. There were plenty of turtles swimming amongst the coral and swarms of colorful fish. One of the turtles we swam with was enormous. A huge wall drops off about fifty meters from the shore, which was a fun spot to do some free-diving exploration. […]
3 Panglao Beaches Worth Visiting In The Philippines - Ms Blissness
Wednesday 31st of July 2019
[…] are also many tour hawkers on the beach selling day tours to the popular Balicasag island and Pamilacan island. The island beaches of Panglao are also popular tourist attractions and Alona […]
Nicole Sawada
Wednesday 12th of September 2018
Are all the photos taken with your GoPro or your DSLR?! They are amazing!
Sunday 20th of May 2018
Hi Jackson,
Which tour company did you book this activity from? Do you have any recommendations?
Virgin Island Bantayan In Cebu – Visitor’s Guide
A visit to Virgin Island Bantayan is one of the best day trips you can do from Bantayan Island in North Cebu.
Boasting crystal clear waters, cliff jumping, beach bars, and coastal boardwalks, this is one of the most beautiful places not to be missed on your itinerary.
I have put together this easy-to-follow island hopping guide for Virgin Island including how to get here, how much it costs, and what to expect on the tour!
Table of Contents
WHERE TO BOOK A VIRGIN ISLAND BANTAYAN TOUR?
Virgin Island Bantayan, also known as Sillon Island, is best visited as a day trip from Bantayan Island and can be easily organized through the reception of your accommodation or at one of the tour desks dotted around the main town of Santa Fe.
Virgin Island Cebu is a short 30-minute boat ride from Kota Beach on the east coast of Bantayan Island.
The Bantayan Island Hopping tour includes visiting Virgin Island and Balidbid Lagoon on Bantayan Island before returning to Kota Beach in Santa Fe.
It’s up to you how long you want to spend on the island, you have to communicate with the captain of your boat at the beginning of the tour.
To get an idea, my friends and I spent around 3 hours on the island and 1 hour at Balidbid Lagoon and felt this was a good amount of time to enjoy both locations.
Though if you love beach bumming, you could easily spend a full day on the island.
HOW MUCH IS BANTAYAN ISLAND HOPPING
The total cost for the island hopping tour is around 800 pesos, so if you are a group of 4 and up to 8 people you can split the cost between you. Otherwise, you can take a private boat tour and pay the full price.
Any food, drinks, and snorkeling gear rental is an additional cost. You can rent snorkeling gear on Bantayan Island or on Virgin Island Cebu for around 150-200 pesos.
I recommend going to the supermarket on the Bantayan Island mainland to stock up on supplies for the day as it’s much cheaper than the inflated prices on Sillon Island.
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VIRGIN ISLAND BANTAYAN ENTRANCE FEE
When you arrive at Virgin Island Bantayan, there is an additional entrance fee of 250 pesos per head for the first 2 guests and 200 pesos after that for additional people in your group.
Ultimately, the more people you have in your group the cheaper the entrance fee will average out.
See More → 15 Things To Do In Bantayan
WHAT TO EXPECT ON THE TOUR
There are many things to do on Virgin Island Bantayan to keep you entertained for an entire day such as cliff jumping, snorkeling the reef, beach bumming in a hammock, swimming in the shallow turquoise waters, and coastal strolls along the wooden boardwalk.
On the northern end of the island, you can find the cliff jumping area which features a bamboo structure built into the side of the small cliffs.
There is a range of diving boards here starting as low as 3 meters, the middle jump is 5 meters and the highest one is 8 meters.
Work your way up from the smallest jump to the biggest jump and make sure you catch it all on camera.
After cliff jumping, my friends and I decided to explore the northern coastline and found paradise with no other tourists around.
A white sand beach fringed with coconut palms was an idyllic scene I didn’t expect to find on the island.
Have you got travel insurance for your trip?!
We all know accidents can happen and having Heymondo Insurance will save you thousands of dollars if something goes wrong.
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The coastal walk takes you along the edges of the rocky coastline and boasts epic views of the main beach.
You can even go swimming and snorkeling by using the bamboo ladder access in certain spots along the boardwalk.
The main beach on the island is as dreamy as it gets and it looks like something straight out of a postcard.
Sugary white sands, azure waters, and shaded huts under the coconut trees are the definition of an island paradise.
Must Read → 3 Weeks Philippines Itinerary
Island locals have done a fantastic job decorating the area under the palms with hanging shell ornaments that chime in the wind and well-kept gardens that add to the tropical vibes.
Beach bars, small restaurants, and sari-sari stores can also be found on Virgin Island Cebu if you want to grab a cold beer, fresh juice, or something to eat.
A trip to Virgin Island Bantayan will leave you feeling sun-kissed and content after experiencing one of Cebu’s best-kept island paradises!
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BALIDBID LAGOON BANTAYAN
The last stop of the Bantayan Island Hopping is Balidbid Lagoon which is located on the east coast of Bantayan Island’s mainland.
From Virgin Island, it’s a short 20-minute boat ride across the seaway to reach Balidbid Lagoon, arriving on a small beach lined with coconut palms.
Once you step off the boat onto the shoreline you will have to pay a small entrance fee of 20 pesos and then take a short walk over the sandbank to this beautiful Bantayan lagoon.
This insane location blew me away when I sent my drone up to capture some aerial shots of Balidbid Lagoon and it reminded me of the Whitsundays in Australia!
Balidbid features a saltwater lagoon with an ocean inlet that is surrounded by lush greenery and boasts glistening white sandbanks along the edges.
There was a slight current in the lagoon when we visited, so we walked upstream, jumped in the water, and floated down toward the end of the inlet.
We did this several times as it was lots of fun and also very relaxing!
We spent around 1 hour at Balidbid Lagoon enjoying the cool waters and it was a perfect way to end the Bantayan Island Hopping tour.
The final leg of the trip takes around 15 minutes by boat from Balidbid Lagoon back to Kota Beach in Sante Fe which concludes the island-hopping tour!
BEST TOURS IN CEBU
Map of sillon island.
WHERE TO STAY ON BANTAYAN ISLAND
Bantayan Island has dozens of accommodation options to choose from, so I have narrowed it down to a few of the best places to stay near to fit the needs of budget backpackers and luxury travelers.
See the list of accommodations below that I personally recommend:
LUXURY: AMIHAN BEACH CABANAS
Amihan Beach Cabanas is the most luxurious resort on Bantayan Island, featuring a restaurant, bar, outdoor terrace, and a private beach area, and breakfast is included for all guests.
Choose from either a sea view room, a villa, or a family room. Each room has air conditioning, views from the balcony, a private bathroom, flat-screen TV, and free Wi-Fi.
It’s the perfect place to stay for couples, a group of friends, or families on a luxury budget.
MID RANGE: SF CANTINA
Sf Cantina is a small and cozy guesthouse located right on the beach in Sante Fe, featuring a beach bar and restaurant, free Wi-Fi, lounge chairs, and oceanfront rooms.
The rooms have air conditioning and are fitted with a flat-screen TV, large comfortable beds, a wardrobe, and a private bathroom.
Sf Cantina is an affordable place to stay for couples, friends, or families.
BUDGET: EDSAN APARTMENT
Edsan Apartment is the best budget accommodation on the island. Centrally located in Santa Fe and features a garden, BBQ facilities, a shared kitchen area, a terrace, and free Wi-Fi.
Enjoy your privacy in these budget apartments which can sleep 2 people and up to 6 people and are fitted with air-conditioning/fan-cooled, large beds, a private bathroom, and a patio.
It’s the perfect place to stay for solo travelers, couples, friends, or families on a budget.
For All Other Places To Stay, Search On Booking.com
What to pack for the philippines.
When visiting the Philippines, here is a list of items I highly recommend bringing with you:
Must-Have Travel Essentials
Hidden money wallet.
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Reusable Water Bottle
The GRAYL GeoPress is the best reusable bottle that allows you to purify water from anywhere!
Travel Backpack
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Quick-Dry Travel Towel
The most compact, lightweight, and quick-dry towel for traveling!
Portable PowerBank
Keep your phone, laptop, and accessories charged while you’re on the go with the Anker PowerBank!
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FINAL THOUGHTS – VIRGIN ISLAND CEBU
I hope you enjoyed reading this article and if you have any questions at all about Virgin Island Bantayan, please leave me a comment below and I will get back to you as soon as I can.
For a quicker response, be sure to join Jonny Melon’s Travel Tribe on Facebook and post your questions or recommendations to our awesome community.
TRAVEL RESOURCES FOR YOUR NEXT TRIP
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or it’s your first trip overseas, here are some useful travel resources to help you kick-start your next adventure!
Search and book accommodation worldwide.
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Book buses, trains, and transfers online in advance.
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THANKS FOR READING
Hey friend, thanks for reading this guide!
Please know this post may contain affiliate links. When making a purchase through one of my links, I earn a small kickback at no extra cost to you and it’s a big help to keep the site up and running. Rest assured, I only promote products and services that I personally use and recommend.
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Many thanks!
2 thoughts on “Virgin Island Bantayan In Cebu – Visitor’s Guide”
Hi! Just wanna ask. Can you please share the hotel/tour desk’s contact # offering the P800 Virgin Island Tour?
Hi Vince, apologies in advance but I don’t have any contact numbers for this tour. Your best bet is to ask the receptionist at your hotel as they usually can point you in the right direction to an operator running this tour. Good luck and enjoy!
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Dolphin Watching, Snorkeling and Balicasag and Virgin Island Hopping Tour Destinations
DOLPHIN WATCHING
BALICASAG ISLAND
VIRGIN ISLAND
Bohol Balicasag & Virgin Islands Dolphin Watching & Snorkeling with Transfers + Optional Upgrades
Description
Discover islands with rich marine life in this private Bohol island-hopping tour to Balicasag Island and Virgin Island. This is perfect for those interested in lounging, swimming, and seeing different kinds of underwater species all in one day. It is inclusive of roundtrip boat transfers, entrance fees, and the services of a guide.
You can also upgrade this tour and visit Pamilacan Island instead of Virgin Island or visit all three islands and have a complimentary lunch.
You will meet up with your guide in the morning as they pick you up from your accommodations in Tagbilaran City. When you and your guide arrive at the boat docking location, your island-hopping adventure will officially begin.
You will go to Balicasag Island . Due to the large number of sea turtles that live nearby, this beautiful island has become a prominent snorkeling and diving location. While you are here, go swim in the clear seas or stroll along the beach. Take some pictures with the island's pristine beauty serving as the backdrop.
Virgin Island , where a lovely white sandbar awaits, is the final stop on your island-hopping excursion. Explore the island on foot and cool down in its clear waters. It still depends on the season, but you may find starfish strewn in the shallow waters. Make sure to snap some pictures and enjoy the rest of your trip before heading back to the hotel.
If you have chosen to upgrade your tour and change Virgin Island to Pamilacan Island, it will be a different experience, as the island of Pamilacan will be your first stop before Balicasag Island. Dolphin viewing will be your main activity here. Remember that encountering dolphins isn't certain. However, if you're lucky, you could see some of these kind animals in action. If you're fortunate enough to see them, seize the opportunity to watch them in their natural environment. To prevent upsetting the dolphins, always observe correct dolphin viewing techniques and follow what your guide says.
Exploring Bohol is best done by taking an island-hopping excursion which is why upgrading to a private tour that includes Balicasag, Pamilacan, and the Virgin Islands is highly-recommended. Apart from that, you will enjoy a complimentary lunch if you get this upgrade on your island-hopping tour.
Make the most out of your Bohol trip by joining this private day tour to Bohol’s Balicasag and Virgin Islands. Check the the availability by choosing a date.
DISCLAIMER: Seeing dolphins and turtles on this tour is NOT GUARANTEED. While your guide will try their best to assist you in spotting these creatures, their behavior may sometimes be unpredictable and there is a possibility that you may not encounter them during your tour.
Attractions
What to bring
Good to know.
This is a private tour. Meals and drinks are on guests' account
Children Friendly: Yes. Children 0-3 are free of charge.
Pet Friendly: Yes. However, our operator will not be liable in case anything happens to your pets. Please practice the leave no trace policy and pick up after them. Make sure that their vaccinations are updated and bring their vaccination card.
Senior Citizen/PWD Friendly: Yes. There are no extreme physical activities.
Pick-up time is at 5:30 AM Philippine Standard Time for any hotels within Tagbilaran City. To change the pick-up time and location please request in advance so our operator may check if the pick-up time needs to be changed to accommodate changes. Additional fees may apply.
The operator may cancel the tour in case of force majeure or unforeseen circumstances like weather conditions. In this case, you will be given the option to reschedule or request a full refund. Note that being late by 15-30 minutes without any advice is considered a no-show. Schedule cancellation requests must be made 48 hours before your original schedule subject to approval.
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A Caribbean Travel, Lifestyle and Culture Blog
Island Hopping in the U.S. Virgin Islands
When you go island hopping in the U.S. Virgin Islands it is a golden opportunity to experience over fifty islands and cays of pure Caribbean goodness. The islands are very committed to sustainable tourism and eco-tourism, and have taken steps to protect their environment. This has created a pristine tourism product that is loved and appreciated by all. For instance, visitors can lounge on the best beaches in the Caribbean; explore spectacular coral reefs on snorkelling adventures or stroll through historic cities of the islands and gaze in amazement at colourful colonial architecture.
The main benefit of island hopping in the U.S. Virgin Islands is that you can enjoy several islands in a single tour. Each island is memorable with specific traits and charms that make them unique. The main islands are Saint Croix, Saint John, Saint Thomas and Water Islands; and the capital city, Charlotte Amalie is located on Saint Thomas. Additionally, some of the minor islands and cays are privately owned, but are still under the rule of the United States Virgin Islands government.
Island Hopping in the United States Virgin Islands
It is very easy to travel between the US Virgin Islands for short or extended trips. There are frequent daily plane and ferry services which make island hopping a breeze. All travellers must possess a valid government identification (for example, a passport) in order to travel among the islands of the United States Virgin Islands. Travel by plane is facilitated by Seaborne Airlines and Cape Air who operate short shuttles between St. Thomas and St. Croix. Average flying time is twenty-five minutes.
Travel by ferry between the islands varies and can be as little as ten minutes up to thirty minutes. F erry schedules are operated between Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas and Cruz Bay, St. John. There is a car barge service that runs from Red Hook, St. Thomas to Cruz Bay, St. John. There is also a ferry service from Crown Bay, St. Thomas to Water Island. Travellers can also depart Frenchman’s Reef Resort at the Frenchman’s Reef Dock and transfer to Charlotte Amalie at the Charlotte Amalie Waterfront.
Inter-Island Tour Providers in the United States Virgin Islands
Research schedules for island hopping in the United States Virgin Islands using the links below:
Bohlke International Airways | Cape Air | Caribbean Buzz Helicopters | Dolphin Water Taxi | QE IV Ferry | Sea Flight | Seaborne Airlines | Seahorse Land & Water Taxi | St. Thomas Water Taxi
The Saint Croix Experience
Saint Croix measures 28 miles long and 7 miles wide and is the largest of the United States Virgin Islands. Its many archaeological sites and ecological preserve complement the island’s rich history. One of the innovative experiences on the island is the farm to table movement, which educates on the importance of locally grown, organic food . In addition, the island is home to the Estate Whim Plantation Museum, Salt River Bay National Historical Park and Ecological Preserve and the Christiansted National Historic Site. Some of the top activities on St. Croix are scuba diving, golf, sports tourism and sport fishing and art and craft.
The Saint John Experience
Saint John is a small island that always amazes visitors with its natural beauty. It was once a sugar producing nation and this allowed the island’s economy to flourish. Saint John has several gorgeous beaches which have caught the eye of many. Hawkesnest Bay and Trunk Bay, some of the beach highlights on the island, are two of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Points of interest on the island include the Virgin Islands National Park, Cruz Bay, the Cinnamon Bay Nature Trail and the Reef Bay Trail. Popular activities on the island are snorkelling, scuba diving and off-road explorations.
The Saint Thomas Experience
Saint Thomas is a culturally rich island that is well known for its national landmarks, fine dining and exciting nightlife. The island is very mountainous and allows for breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea at points as high as 1,500 feet above sea level. The island is home to the St. Thomas Synagogue, Blackbeard’s Castle, Drake’s Seat, Valdemar Hill and Magens Bay. With over 40 beaches, Saint Thomas is regarded as one of the top beach destinations for snorkelling and paddle boarding in the world, thanks to its soft sand and clear water. Top activities on the island include, snuba, parasailing, windsurfing and kayaking.
The Water Island Experience
Water Island is a remote, scenic small island of about 500 acres with a population of less than 200 people. It is a quiet, peaceful and laid back island which is only accessible by ferry or boat. Building developments are minimal, and as a result, the island is even more beautiful and unspoilt. The island is heavily dependent on St. Thomas because there is no airport, no schools, no supermarkets and very few businesses in operation. Must see attractions are Honeymoon Beach, Fort Segarra and ruins of plantations that were active in the colonial era. Activities on the island include hiking, paddle boarding, fly boarding, snorkelling and swimming.
Further Reading
- Island Hopping Through History (Visit the USA)
- Guide to Island Hopping in the Virgin Islands (MVMT Blog)
- Island Hopping (Visit USVI)
Related Posts
- Bed and Breakfasts in the US Virgin Islands
- Your Guide to the Bars, Eateries and Restaurants in the U.S. Virgin Islands
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- British Virgin Islands
- How To Spend 7 Days...
How to Spend 7 Days Island Hopping Around the British Virgin Islands
With fair winds, calm seas and a hefty dose of vibrant Caribbean culture, the BVIs have long been considered one of the best cruising grounds for charter novices to earn their sea legs. There may be ferries connecting the main islands, but, when it comes to discovering the quiet corners of the archipelago away from the crowds, there’s no better way than exploring by boat. Our seven-day itinerary of the BVI ticks off a bucket list of beaches, breath-taking snorkel spots and the best places to enjoy a punchy rum cocktail at the end of the day.
To sail around the British Virgin Islands in style, you can choose any charter option available. Alternatively, you can book our premium multi-day British Virgin Islands Sailing Trip .
Day 1 – Scrub Island to Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda
Make your way through West South Bay and sail east for a lunchtime stop off at the Baths at the southern tip of Virgin Gorda. Grab a mooring ball at Devil’s Bay and swim ashore. The Baths are one of the most unique destinations in the BVIs and well worth a visit for an afternoon of exploring the naturally formed swimming pools and grottos created by the collection of vast granite boulders. After lunch, travel up the west coast of the island and grab a spot at Spanish Town’s Yacht Harbour, the town’s central marina. There are plenty of restaurants and bars here to kick off the first night on charter including CocoMaya, which boasts a menu packed with crowd pleasers and is just a 10-minute walk from the marina.
Day 2 – Spanish Town to Anegada
Day two is a great opportunity to stretch your sea legs. Depart Spanish Town and sail up the west coast of Virgin Gorda, passing Dog Islands to the west. If time, anchor at Saba Rock , a private resort nestled between Prickly Pear Island and Virgin Gorda. Day trippers are welcome to dine at the main restaurant or sip cocktails in the sunset bar. The rest of the sail to Anegada is a scenic route of true bluewater sailing. Anegada, or “drowned island”, is a unique, flat coral atoll to the north of the BVIs and a must-visit for nature lovers. Be vigilant on your approach to the island, grab a mooring ball off Setting Point and head ashore. Pay a visit to the idyllic Loblolly Bay and watch the flamingos from Flamingo Point Lookout; you might even be lucky enough to spot a rare ground iguana. Grab your snorkelling gear and head over to Horseshoe Reef, one of the largest barrier coral reefs in the Caribbean, which is populated with shipwrecks and colourful fish in equal measure. Finish with a sumptuous dinner of Anegada lobster and watch the sunset from Setting Point.
Day 3 – Anegada to Trellis Bay, Tortola
Set off from Anegada and grab a mooring buoy at Dog Islands for a lunch and snorkel stop. This cluster of uninhabited islands offers excellent snorkelling opportunities and plentiful marine life, as well as beautiful rocks and coral. After lunch, curve around the east end of Tortola and arrive in the quaint but bustling town of Trellis Bay. Since Hurricane Irma struck, it’s lacking in mooring balls, but the bay offers sheltered anchorage and there are plentiful dinghy docks for heading ashore. Trellis Bay also has a combination of beautiful beaches, as well as some delicious food at the restaurants scattered along the beach; highlights include Jeremy’s Kitchen and the Loose Mongoose Café. Pay a visit to the vibrant arts centre Aragorn’s Studio and reprovision at Trellis Bay Market. If you’re lucky enough to visit the BVIs during the full moon, make sure you attend Trellis Bay’s full moon party.
Day 4 – Trellis Bay to White Bay, Jost Van Dyke
From Trellis Bay, spend the morning sailing west past Little Camanoe and up to Monkey Point, the most southerly point of the ecological preserve of Guana Island. Known for spectacular snorkelling, Monkey Point is a must for nature fans. Grab a National Park mooring buoy (anchoring is prohibited) and spend a peaceful lunch snorkelling with the colourful fishes down below, including yellowtail snappers, grunts and crevalle jacks. After lunch, spend the afternoon sailing west to Jost Van Dyke and hook a mooring ball in White Bay. Dinghy ashore to enjoy early evening sundowners at the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar and meander along the shore for plenty of waterside dining options.
Day 5 – Jost Van Dyke to Norman Island
Sail south from White Bay and make Smuggler’s Cove at the south end of Tortola your lunchtime stop. It’s hard to imagine this secluded, peaceful beach is named after its previous life as a pirates’ haunt but it’s the perfect spot for a lazy afternoon sunbathe or a bite to eat at Nigel’s Boom Boom Beach Bar and Grill. From here, spend the afternoon sailing around Tortola’s West End, past Frenchman’s Cay and continue south to Norman Island. The Bight, one of the most popular anchorages in the BVI, sits in the middle of the island. This sheltered bay features a reef on the eastern part of the harbour – perfect for snorkelling – and plays host to the legendary floating bar, the Willie T.
Day 6 – The Bight to Brandywine Bay
From the Bight, island-hop to Little Harbour on the adjacent Peter Island to the southeast of Tortola. Little Harbour is one of the most scenic beaches on the island and features unusual points of interest, including the abandoned cigar factory and mansions which were first built in the 1920s. After a lunch of exploration, sail north across the Sir Francis Drake channel to Brandywine Bay on the south side of Tortola. The Brandywine Estate Restaurant is a sure bet for dinner, with menu showstoppers including the lobster thermidor and moules marinière. Kick off the evening with a sundowner on the terrace and spot yachts sailing in the channel below. Call ahead and reserve a mooring ball through the restaurant; the bay is popular and fills up fast.
Day 7 – Brandywine Bay to Scrub Island
From Brandywine Bay sail along the picturesque southern coast of Tortola, stopping off at East End Bay for a lunchtime stroll ashore in Parham Town. Looking out over Fat Hog’s Bay and East End Bay, Parham Town is a perfect spot for yacht spotting, especially with a cold Caribbean beer in hand. From here, it’s time to head back to base. Sail around the Bluff and circle back up to Scrub Island. After mooring up, Scrub Island Resort and Spa has plenty of options for a celebratory last dinner. Toast the charter with powerful rum cocktails on the terrace and regale stories from your week-long adventure around the BVIs.
Explore all of the beauty the British Virgin Islands’ has to offer by chartering a vessel or embarking on Culture Trip’s multi-day sailing adventure .
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
Our immersive trips , led by Local Insiders, are once-in-a-lifetime experiences and an invitation to travel the world with like-minded explorers. Our Travel Experts are on hand to help you make perfect memories. All our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.?>
All our travel guides are curated by the Culture Trip team working in tandem with local experts. From unique experiences to essential tips on how to make the most of your future travels, we’ve got you covered.
See & Do
The ultimate guide to partying in the british virgin islands.
Must-See Wildlife While Sailing Around the British Virgin Islands
Bars & Cafes
The famous beach bars of jost van dyke, what to drink and how to get there.
Guides & Tips
best places to go fishing in the british virgin islands.
Everything You Need to Know About Willy T's Floating Bar in the British Virgin Islands
Go Diving and Explore the Kodiak Queen – a Sunken Warship in the BVIs
Uncovering Rhone Marine Park and Norman Island: the Best Places to Scuba Dive in the British Virgin Islands
The Best Oceanside Bars in the British Virgin Islands
Ecotourism in the British Virgin Islands: How to Travel Lightly By Boat
Food & Drink
Top cocktails you have to drink while sailing round the british and us virgin islands.
Top Reasons Why You Should Go Sailing in the British Virgin Islands
The Best Beaches to Visit While Sailing Around Tortola, British Virgin Islands
Culture trip spring sale, save up to $1,656 on our unique small-group trips limited spots..
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There are 7 main islands in the Virgin Islands: St Thomas, St John and St Croix in the USVI and Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Anegada and Jost van Dyke in the BVI. All offer travelers something unique worth exploring. To see all the ferry routes and up to date departure times, please use our simple search interface. Find your Virgin Islands Ferry .
An island-hopping tour to Balicasag Island and Virgin Island Bohol is an absolute MUST on your Bohol itinerary. The Bohol Island Hopping tour package includes dolphin watching from the boat, snorkeling with sea turtles on Balicasag Island Bohol, and a visit to the unique sand bar on Virgin Island Bohol.
British Virgin Islands: Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, Anegada. The British Virgin Islands are made up of about 50 islands and islets. The four largest islands are Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke and Anegada. . Tortola is the largest island with an area of 21 square miles. The other larger islands are Anegada - 15 square miles ...
Combine bar hopping with beach hopping with this small-group experience. Over the course of eight hours, you'll hit up four different beach bars on Water Island, Christmas Cove, Coki Points, and a fourth location depending on the weather. ... Full-Day Sailing Tour in Virgin Islands National Park. 37. 6 hours. Free Cancellation. From. $265.00 ...
Discover the Best Food & Snorkeling & Island Hopping in the Virgins Islands. Book Online and Save 10% - Only $180. Today is all about having fun and meeting new friends in a small group setting. Experience the beautiful scenery from the water, as we Island Hop, Snorkel and eat our way through the crystal clear waters of the US Virgin Islands.
US$ 31.15. Select options. Discover Bohol's most beautiful islands - Balicasag and Virgin Island - as you embark on this memorable island hopping tour. Snorkel in the pristine waters of Balicasag Island Marine Sanctuary, and swim with numerous fishes and corals. Get up close with the marine species of Bohol while fish feeding at Balicasag Reef.
Set out on a thrilling island-hopping adventure to Virgin Island, Hilantagaan, and Balidbid Lagoon for a day filled with sun, sea, and unforgettable memories. With flexible pricing, convenient pickup points, and a worry-free booking policy, this excursion promises a seamless and enjoyable experience. Dive into the crystal-clear waters, explore ...
Full-Day Sailing Tour in Virgin Islands National Park. 20. Day Trips. from . $265.00. per adult. Swim w/Turtles at St. John, Pizza Pi & Snorkel a shipwreck. 289. Historical Tours. from . ... Private 6-Hour Island Hopping in US Virgin Islands - 500hp Hydro Sport. 43. Jet Boat Rentals. from . $1,095.00. per group (up to 6)
Balicasag Island Tour & Virgin Island Bohol: Complete Guide. Jackson Groves. June 23, 2023. PHILIPPINES. Bohol is an amazing island with many beautiful beaches, caves, and waterfalls to explore. However, a day of island hopping to the nearby islands is also a great way to spend your time on Bohol. For $10 USD I was able to enjoy a 6-hour day ...
Visit the must-see spots of Bohol with this early bird 5.5-hour island hopping tour. The Banca boat will take you to Balicasag Island and Virgin Island both famous for their marine lives, green-blue waters, and clear snorkelling sites. After your hotel pick-up, sail out to Balicasag Island where you can spot different species of dolphin and ...
Virgin Island Cebu is a short 30-minute boat ride from Kota Beach on the east coast of Bantayan Island. The Bantayan Island Hopping tour includes visiting Virgin Island and Balidbid Lagoon on Bantayan Island before returning to Kota Beach in Santa Fe. It's up to you how long you want to spend on the island, you have to communicate with the ...
Discover islands with rich marine life in this private Bohol island-hopping tour of Balicasag and Virgin Islands. This is perfect for those interested in lounging, swimming, and seeing different kinds of underwater species all in one day. It is inclusive of roundtrip boat transfers, entrance fees, and the services of a guide.
Dolphin Watching, Snorkeling and Balicasag and Virgin Island Hopping Tour Destinations. DOLPHIN WATCHING. One of the attractions of Bohol is the chance to go dolphin or whale watching on the Bohol sea. Dolphin Watching trip usually starts at around 5:30a.m. -6:00a.m. Feeling the fresh air, sweet smell of the sea, witnessing the sun rise above ...
St. John is the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands and also the most peaceful and tranquil. Over 60% of St. John is made up of a national park. We had no trouble finding secluded beaches with beautiful white sand beaches and clear blue water on this island. Some popular beaches on St. John include Cinnamon Bay, Hawsknest Beach, Honeymoon Beach ...
Discover islands with rich marine life in this private Bohol island-hopping tour to Balicasag Island and Virgin Island. This is perfect for those interested in lounging, swimming, and seeing different kinds of underwater species all in one day. It is inclusive of roundtrip boat transfers, entrance fees, and the services of a guide.
St. John's north shore is wild and free. Protected by the Virgin Islands National Park, it's all forest-fringed beaches, teeming reefs and pristine cays. Caneel Bay, Hawksnest Beach, Trunk Cay, Whistling Cay, Maho Bay - these sights are all on the must-see list. Make sure you visit Annaberg, the remains of an 18th-century Dutch sugar ...
The main benefit of island hopping in the U.S. Virgin Islands is that you can enjoy several islands in a single tour. Each island is memorable with specific traits and charms that make them unique. The main islands are Saint Croix, Saint John, Saint Thomas and Water Islands; and the capital city, Charlotte Amalie is located on Saint Thomas.
Explore the Virgin Islands National Park. No visit to St. John is complete without a tour of Virgin Islands National Park, which covers 60% of the island and spans more than 2,000 hectares. From Annaberg, head 20 minutes west on the winding North Shore Drive to enter the park through Cruz Bay, the largest city on St. John.
Embarking on the Island Hopping adventure in Bantayan Island - Virgin Island unveils a seamless process for booking and pricing, ensuring travelers can secure their experience effortlessly. The booking process offers a price starting from €58.08, with variations based on group size. Travelers benefit from group discounts and a Lowest Price ...
Estimated Itinerary. 06:00 AM - Motorboat pick up and departure from the resort. 07:00 AM - Arrive at the playground or natural habitat of whales and dolphins (weather dependent) 8:30 AM - Proceed to Balicasag Island. 9:00 AM - Arrive in Balicasag Island then Swimming. 10:30 AM - Proceed to Virgin Island (Sand Bar)
Tour Itinerary. 15:00 - Pick up from Abraham Bohol. 15:20 - Arrive at the port. 15:35 - Arrive at Staka Snorkeling Point. 16:30 - Arrive at Virgin Island. 17:55 - Start going back to the port. 18:15 - Night Swim in the ocean. 18:30 - Arrival at the port. 18:45 - Arrival in Abraham Bohol.
The rest of the sail to Anegada is a scenic route of true bluewater sailing. Anegada, or "drowned island", is a unique, flat coral atoll to the north of the BVIs and a must-visit for nature lovers. Be vigilant on your approach to the island, grab a mooring ball off Setting Point and head ashore. Pay a visit to the idyllic Loblolly Bay and ...