The British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands is an alluring maze of islands and cays that beckon visitors to its shores. Its beauty and charm are interwoven with the excitement and adventure sought after by visitors looking for spectacular escapes: world class sailing, snorkeling, scuba diving, paddleboarding, kite boarding and zip-lining.
With 21 national parks on more than 60 islands, the best-kept secrets lie in the BVI’s hidden coves, tucked-away beaches, and hushed forests. Thanks to its calm waters and steady trade winds, the BVI is revered as the sailing capital of the world.
Visitors are always stunned by the clear line of sight between the islands and how effortless it is to island hop. Simply set sail on a crewed yacht or bareboat into sapphire seas and drop anchor when the mood strikes.
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It’s no secret that salt-kissed air, calm breezes and balmy waters can rejuvenate your body and soul. Whether you choose morning yoga on the beach or a dip in the sea, lounge on the sand or ascend a mountain peak, a massage or spa treatment can transform a special day into an extraordinary one. Wellness spas are scattered throughout the islands, from an exclusive villa perched atop a cliff to local retreats in the center of town.
Renowned for hospitality and authenticity, 15 islands offer a full range of accommodation reserved just for you. You’re certain to find the perfect fit among the BVI’s choice of luxury boutique resorts, vacation homes and more. Visit our website
Dining
From local cuisine to fine dining, every meal is connected to the spirit of the islands. At an open air bar, dive into a plate of sweet Anegada lobster and conch fritters, and follow your nose to a roadside café for local Caribbean fare.
Head to the Soggy Dollar Bar for Painkiller, the islands’ signature rum cocktail, or check out the microbrewery inside Foxy’s Tamarind Bar. The BVI Food Fete is an annual celebration of culinary events, including BVI Restaurant Week and the Anegada Lobster Festival. Immerse yourself in the flavours of the islands and these culinary memories will linger for a lifetime.
Quick Facts
Languages spoken: English
Currency: US Dollars
Climate: The climate is subtropical and is tempered by trade winds. The average temperature is around 30C year-round, dropping to an average 22C in the evening.
Electricity: 110V; adaptors are not required.
Time Zone: Atlantic Standard Time (AST), (GMT-4); the BVIs do not observe Daylight Savings Time thus they are ahead of EST in the winter, and on the same time zone as EST in the summer.
Driving: Driving is on the left hand side of the road, though most rental vehicles have steering wheels on the left (as in Canada). Seatbelts are required and cell phone use is prohibited. You must show a valid Canadian driver’s license however, a temporary British Virgin Islands Drivers license is required ($10US per person).
Activities
The essence of the BVIs lies in its endless water activities. With more than 100 spectacular dive sites, you may swim among dazling sea life and sunken shipwrecks, or snorkel through colourful coral gardens and reefs. More than 160 varieties of fish live in these waters, offering some of the most diverse catch in the Caribbean.
Whether you’re interested in snorkelling, surfing, standup paddleboarding, kite surfing, or kayaking, we have an activity for you. Additionally, many dive shops offer PADI certification courses, and once you’re reading, local guides are on hand to lead you.
On land, ascend Tortola’s Sage Mountain for a breathtaking view of the islands scattered like jewels. On Virgin Gorda, The Baths is an astonishing collection of granite boulders and natural tide pools. Hop on an ATV on Jost Van Dyke to explore the volcanic terrain.
Travel Essentials
- Flight Info
- Entry Requirements
- Long Stays
- Getting Married
- Local Events
- Medical
- Accessibility
- Brochures
- Sustainability
- Voluntourism
Flight Information
There are no non-stop flights from Canada to the British Virgin Islands’ main airport (Tortola’s Terrence B. Lettsoe Airport (EIS)).
The most direct non-stop flight from North America to the BVIs is via Miami, Florida (AA to Beef Island, BVI).
There are airlines that offer short flights from San Juan, Puerto Rico (Cape Air and Tradewind Aviation), St. Thomas (Cape Air), Antigua (InterCaribbean Airways) or St. Maarten (Winair).
Entry Requirements for Canadians
The British Virgin Islands has a new electronic immigration card which must be completed 72 hours prior to arrival. Click HERE for the link.
Valid Canadian passports are required; passports must be valid for 6 months beyond the date you expect to leave from the British Virgin Islands.
Canadians do not require a visa to enter the British Virgin Islands, however stays beyond 30 days require proper authorization from the Chief Immigration Officer. Stays can be extended up to 6 months.
For additional information, consult your Travel Advisor or The Government of Canada’s Entry and Exit Requirements: English / French
Long Stays
Coming Soon
Getting Married
Spectacular scenery provides the perfect canvas for couples to say “I do” with options to include secluded beaches, historic ruins, island landmarks, or a gala reception at sea. Multiple venues and exquisite surroundings, including private island buyouts, afford couples the opportunity to create the vision of their dreams for a lifetime of memories.
A British Virgin Islands marriage license can be obtained by visiting the Registrar-General’s office, though the procedure can begin on line.
Couples must provide the following documents:
- Show proof of your identity, resident status and day of arrival via your passport the day you arrived in the British Virgin Islands.
- Show proof of marital status (including certified copies of Decree(s) Absolute for divorced spouse or Death Certificate(s) of deceased spouse).
- Have two persons to witness and sign your application for the license (please note that these two witnesses CAN be, but need not be the same two witnesses who are present at your marriage ceremony). Also please note that you can always request persons in the Virgin Islands to be witnesses at the Registrar-General’s Office and at your marriage ceremony.
Once the license has been applied for, couples should then schedule an appointment for the date and time they propose to be married. If the couple has arranged for their appointment from abroad, they will need to confirm it at the Registrar-General’s Office at this time.
For further details, please write or call:
Registrar-General
P.O. Box 3199 Road Town,
Tortola British Virgin Islands VG1110
Tel: (284) 468-3442
Fax: (284) 494-2783
Email: info@crisvi.gov.vg or infocris@gov.vg
Website: www.crisvi.gov.vg
Destination Wedding Information
Cultural/Annual Events
There is always something to celebrate in the British Virgin Islands. Party alongside the islanders to honour their local culture, from music festivals to sailing regattas and even a deep-sea fishing jamboree.
PUBLIC AND/OR GOVERNMENT HOLIDAYS:
The Government of the British Virgin Islands observes the following holidays each year:
(Some services may be impacted with reduced hours, or there may be full closures on these days)
2026 Public Holidays
Thursday, January 1, 2026 – New Year’s Day
Monday, March 9, 2026 – Anniversary of the Birth of Hamilton Lavity Stoutt
Wednesday, February 18, 2026 – Ash Wednesday
Friday, April 3, 2026 – Good Friday (Stores closed)
Sunday, April 5, 2026 – Easter Sunday
Monday, April 6, 2026 – Easter Monday
Monday, May 25, 2026 – Whit Monday
Monday, May 18, 2026 – Discovery Day
Friday, June 12, 2026 – Sovereign’s Birthday
Tuesday, June 30, 2026 – Commemoration of the Freedom
Monday, July 6, 2026 – Virgin Islands Day
Monday, November 9, 2026 – Remembrance Day
Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
Monday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day
Monday/Tuesday/Wednesday, August 3, 4, 5, 2026 – Emancipation Days
Monday, October 19, 2026 – Heroes and Foreparents Day
Monday, November 23, 2026 – Commemoration of the Great March of 1949 and the Restoration of the Legislative Council
Friday, December 25, 2026 – Christmas Day
Saturday, December 26, 2026 – Boxing Day (observed on Dec.28)
Medical & Dental Information
The services offered by the British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority are comprehensive and include multiple community clinics.
Hospital
British Virgin Islands Health Services Authority
Main St., Road Town, BVIs
Hours: Open 24/7 for emergency services
Tel: (284)-852-7500 / (284) 394-3497
More Information on Services offered at BVIHSA
Clinics under the authority of the BVIHS include:
The Theresa Smith Blyden Clinic (Capoon’s Bay)
Phone: 284-852-6950 / Emergency #: 440-1641 or 440-1728
Road Town Health Centre
Phone: 284-852-6552 / Emergency #: 440-1631
Rosalind Penn Clinic (Long Look)
Phone: 284-852-6850 / Emergency #: 440-1631
Iris Penn Clinic (East End)
Phone: 284-852-6800 / Emergency #: 345-2613
Jost Van Dyke Clinic
Emergency #: 346-1709
Nurse Iris O’Neal Clinic (The Valley, Virgin Gorda)
Phone: 284-852-7700 / Emergency #: 345-2613
North Sound Clinic
Phone: 284-852-7720 / Emergency #: 440-1661
Romalia Smith Clinic (Anegada) (temporarily relocated)
Emergency #: 284-440-1627 or 284-346-9801 or 284-440-1646
Link to other private clinics in BVIs: Additional health care centres
Virgin Island Search & Rescue:
Hours: 24/7 marine emergency care by dialing 767 while in the BVIs
Email: info@visar.org
The British Virgin Islands encompasses a large geographic area and is a premier yachting destination. Thus, marine emergency care was added to the infrastructure and included two base stations: Road Reef Marina on Tortola and Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour and two rescue vessels. Learn More
EMERGENCY DENTAL SERVICES:
Smile Dental Spa, Road Town: PH 284-494-2004
FOR DIVERS:
Divers should be aware that there is no hyperbaric chamber. If you require treatment for decompression illness you will have to go to St. John in the US Virgin Islands or San Juan in Puerto Rico.
Accessibility
Please ensure that your airline knows about any special needs before travel.
Airport Services
The British Virgin Islands (BVIs) have three international airports: Tortola (EIS), Virgin Gorda (VIJ), and Anegada (NGD). The BVIAA operates all three Airports.
Services provided include:
- Accessible Washrooms – all washrooms offer wheelchair-accessible stalls.
- Wheelchair Assistance – available at the airline counters. Airlines are responsible for ensuring that all differently-abled passengers are accommodated and are safely transited throughout the airports.
- Priority Security Service – priority lane available through the security checkpoint. Officers are trained to perform security screening that caters to differently-abled passengers.
- Client Relations Care – customer service representatives available to offer additional assistance.
- Accessible Walkways – entry and exit to all airports have accessible ramps.
Ports of Entry
There are three main cruise ports of entry located on Jost Van Dyke, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda.
The BVI Ports Authority manages the cargo, ferry, and cruise facilities.
Phone: 284-494-3435
Email: bviports@bviports.org
Services at the main cruise terminals include:
- Accessible Washrooms – all washrooms offer wheelchair-accessible stalls.
- Wheelchair Assistance: available at the customer service counters. **at CBRTPP cruise facility, we do not offer wheelchair assistance, but ramps exist to facilitate ease of access to sidewalks/walkways.
Sustainability
Sustainability Commitment
Sustainability is at the heart of the British Virgin Islands’ tourism philosophy. With 21 declared national parks and an extensive protected area system comprising more than 50 designated marine and terrestrial protected areas, the BVI has established one of the Caribbean’s most comprehensive conservation networks. These protected areas safeguard everything from coral reefs and mangroves to beaches, forests, and critical wildlife habitats — preserving the very landscapes and seascapes that define our destination.
Guided by the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development, the BVI remains committed to balancing visitor growth with environmental stewardship. Initiatives such as the Territory-wide Recycling Programme led by Green VI, mangrove rehabilitation and coral restoration projects, turtle tagging, and the work of the BVI Association of Reef Keepers (BVIARK) reinforce this commitment. Renewable energy investments led by the BVI Electricity Corporation — including solar-plus-storage projects and the STEP Solar Technology Energy Programme — support the Territory’s transition toward cleaner energy.
Many luxury resorts incorporate renewable energy through solar panels and wind generation, alongside responsible waste management and water conservation systems. Several properties operate micro-farming initiatives and on-site gardens, reducing food miles while supplying fresh, locally grown produce for their restaurants. Resorts actively partner with local farmers and fishermen, prioritizing locally sourced seafood and agricultural products to support the Territory’s economy and preserve traditional livelihoods. Some properties also host artisan and farmers’ markets, creating opportunities for local craftspeople and producers to showcase their work directly to visitors.
Beyond sourcing and sustainability practices, certain properties are engaged in environmental stewardship programmes, including the protection of endangered species, reef conservation efforts, and habitat restoration initiatives. These integrated approaches reflect a broader commitment within the hospitality sector to not only minimize environmental impact, but to actively contribute to the protection and celebration of the British Virgin Islands’ natural and cultural heritage.
As the Sailing Capital of the World™, sustainability also extends deeply into the BVI’s marine sector. The Territory’s world-renowned charter yacht industry has embraced innovation, with an increasing number of vessels outfitted with solar panels, advanced battery systems, and energy-efficient designs that reduce fuel consumption while maximizing wind power. New yacht builds continue to integrate environmentally conscious technologies, reinforcing the BVI’s leadership as a forward-thinking and responsible marine destination.
Equally important is education and awareness. Visitors are encouraged to practise responsible boating, including the use of established mooring buoy systems available in many of our harbours to help protect delicate marine habitats, use reef-safe products, and participate in conservation programmes that promote respect for the marine environment. Together, these proactive initiatives ensure that tourism in the British Virgin Islands enhances — rather than compromises — our natural and cultural heritage.
Voluntourism
In the British Virgin Islands, voluntourism is rooted in meaningful connection — to community, culture, and the marine environment that defines the Territory. Visitors seeking purpose-driven travel can engage in coral restoration, mangrove rehabilitation, turtle conservation, and marine research initiatives in partnership with the BVI National Parks Trust, local environmental organizations, and certified dive operators offering conservation-focused diving experiences. Signature programmes such as turtle tagging and reef monitoring allow guests to contribute directly to ongoing environmental research and species protection efforts, with several resorts incorporating these initiatives into their guest programming.
As the Sailing Capital of the World™, marine stewardship is woven into the visitor experience. During events such as BVI Wreck Week, the Territory’s annual diving celebration, participants are encouraged to practice responsible diving and support reef awareness and marine conservation initiatives. Throughout the year, organized beach and mangrove clean-ups provide opportunities for both residents and visitors to actively contribute to preserving the islands’ coastal ecosystems.
Youth summer sailing camps — primarily geared toward visiting youth, while also welcoming local participants — combine maritime training with community engagement. In addition to developing sailing skills and environmental awareness, participants take part in volunteer projects such as painting and beautifying public spaces, fostering a spirit of service and connection to the islands they are exploring.
Through these experiences, visitors do more than explore the British Virgin Islands — they actively contribute to its preservation and community wellbeing. Voluntourism in the BVI reflects a collaborative approach to tourism, where travel leaves a positive and lasting impact on both people and place.