Jost Van Dyke
Just northwest of Tortola lies the island of Jost Van Dyke. Little
more than 4 square miles around, this rugged island was named for
a Dutch settler. Jost Van Dyke is a popular stopover island for
cruise ships passing through the British Virgin Islands. It can
be a very tranquil atmosphere when the ships are not in port. The
island is also a favorite destination of yachters.
Jost Van Dyke was once the home to many sugar-cane plantations
in the 1700s developed by a Quaker colony. The island is now home
to some good beaches, one of the main reasons to actively seek out
the island. On the south side, you will find White Bay and Great
Harbour.
The island’s main claim to fame is probably its most famous
colonist. William Thorton was chosen through a world-wide competition
to design the Capitol building in Washington, D.C.
The easiest way to reach Jost Van Dyke is by using a ferry service
from Tortola or St. Thomas. There are frequent daily departures
to Jost Van Dyke on ferryboat shuttles leaving from Tortola’s
isolated West End at Soper’s Hole. The 25-minute trip costs
under $15 one-way.
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