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Country Guide > Caribbean > British Virgin Islands | |
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Sport & Activities Diving The clear waters and unspoilt reefs provide ideal diving conditions, and qualified instructors are widely available. There are over 60 dive sites, many of which are within the Underwater National Park System. Night diving can be especially spectacular. Vertical walls, underwater pinnacles, coral reefs, caverns and wrecks, notably the RMS Rhone, which sank in 1867 off Salt Island, can all be visited. The marine life includes most Caribbean and Atlantic species of tropical fish and marine invertebrates. Humpback whales, dolphins, turtles and manta rays also make occasional appearances. Certification is necessary for equipment rental and air fills. When diving or swimming, it is important not to over-exert, especially if unused to swimming in sea conditions, if unfit, or if having consumed alcohol. There is, however, a Virgin Islands Search & Rescue (VISAR) to respond to emergencies. Coral reefs are very fragile and divers should take great care not to touch the reefs or remove anything, dead or alive, from the ecosystem. For further details on how to protect the marine environment, contact the British Virgin Islands Association of Reef Keepers (tel: 53237; e-mail: info@arkbvi.org; website: www.arkbvi.org). Sailing This is extremely popular. There are numerous modern marinas, and the Yacht Club in Road Town, Tortola, organises races and regattas and offers instruction in sailing and navigation. Yacht charter and one-day sailing trips are widely available. Day trips are also being offered on the Gli Gli, an authentic replica of a traditional Carib Indian dugout canoe. The highlight of the sail racing season in the British Virgin Islands is the BVI Spring Regatta, the largest regatta in the prestigious Caribbean Ocean Racing Triangle (CORT) series. The race and its shore-side activities and entertainment attract large crowds of spectators and party-goers. For entry forms and further information, contact the Royal BVI Yacht Club (tel: 43286; fax: 46117; e-mail: rbviyc@caribsurf.com; website: www.rbviyc.net). Fishing Charters can be arranged for offshore fishing trips. Removing fish or other marine life is illegal for non-residents without a recreational fishing permit, obtainable from the Ministry of Natural Resources and Labour (tel: 43701, ext 2147; fax: 4283; e-mail: nrl@gov.vg). Outdoor pursuits In spite of the steep terrain, hiking is growing in popularity. There is a trail up Sage Mountain on Tortola, as well as along Ridge Road, with its dramatic views. A route runs up Gorda Peak on Virgin Gorda, and a hiking trail has recently been established on Jost Van Dyke. Horse riding can be arranged. On Tortola, tours to the Sage Mountain National Park and Cane Garden Bay begin near Meyers on the Ridge Road. Trips are also available through Virgin Gorda’s unusual landscape. Cycling and mountain biking are possible, with bicycles for hire in most of the islands’ resorts. |