ROAD TOWN

• VGRAD
• Latitude: 18.42
• Longitude: -64.6154
• Caribbean Sea
• Port in British Virgin Islands

Location: Road Town Tortola VG1110 British Virgin Islands

Phone number: +1 284-494-3435

Web-site: http://www.bvipa.com/

Marine Port Description and Specifications: Road Town, British Virgin Islands

General Overview: Road Town is the capital and main commercial port of the British Virgin Islands (BVI), located on the southern coast of Tortola, the largest of the BVI islands. It is a vital hub for both passenger and cargo traffic within the region. The port is known for its natural deep-water harbor and serves as a key gateway for tourists and goods entering the islands.

Port Specifications:

1. Geographic Location:

   • Coordinates: Approximately 18.4227° N latitude and 64.6208° W longitude.
   • Situated on the central part of the southern coast of Tortola.

2. Harbor Details:

   • Type: Natural deep-water harbor.
   • Size: The harbor has extensive berthing options and can accommodate various vessel sizes, from small yachts to larger cruise ships.

3. Draft and Berthing:

   • Maximum Draft: Varies at different berths; typically handles vessels with a draft up to 9 meters at the main docks.
   • Berthing Facilities: Multiple docks including the main cargo dock, cruise ship pier, and several smaller piers for yachts and smaller vessels.

4. Cargo Handling:

   • Main Imports: Consumer goods, construction materials, fuel, food supplies.
   • Handling Equipment: Port Road Town is equipped with cranes, forklifts, and other essential cargo handling equipment. Container handling facilities are available.

5. Passenger Facilities:

   • Cruise Ships: Dedicated cruise ship pier that can accommodate large cruise liners.
   • Ferries and Yachts: Facilities for inter-island ferry services and private yachts, including customs and immigration services.

6. Port Services:

   • Bunkering and Refueling: Available for both commercial and private vessels.
   • Waste Disposal: Adequate facilities for waste disposal complying with environmental regulations.
   • Security: The port complies with ISPS (International Ship and Port Facility Security) Code regulations, ensuring secure operations.

7. Support Infrastructure:

   • Shore Power: Limited availability; most vessels rely on onboard generators.
   • Repair Facilities: Basic repair facilities are available; more extensive repairs might require services from nearby larger ports.
   • Storage: Warehouse and open storage areas for various types of cargo.
   • Logistics: Logistics services including customs brokerage and freight forwarding.

8. Connectivity:

   • Road Links: Well-connected via local road networks to the rest of Tortola and other parts of the BVI.
   • Air Links: The nearest airport is Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS), located on Beef Island, connected to Tortola by the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge.

9. Environmental Considerations:

   • Protected Marine Environment: The BVI prioritizes the preservation of its marine environment, and port operations adhere to strict environmental standards.

10. Future Developments:

    • Plans and proposals may exist for expansion and modernization of facilities to enhance capacity and efficiency, especially to cater to the growing tourism and maritime traffic.

Local Highlights:

• Road Town is a charming town with a mix of colonial and modern architecture, shopping, dining, and tourist attractions. It is a popular starting point for yachting adventures around the BVI.

This port plays a crucial role in the economy and connectivity of the British Virgin Islands, supporting both local livelihoods and the tourism industry that thrives in this Caribbean paradise.