Virgin Gorda Baths, British Virgin Islands

The Grandeur of the Seas' next stop today was the British Virgin Islands. I booked an excursion to the Virgin Gorda Baths for snorkeling and hiking. There was another excursion to the Baths without the snorkeling. I was looking forward to this activity, came prepared with my own mask and snorkel although the excursion operator supplied all equipment. Another STI member had booked the same excursion, and it was nice to have an excursion companion.

We boarded a boat right at the pier in Tortola, it took about 40 minutes to get to the Baths. We were told to snorkel to the beach, then hike to the other side to Devil's Bay while the boat moved there. There would be time for relaxing on the beach or more snorkeling before swimming back to the boat waiting for us. There was also a cafe on the island for those who wished to eat/drink (we were told, "bring cash").

The place was simply beautiful, day was sunny, waters were clear. There were some reef fish and corals, although not very colorful. The highlight was seeing a line of squid swimming one after another next to the ship during my return snorkel. I wish I had an underwater camera! The hike from the beach to the other side of the island was very interesting and somewhat strenuous. We had to climb over rocks, use steps with rope guides, bend down to go under rocks, all while carrying our fins, masks and snorkels. But the views were very rewarding, as can be seen in the photos below.

On the way back, the boat's mates offered punch with or without rum, and the captain played feet tapping disco music. All onboard had a great time! I was exhausted by the time I got back to the ship.