Norman Island is the BVI's treasure island, in legend if not in fact. The story goes that Robert Louis Stevenson drew on its tales of buried pirate gold, and the name Treasure Point on the island's southwest coast keeps the legend alive. Beneath the cliffs there, a group of sea caves opens straight onto the water, and snorkelers float into the dark mouths to see schools of silversides, sergeant majors and sometimes squid flickering in the torchlight. A short sail away, The Indians is a cluster of red-brown rock pinnacles rising from the sea, and the reef at their base has coral, sponges and fish that make it one of the most reliable snorkel stops in the islands. The shared sailing and snorkel trip leaves from Tortola, covers the caves and The Indians when conditions allow, and also visits Pirates Bight on the island's other side.
Snorkeling at the caves is easiest with a calm sea and a guide, because swells can surge into the openings. The boat usually moors at a buoy by Treasure Point, and the crew lead everyone along the rock face. Take a light torch if the crew allow it, since the shallow caves go dark quickly.
The Indians offer deeper, clearer snorkeling around the outcrop, with a patch of coral close to the rocks, and you should keep an eye on boat traffic and current. Fins are helpful, and a life vest is a good idea for anyone who is not a confident swimmer.
Pirates Bight, on the western arm of Norman Island, is the beach club and bar that many boats visit for lunch. Anchored boats gather in the bay, and a floating bar and restaurant have been part of the scene for years. A shared sail typically includes a buffet lunch and an open bar, and since the stops depend on wind and sea, read the booking page for the current itinerary and inclusions before you go.
For best results, travel in high season on a weekday and take your own mask if you have one that fits well. Reef-safe sunscreen, a rash vest and a waterproof camera round out the kit. Please do not touch the coral or feed the fish, and keep sunscreen off if you are about to enter the caves. The trip is physical enough that children under about eight may need a guardian in the water beside them, and the sail suits couples and groups of friends as well as families with older children.
What to expect
The experience
A shared sailing and snorkel day with stops at the Caves, The Indians and Pirates Bight, with lunch and an open bar on board.
Best time
A calm, sunny day in high season, when visibility is good and the caves are easiest to enter.
How long
About six hours.
Tips
Bring a snug mask if you own one, wear a rash vest, use reef-safe sunscreen and follow the crew's briefing at the caves.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Snorkelers who want the best-known reef and cave stops in a single easy day.
- Families
- Good for confident older children; younger ones should wear vests and stay close to an adult.
- Couples
- Quiet drift snorkeling at The Indians, then drinks at Pirates Bight.
- Pair with
- The Baths on another day or a beach afternoon at Cane Garden Bay.
- Time needed
- A full day.
Good questions
Is it really the island from Treasure Island?+
Local lore links Norman Island to Stevenson's story and to buried pirate treasure, but it is legend rather than proven fact. The caves are real and spectacular either way.
Do I need to be a strong swimmer?+
You should be comfortable in open water, though life vests are normally available. Let the crew know if you are unsure and stay close to the boat.
What will I see?+
Expect schools of small silvery fish in the caves and a mix of reef fish, coral and sometimes turtles around The Indians.
Is food included?+
The tour page describes a buffet lunch and an open bar, but menus and inclusions can change, so check it when booking.
What if the caves are closed by swell?+
The crew may replace a stop if the sea is too rough to be safe. They will usually offer a nearby alternative snorkel site.
