Dock and Dine: Restaurants to Visit Via Boat in the British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are a sailor’s paradise filled with shimmering turquoise waters, gentle trade winds and countless coves perfect for dropping anchor. But what makes cruising these islands even more unforgettable is the abundance of dock and dine spots where you can sail right up, tie up or moor and enjoy fresh island flavors with a view.
Whether you’re sailing around the Sir Francis Drake Channel, sightseeing on Tortola, diving and snorkeling off of Jost Van Dyke or enjoying a luxury sailing charter, here are seven can’t-miss restaurants in the BVIs for great food and nautical convenience. Check out boat slips for rent near me to find an anchorage for exploring the islands.
Nova (Oil Nut Bay, Virgin Gorda)
Nova isn’t just a restaurant, it’s an experience. Set over the water in Oil Nut Bay’s Marina Village, Nova serves fresh, global-inspired dishes like sushi, lobster tacos and tropical cocktails. Boaters can dock right at the full-service marina and enjoy amenities such as fuel, showers, slips, moorings and provisioning. Overwater hammocks and a suspended pool make it perfect for a long, lazy lunch.
Saba Rock (North Sound, Virgin Gorda)
A North Sound classic, Saba Rock offers upscale island dining with unbeatable views and a lively atmosphere. Accessible only by boat or ferry, this small island restaurant and boutique resort is perfect for a stopover between snorkeling spots. Enjoy fresh fish, handcrafted cocktails and a breezy, social vibe before cruising or sailing back to your private boat lift rental, marina or resort. The marina has tender service and moorings nearby.
Cooper Island Beach Club (Cooper Island)
Accessible only by boat, Cooper Island Beach Club is a favorite among sailors looking for great food in a relaxed setting. The menu focuses on local ingredients and sustainability. Think: fresh catch of the day, coconut ceviche, house-made ice cream and locally brewed beer from their microbrewery (try the Cooper Island Blonde Ale). Mooring balls are available just offshore.
The Willy T (Norman Island)
If you’re looking for a party vibe, the William Thornton, affectionately known as “The Willy T,” is a floating bar and restaurant that’s pure BVI energy. Expect hearty pub food, tropical drinks and spontaneous dives off the deck into the sea. It’s a must-do for adventurous sailors to visit from a private boat slip rental or resort. Access is by dinghy only; you can anchor or moor nearby.
Pirates Bight (Norman Island)
For family-friendly dining on Norman Island, Pirates Bight is the perfect spot. Dine with your feet in the sand while perusing a menu of Caribbean favorites, including grilled snapper, ribs, salads and creative cocktails. Dinghy access is available from nearby moorings.
Soggy Dollar Bar (White Bay, Jost Van Dyke)
The Soggy Dollar Bar, on Jost Van Dyke, is a legendary beach bar famous for inventing the Painkiller cocktail (this delicious drink is made with a blend of dark rum, pineapple juice, orange juice, cream of coconut and a sprinkle of ground nutmeg). Accessible mainly by boat, visitors wade ashore with “soggy dollars” in hand. With its lively music, laid-back vibe and stunning White Bay views, it’s a must-stop for Caribbean cruisers and beach lovers to head to from a private boat dock rental or marina.
Red Rock Restaurant & Bar (Penn’s Landing Marina, Tortola)
Are you looking for Caribbean fusion with sunset views? Located in Fat Hog’s Bay at Penn’s Landing Marina, Red Rock combines a relaxed vibe with sophisticated food. Sailors can moor or dock nearby and walk right up to the open-air terrace for freshly caught seafood, house-made pizzas and an excellent wine list. Slips and moorings are available in Fat Hog’s Bay.
