Soper's Hole
A sheltered harbour at Tortola's western end, with a painted waterfront and a pirate past.
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Soper's Hole is a deep sheltered inlet at Tortola's western end, protected by Frenchman's Cay across its mouth, and it was used by privateers and pirates in the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries for exactly that reason. It is now a marina and ferry terminal, with a row of painted West Indian-style buildings along the southern shore holding shops and restaurants, and the ferry to St Thomas leaves from the northern side.
What you actually see
- The sheltered inlet - the deep harbour protected by Frenchman's Cay.
- The painted waterfront - the row of West Indian-style buildings on the south shore.
- The marina - the yacht basin filling the inlet.
- The pirate history - the anchorage's use by privateers and pirates.
When to go
December to May is the season. Ferries to St Thomas run daily with reduced winter service. Hurricane season runs June to November.
Honest expectations
The painted waterfront is a modern development in traditional style rather than historic fabric. It is busy with ferry traffic. Prices in the shops are high.
Nearby
Fort Recovery is south, and Long Bay is northeast.
What to pack for Soper's Hole
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.