Private Art & Culture Tour in Tortola Virgin Islands
Active
2h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This is the only Tour of its kind available on Tortola which showcases prominent practicing Artists and their work. Small, private groups keep this tour very intimate and interactive which allows you to develop a bond with the artists/guides. The added option features of bread baking(*Must book 2 days in advance for bread baking option*) and clay play allows for great fun, memorable experiences and good photo opportunities! On this tour you will have a true Virgin Island experience as the guides/artists are locals who are passionate about their craft and islands. Having the chance to view and purchase beautiful, authentic local art work created by locals is sadly becoming a rare thing in The Virgin Islands but this tour gives you that chance!
Available options
A&C Tour + Clay play + Baking
Baking + Clay Play: Bread baking @ Jenesis Studio & Clay Play @ The Pottery Garden! **Must book 2 days in advance for bread baking option**<br/>Pickup included
Art & Culture Tour Pro
Bread Baking & Clay play: Bread baking @Jenesis Studios & Clay Play @The Pottery Garden **Must book 2 days in advance for bread baking option**<br/>Duration: 2 hours: times may vary depending on lunch or beach<br/>local lunch + custom sights: local lunch and chosen extra sight stops<br/>beach stop: a dip at a beautiful tropical beach<br/>choose between lunch or beach<br/>Pickup included
Art & Culture Tour + Clay Play
Clay Play: Have a chance on the potter's wheel at the pottery garden<br/>Pickup included
Art & Culture Tour + Baking
Bread Baking at Jenesis Studio: Observe baking in a traditional oven and sample the goods when complete! **Must book 2 days in advance for this option**<br/>Pickup included
The Art & Culture Tour
Pickup included
What's included
Seating - customize your tour by selecting forward facing seating or sit facing each other
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Binoculars for bird watching at Josiah's Bay Pond
Detailed itinerary
1
Local Artist Reuben Vanterpool takes you on a cultural journey guiding you through his garden, museum/gallery & traditional oven bakery. Here you can get a taste of Virgin Island life before the 1960's. The facility also includes a mini gift shop & snacket.
Mr. Vanterpool is one of the most prominent Artist in the Virgin Is. practicing for over 45 years and mainly works in oil/acrylic on canvas. Many of his beautiful paintings illustrates the early life and culture of the Virgin Is.
Jenesis Studios is truly a gem of culture and is well worth the visit.
*Added Option* - Bread Baking
Observe baking in a traditional oven and sample the goods when complete, along with other goodies! +$20
2
Local Ceramic Artist Karl Burnett shows you around his pottery grounds "The Pottery Garden" where you'll be immersed in an "earthmade experience".
Karl explains his journey as a mainly self taught potter, talks about his making processes and explains his impressive wood fired kiln which is covered in local stone.
Take a guided walk through his workshop where the excitement kicks up a notch with live demonstrations on the potter's wheel and other pottery production techniques!
After seeing how the pots are made browse around the quaint studio gallery featuring Karl's handmade pieces for sale where you can purchase a keepsake to remember your visit.
Karl Burnett is the best known and only local potter in practice on Tortola.
The Pottery Garden is a pottery studio placed in a tropical garden just a few minutes away from beautiful Josiah's Bay beach and is an experience you won't regret!
*Added Option* - Clay play
Get a try at the wheel during the demo section of the tour + $5
3
Sightseeing & stops at points of interest
Take in beautiful views and learn Virgin Islands history and culture on a relaxing drive between studios.
See a historical ruin and visit the salt pond at Josiah's bay where you can see flamingos and other bird life(binoculars included).
What's not included
*Added Option* at Jenesis Studio - Bread Baking for $20(must book 2 days in advance for this option)
*Added Option* - Clay play for $12 at Pottery Garden
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
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Tripadvisor
5.0
14 reviews
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Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
At the parking lot of the Road Town Jetty/Ferry dock
About Tortola
Tortola is the largest and most populous island in the British Virgin Islands, known for its stunning natural beauty, lush green mountains, and pristine beaches. It's a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking a relaxed Caribbean island experience.
Top Attractions
Mount Sage National Park
This national park offers stunning views of the island and is home to various plant and animal species. It's a great place for hiking and birdwatching.
Nature
2-3 hours
Free
J.R. O'Neill National Park
This park features beautiful beaches, lush vegetation, and historical ruins. It's a great place for a picnic or a relaxing day by the water.
Nature
Half day
Free
Road Town
The capital of the British Virgin Islands, Road Town offers a mix of shopping, dining, and historical sites. It's a great place to experience the local culture.
Cultural
Half day
Free to explore
Soper's Hole
A charming harbor village with a rich history, Soper's Hole is home to various shops, restaurants, and boat charters. It's a great place to experience the island's maritime culture.
Cultural
Half day
Free to explore
The Baths
Located on the nearby island of Virgin Gorda, The Baths is a must-visit attraction featuring giant granite boulders, hidden caves, and beautiful beaches. It's a great place for swimming, snorkeling, and exploring.
Nature
Full day
Ferry: BVI $20-$30 per person, Park entry: BVI $5 per person
Must-Try Local Dishes
Fungie
A traditional BVI side dish made from cornmeal, flour, and salt, often served with fish or other dishes.
Side dish
Vegetarian, can be made vegan
Callaloo
A leafy green vegetable similar to spinach, often cooked with onions, garlic, and spices.
Side dish
Vegetarian, can be made vegan
Conch
A local delicacy, conch is a type of seafood that can be prepared in various ways, such as in chowder, fritters, or salads.
Main dish
Contains shellfish
Rum Punch
A classic Caribbean cocktail made with rum, fruit juices, and a splash of grenadine.
Drink
Contains alcohol
Popular Activities
Hiking
Snorkeling
Scuba diving
Boat tours
ATV rentals
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the best time to visit Tortola, with pleasant weather and lower humidity. It's the peak tourist season, so expect more crowds and higher prices.
24-29°C
75-84°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Creole
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
AST (UTC-4)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
The British Virgin Islands are generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a welcoming local population. However, visitors should still take precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious when using ATMs and handling cash
- • Avoid walking alone at night in poorly lit or isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport • 3 km from Road Town
By bus
Road Town
Getting around
Public transport
Safari buses are the main form of public transport on Tortola. They are cheap and convenient, but can be crowded during peak hours.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Not commonly used
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Road Town
West End
East End
Cane Garden Bay
Day trips
Virgin Gorda
3 km from Tortola • Half day to full day
Virgin Gorda is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the famous Baths, a unique geological formation featuring giant granite boulders and hidden caves.
Jost Van Dyke
5 km from Tortola • Full day
Jost Van Dyke is a small, laid-back island known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant nightlife, and rum bars.
Anegada
24 km from Tortola • Full day
Anegada is a unique island known for its coral and limestone composition, as well as its beautiful beaches and lobster fishing industry.
Festivals
Road Town Festival • Early August
BVI Music Festival • Late April to early May
Emancipation Day • August 1
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder season (May-June, November) to avoid crowds and enjoy lower prices.
- Rent a car to explore the island's hidden gems and scenic drives.
- Try local dishes like fungie, callaloo, and conch for an authentic taste of the islands.
- Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect the marine environment and your skin.
- Explore the island's national parks and nature reserves for stunning views and outdoor activities.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
