Matt Weidert
The Caves at Norman Island have a special allure due to their combination of rich pirate folklore, stunning underwater scenery, and serene waters.
What to do at the Caves, Norman Island?
The Caves are located on the western edge of Norman Island, in an area known as The Bight. This spot is accessible only by boat.
- Snorkeling: The primary activity at The Caves is snorkeling. There are several NPS mooring balls and one to tie of your dinghy. The area features three distinct caves, each offering a unique underwater experience. You will encounter a variety of marine life, including yellowtail snapper, puffer fish, trunkfish, parrotfish, sergeant majors, and possibly even a barracuda. If you enjoy snorkeling as much as we do, check out our post on the best snorkeling spots in the BVI.
- Norman Island Caves and Pirate Treasure: The caves on Norman Island are legendary for their hidden treasures. In 1750, the pirate ship Seaflower, commanded by Owen Lloyd, raided the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, stealing 44 chests filled with valuable items like pieces of eight, cochineal, and hides, valued at nearly 250,000 pieces of eight. The crew hid this treasure in the caves, sparking a frenzy among locals. Many eventually found the loot, which was later confiscated by British authorities and returned to the Spanish.
- Henry Creque's Unexpected Discovery: Adding to the allure, there's a local story about a fisherman named Henry Creque who, in the late 1800s, sought refuge in the caves during a storm. The waves bashed his boat against the cave walls, dislodging several rocks. Among the debris were gold doubloons, which led to significant changes in Creque's life. He moved to St. Thomas and opened a store in Charlotte Amalie, seemingly using the wealth he found in the cave.
The Caves are steeped in pirate legends, with stories suggesting they were used by pirates, including the infamous Blackbeard, to hide their treasures. While no treasure has been found in recent times, the mystique of these stories adds an exciting touch of adventure to exploring the caves.
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