Tips for an affordable visit to an expensive island: If only visiting Road Bay by boat, there is no fee for vessels under 20 tons. $56USD/day for a cruising permit otherwise. Yes, there are nice areas to see, but truthfully, Road Bay has a lot to offer. Very nice beach with many beach bars & restaurants with free wifi, clean water to swim or snorkel, and the launch to Sandy Island departs from the main dock.

There are toilets and showers on the beach. There are two small supermarkets in South Hill, just a 15-20 min walk. If you are up to it, you can walk over to Crocus/Little Bay. Car/quad rentals require a local drivers license costing 20USD. See Alex at Dad’s restaurant beach bar for info on her friend who rents cars for 30USD/day. Our two favourite beach bars were Elvis’s at the far north end, and Dad’d in the middle.

Both have food, drink, live music and free wifi. Some of the most pleasant customs/immigration officials we have met in the Caribbean! They are located right at the foot of the dock and open 7 days/week with no overtime charges for weekend clearance.
Travis and Joanne
s/v Calico Jack

Further info. on the cruising permit from the above user. If your boat is over 20 tons the price is even higher per day. There are no discounts for multiple days. Another way of seeing the marina park is by taking a powerboat (to the beautiful Sandy Island) for only 10 USD for the round trip per person.