The British Virgin Islands Virtual Reality Aquatics Experience has been honoured with a 2026 International Telly Award, recognising excellence in immersive and mixed-reality storytelling. Photo: BVITBFC

The international recognition underscores the Virgin Islands’ commitment to embracing cutting-edge digital technologies to showcase the Territory’s unparalleled natural beauty, vibrant culture, and world-class tourism offerings to global audiences. Photo: BVITB

The award was presented in the Craft – Use of 360 Video category, which celebrates innovative approaches to digital storytelling and audience engagement through immersive technology.

This international recognition underscores the Virgin Islands’ commitment to embracing cutting-edge digital technologies to showcase the Territory’s unparalleled natural beauty, vibrant culture, and world-class tourism offerings to global audiences.

The award comes on the heels of the recent opening of the Virtual Reality Interactive Guest Experience Museum at Crafts Alive Village in Road Town, Tortola. This further highlights the territory’s "growing investment in immersive tourism experiences. Together, these initiatives strengthen the British Virgin Islands’ reputation as a forward-thinking destination and a leader in innovative tourism marketing," BVITBFC stated in a press release on June 29, 2026.

'Strong validation'

Director of Tourism Clive L. McCoy commented that the use of 360-degree immersive and mixed-reality video has created a truly remarkable and interactive guest experience, and that the award reflects the creativity, innovation, and dedication of everyone involved in bringing the project to life.

"This award serves as a strong validation of our investment in innovative technologies and immersive storytelling experiences. We are proud to continue exploring new ways to connect with travellers and showcase the beauty, culture, and uniqueness of the British Virgin Islands. The award-winning Virtual Reality Aquatics Experience offers audiences an engaging and immersive journey through the Territory’s stunning marine environment, providing a unique opportunity to experience the British Virgin Islands in a way that transcends traditional tourism marketing.”

Mr McCoy also extended special appreciation to Ms Vionie Pickering, Product Director, for her vision and leadership in championing the Virtual Reality Museum project. He further acknowledged Mr Ed Limon, Creative Director, and the production team at Winged Whale Media for their exceptional creative execution of the immersive film and for successfully submitting the project to the 49th Annual Telly Awards.