Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), right, and Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism Hon Luce D. Hodge-Smith (R4), left, try out the VR headsets at the Virtual Reality Museum launch on May 7, 2026. Photo: Office of the Premier

Mr Keith Dawson, Public Relations Manager for BVITB&FC, addresses the audience at the launch of the Virtual Reality Museum at Crafts Alive Village on Thursday, May 7, 2026. Photo: Office of the Premier

The VR Museum, according to the BVITBFC, represents a forward-thinking approach to tourism, providing an innovative platform for exploration, education, and engagement. Photo: Office of the Premier

The launch event, held at Crafts Alive Village on Thursday, May 7, welcomed key dignitaries including the Premier and Minister of Finance Dr the Hon Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism Hon Luce D. Hodge-Smith (R4), members of the House of Assembly, public officials, and tourism stakeholders.

Developed in collaboration with Winged Whale Media, a creative production company specialising in immersive storytelling and virtual reality, the VR Museum offers a dynamic new way to experience the Virgin Islands.

A compelling ‘taste of the BVI'- Clive L. McCoy

“Our Virtual Reality Museum introduces an exciting new product for both visitors and residents,” said Clive L. McCoy, Director of Tourism, via a press release on May 7.

“Through immersive technology, users can enjoy a compelling ‘taste of the BVI,’ inspiring them to visit and experience the destination firsthand. Beyond the museum, this innovation will enhance our global marketing efforts, allowing travel partners and trade show audiences to engage with a near-real BVI experience from anywhere in the world.”

The project was executed in two phases between 2025 and 2026. Phase One, completed in August 2025, focused on Tortola, capturing its marine life, cultural experiences, and natural beauty using advanced VR technology. Phase Two, to be finalised in July 2026, will expand to the sister islands of Virgin Gorda, Anegada, and Jost van Dyke, showcasing their iconic attractions, cultural heritage, and unique landscapes through immersive virtual environments.

Forward-thinking approach to tourism

The VR Museum, according to the BVITBFC, represents a forward-thinking approach to tourism, providing an innovative platform for exploration, education, and engagement. It aligns with the BVITBFC’s strategic goals to diversify tourism offerings, increase global visibility, and preserve the territory’s rich cultural and natural assets, BVITBFC added.

Key objectives of the VR Museum include: Showcasing the British Virgin Islands’ culture, history, and landscapes through immersive storytelling; Expanding global accessibility to the destination; Enhancing visitor engagement through innovative, technology-driven experiences; And serving as an educational resource for schools, residents, and visitors.

The VR Museum is open to the public every day from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Admission is $5.00 per person. The museum is cashless and accepts payment by credit card, debit card, or ATH only.

Visitors under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult.