Discover Whistling Cay

Whistling Cay is a 19-acre islet just off Mary Point along the North Shore separated from the mainland by what is known as Fungi Passage, a common waterway used by boaters. This not-so-visited gem is inside the Virgin Island’s National Park and houses the ruins of a stone structure with a rich history. If those walls could talk, our guess is they would have plenty to say.

Originally constructed in the 1800s, this building once served as a watch station to capture slaves seeking refuge from St. John to the British Virgin Islands. According to the Danish National Archives, the owner of nearby Thatch Island (Richard Callwood) appealed to the governor to assist with a number of reported slaves arriving on his property.

Following the slave revolt and emancipation, the structure was then transformed into a customs house that inspected vessels for smuggling and reportedly evading taxes. What remains of the guardhouse was rebuilt in 1972 as part of a restoration project for the National Park Service.

Now the island is a lesser known snorkeling spot which can be accessed by boat charter or renting kayaks from nearby Maho or Cinnamon outfitters. Home to a variety of fish from nurse sharks to tarpon, as well as coral beds in the underwater canyons.

How did Whistling Cay get its name? At one point, prevailing winds did indeed whistle. Part of the isle is covered with cliffs, however, there is a rocky beach on the southeast side to pull your vessel ashore. Next time you are up for an adventure, check out Whistling Cay. Just be sure to exercise caution for current and boat traffic, or charter an experienced boat captain to show you the ropes.