Karl is such a gem and the entire experience was fantastic. If you are looking for something a little different than beach & water activities & want to see the island through the eyes of a local artist then consider booking this experience.
About Activity
What's Included
Includes
- Bottled water
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- pottery tools, materials and equipment
Excludes
- There is a separate fee if you desire to keep pieces made in class. $5-$20 depends on size/ weight
Departure & Return
Departure Point
- Transport Shuttle is a white van branded with The Pottery Garden's logo.
Itinerary
Guests are received at their desired staring point and shuttled in air conditioned comfort with historical information about the scenic drive to and from The Pottery Garden (coastal and ridge road). On arrival Potter/Instructor Karl Burnett gives an introduction of the grounds and himself as a ceramic artist. In the workshop, Karl explains the basics of pottery "hand building" techniques and then demonstrates making different shaped pieces on the potter's wheel. Now, it is your chance to get your hands in the clay! Have a try at the potter's wheel or hand build your own creation! After all the clay play fun, Karl shows you about his outdoor wood fired kiln and tropical garden. Browse through the studio gallery of beautiful handcrafted pottery on sale and get yourself a lovely gift as a reminder of your visit. **Only Pottery Class Opt.- Pick Up/Drop Off+Class. No Stops/1 Route**
Language Offered
Additional Info
Cancellation Policy
Reviews
Very friendly and informative guide. Spent time showing us the various portions of the island and shared the history. He was very helpful in teaching us the pottery wheel and techniques to make whatever shape of pottery we wanted. Would highly recommend as something different and fun to do.
We had the most wonderful experience in Tortola. Karl is the most amazing tour guide and a great teacher of pottery. We saw many of the sights and beautiful wall murals. We received personal instruction to make our own handcrafted pottery keepsakes. We rate this 10++++++
It was a great experience and would highly recommend it to all. My 8 year old granddaughter absolutely loved it and would do it again.
We had a lovely experience. Instructor was knowledgeable and engaging! Created new memories and a beautiful keepsake.
It was an amazing experience! Karl was so patient with us. We had such a wonderful time. 10/10 would definitely recommend.
Surrounded by the simple beauty of the Pottery Garden, an atmosphere of creativity, laughter and novelty was created. I had so much fun! Definitely a place to stop on isle of Tortola for both beginners and pros alike! Karl, with a K, lol, was so experienced, kind and all around super funny while conducting and interacting with our group. I truly appreciated his down-to-earth attitude and the ease in which he made everyone feel seen and heard. I would definitely head back for another go. Don't Walk, Run to the Pottery Garden!
Karl made arrangements to pick me up at the cruise ship port. His van was immaculately clean. He gave me a tour of the town and shared a lot of interesting history. After the tour, we went to his pottery studio. I had fun trying the pottery wheel. Karl helped me create a teacup that actually looks like a cup 😉. He’s going to finish the piece and send it to me. The US tariffs have made it difficult for him to send finished pieces to the United States, but he’s done some research and found a solution. It is more expensive, but he warned me of the shipping cost before I committed to the class. All in all, I had a really great time and I learned a lot. I would recommend this experienced for anybody. I’ll try to add a photo once I have the finished teacup.
A real down home experience to take you away from the ordinary. Even if you’re a klutz like I was, this being my first time ever, molding the clay is still very therapeutic and inspiring. I really love our pieces as well. Thanks Karl!
Karl was delightful from the moment he picked us up until he dropped us safely back off. We had a little emergency and my husband had to go back to the ship. Karl patiently waited with us at the port for him and then took us to his shop while detailing TONS of history and tidbits of info driving through the island. He was so kind, understanding, and knowledgeable with great teaching skill for myself and my husband and especially for my kiddos (12 and 8 years old). I don’t think they will ever forget this experience. They both enthusiastically agree that this was their favorite excursion of our 10 day voyage and one of their favorites ever. Thank you for a wonderful experience!
Excellent experience with Karl. Karl instructed my 12yo in forming his own pottery creation. Karl was kind and provided guidance and my kid had the best time. Best part, the creation was fired and glazed and sent to us in CA. 12yo says this was the best experience of the entire trip. Definitely visit The Pottery Garden and look for Karl.
I booked this of tour outside of the cruise offering because I needed something me and my 18 year old niece and I could do together and get me out of the sun because I had, had enough of sun things and I picked great. Karl our host, pottery treacher extraordinaire was waiting for us and we got off the ship early. He gave us a great tour of the city and history lesson. Then we went to his private studio where we got to learn, play, rock out (I had Spotify and we connected to his speaker), and make our pieces. He is a great teacher and a wonderful guy. We both (my niece and i) had a wonderful time. I might say this to keep your piece it is going to have to be shipped and you need to pay for it. It would be best if you had cash for that. If you have your own FedEx or ups number that would help in the shipping. Other than that I would do it again and tell my friends.
This experience was amazing! We arrived at the port and Karl picked us up and gave us an informative tour around the island, explaining Tortola’s history and most important sites. At the studio, we got to create our own unique vases on the pottery wheel. Everyone loved it! Even though we had never done pottery, Karl guided us successfully through with a lot of patience. At the end, we got a small tour of the Pottery Garden and saw a traditional kiln. We got our vases mailed to us, because when we left Karl painted them for us in a color that we picked. They look amazing! I would highly recommend the Pottery Garden for a memorable, family fun experience!
We had a really great afternoon with Karl. He picked us up from our hotel and brought us back afterwards. It was my daughter’s 16th birthday so we were looking for a fun and special experience. Did a tour of the island and then a class at his studio. Everyone made something and Karl’s instructions were easy to follow and fun. Both the adults and kids said it was a great experience and we learned so much about the island, enriching our trip. Can’t wait to receive our artwork in the mail!
Karl is welcoming and relaxed. He gave us all the instruction we needed and the freedom to create whatever we wanted. It was perfect for our group of 5 adults. My husband tried the wheel. The rest of us did handwork. Everyone left happy. I'd do it again.
I’ve never considered myself an artistic person, but I wanted to tap into my creative side;and this pottery class was the perfect experience. Karl was an amazing teacher. In our small group of eight, he took the time to explain the history and practical uses of pottery, making the experience both educational and engaging. He was incredibly attentive, ensuring each of us felt confident and capable of creating something whether using handmade techniques or the pottery wheel that we could truly be proud of. His patience and guidance made all the difference. Thank you for a wonderful and inspiring experience!
This was our second time attending this amazing pottery class. Karl is very patient and always takes the time to explain the techniques. The experience is truly enjoyable, and I highly recommend it. I came with my partner and my dad, and Karl made it really special for all of us.
Karl picked us up at the dock and gave us a well informed and historical tour on the way to his charming pottery studio located in the jungle. The surrounding plants were spectacular. Karl was an expert at teaching the pottery techniques we needed to create our pieces. He prepared the clay and helped us learn to use the pottery wheel. I haven’t thrown a pot in 40 years, but I was able to create a cute and functional mug! He will fire the pieces, glaze them, I chose blues and greens, and ship them to our house. He then took us back to the dock area where his retail shop was and we bought a couple of beautiful mugs from him. There were bowls and plates, vases and mugs to choose from. We then were dropped off near the ship. The whole experience was really really fun and well worth the price.
Karl is the best and this was one of my favorite activities I did throughout my entire trip! My family was not interested in doing this but Karl allowed me to come to his shop as an individual, despite there being a 2 person minimum reservation count. This was my first time leaving the main 48 states and as a female solo traveler, I admit I was a little nervous meeting at first. He was on time and picked me up at the exact spot we discussed. He was nothing but kind and friendly. He took me around the town doing a mini tour, explaining a lot of things around the area and answered any questions I had. He was so patient and encouraging with me when we got to his shop and he was showing me how to make my project. After we were done, he offered to paint (with my complicated specifications) and ship my item. Upon leaving, he dropped me off at some beautiful places to get some photos that he helped take via my phone. Eventually we made our way back to the boat and we were on time. His communication through email is great, his professionalism is amazing and I cannot recommend him enough. If you like pottery, this is a MUST do experience!
It was a fun experience and we absolutely learned a lot, the studio had a calm, welcoming atmosphere especially the dogs clay and I can’t remember the other one they were so sweet. It was well-equipped, and I loved the peaceful environment.
My family really enjoyed the Pottery Garden experience with Karl. He is such a knowledgeable artist, teacher and historian of all things Tortola! We loved throwing clay on the potter's wheel and getting our hands on clay experience. None of us had ever done this and we agreed that after this great first try with Karl that we would do it again!! Highly recommend!
My visit to The Pottery Garden in the British Virgin Islands was truly enjoyable. The experience offered a unique blend of creativity and personal interaction. One of the highlights of this experience was the freedom to choose what we wanted to create. Whether opting for the potter's wheel or hand-building techniques, Karl provided personalized guidance that allowed us to express our creativity. His guidance and patience provided a comfortable experience that inspired our individual styles.
Had a great time at the Pottery Garden! I have always wanted to try pottery, and while on vacation in Tortola I had the opportunity to go to the Pottery Garden. We were a group of 6 and Karl was excellent at explaining all the different techniques and spending time with each of us. I was very happy with what I made. Will definitely go back the next time I am there. Definitely worth it.
We had a fantastic time! Karl is very kind and knowledgeable. He let us be creative but helped us when we needed it. I can’t wait to see my finished piece! This is my second time and I will definitely return.
It was a great experience. I went in December and Karl help me so much. He was patient and kind. Thank you again Karl!
My friends and I visited The Pottery Garden as a birthday activity and it was hands down one of the best things I’ve ever experienced . Karl was very knowledgeable, patient, helpful and an overall gem throughout the entire process. We had so much fun and we’re definitely returning. I would 10/10 recommend for the entire family.
Karl was wonderful and very patient with a first timer like myself. He spent extra time with us showing us around the island and giving us a very thorough history lesson of tortola.
This excursion was the highlight of our Caribbean vacation. Karl was an exceptional guide and teacher - fun, informative, and creative. The pottery making experience was a blast - and the tour of the island was great. Don’t wait to book this tour - do yourself a favor and do it immediately!
Lovely experience at the Pottery Garden . Karl is very friendly and makes the experience very fun and easy to follow along. Highly recommend this as your next activity suitable for the whole family!
It was a great experience. My second time and certainly will not be my last. Looking for something meaningful to do, look no further!
Took my friend as part of a her birthday gift. She definitely enjoyed as it was her first time putting her hands in clay and actually making something. She loved the experience from beginning to end. And when she received her work of art after curing she was elated. Thanks for the experience
One of my favorite places to visit! Karl is very knowledgeable and skilled. Whether it’s on the wheel or free-hand, you’re sure to have an enjoyable experience. The greenery around the property is an added bonus as it sets the tone of a relaxed atmosphere.
This was both an informative and really fun experience with Karl at the Pottery Garden! It was about 2 hours long but his sense of humor made the time fly by. I would recommend this to anyone. I thought it was also pretty affordable. Thanks again Karl!
Love this gem of a studio and Karl is friendly and a good pottery teacher. Watching him throw a tall pot on the wheel was amazing as he makes it look so easy. We had fun trying our hand and managed to make a small pot on the wheel. We definitely want to come back for more instruction.
I absolutely loved my Pottery making experience. I was seeking an activity to relax my nerves and revive my energy and this experience was exactly what I needed. I made a beautiful bowl, learned how to shape it on the Pottery wheel and returned to paint it once it was dry a few days later. I painted it then returned again once it was fired and ready for collection. I highly recommend Karl and his therapeutic Pottery business and experience. Don't wait, Book Your session!
This was fabulous.....I always recommend this pottery tour / experience to any and everyone.....Karl was knowledgeable and witty . We had a great time and I have my bowls even though they are wonkie lolllllll that's the fun part......
I have commissioned pottery artwork and bespoke pieces from Karl and have always appreciated his responsiveness to concepts that build on some of his current and past works. He is a talented artist and his studio is always a wonderful experience to visit. His works draw from local landscapes or traditional pottery. I highly recommend his studio and the experience of learning from him.
This was a great experience i was welcomed with warm smiles and great energy. This was an hands on experience and the tour was great. I appreciate the last minute appointment and the time they took to make sure we were taken care of.
Amazing experience!! Relaxing and fun. Will definitely go back for the 100th time lol. I recommend the Pottery Garden to all.
We had a great experience visiting the pottery and went ahead to order several sconces. We now have them in one of our villas and they are greatly admired.
This was a magnificent experience! Karl was such a patient teacher and I have to brag a little because he said I caught on quick😁. The best part about the tour and class was Klay (his dog). I would absolutely attend again but make a bigger vase next time☺️
Having had a number of private pottery classes in the BVI (Tortola, more specifically) to date, the Pottery Garden has by far been my favourite! Located near Josiahs Bay Beach, the studio is nestled in a cozy nook surrounded by lush greenery and serene quietude. The tranquil atmosphere is only bolstered by Karl's apparent passion for his art, teaching, and spreading the joy of what he does others. He is a talented, engaging, informed and incredibly patient potter and teacher. I have since returned alongside family and friends of all different ages and backgrounds, and they have all had amazing experiences! If you are looking for a fun, affordable, wholesome (or not so wholesome - 'Taboo' classes are a blast!) and novel pottery experience in the BVI, the Pottery Garden has got you covered! I recommend to both locals and visitors alike; you won't be disappointed !
The class was really informative, as a beginner with pottery I had no idea what to expect but the environment was great and really relaxed. The instructor gave us the option to work with our hands or try the pottery wheel and he was very patient with explaining the techniques. We just prepared our items and chose our colours, he will fire and paint them and they are usually ready within the month. We brought a cooler with some drinks to enjoy which was fine with him, all in all it was so much fun to create something and a nice way to spend the afternoon.
I took my younger cousins there and they enjoyed it a lot. Karl was also very accommodating and I really appreciate that.
Karl is a wonderful teacher. Very funny and knowledgeable. He made it an amazing experience. Clay, a very good doggo, was great as well.
This was a very fun experience learning how to make pottery for the first time. The instructor was thorough and hands on when necessary but simultaneously gave you space to learn. Karl was charismatic and informative. Would definitely come back
Book this experience! You won’t regret it! Karl was an excellent teacher and tour guide. He met us at the dock of our cruise ship and gave us a driving tour of the island on the way to the Pottery Garden. Once there he taught us the art of pottery & then it was time to get our hands dirty! We had 3 adults & 2 kids (ages 7 & 10). He was so patient & was even able to teach us to use a pottery wheel. We all had the best time making pottery & learning some new techniques in working with clay! Afterwards we drove a different way back to the cruise port so we could see even more of the island. You can tell Karl loves his work & the whole experience was beyond our expectations. Karl was easy to communicate with prior to the experience (planning it) and was able to accommodate our cruise port schedule. Book early because I’m sure this will fill up fast during busy season! I’m so happy we found this unique adventure ❤️ I’m looking forward to receiving our finished pieces in the mail (he needs time to glaze & fire them) once we’re home! My daughter now wants a pottery wheel & kiln 😂
Everything about this spontaneous trip to the Pottery Barn was amazing! The owner had great customer service, very helpful, offered free tips to perfect my pieces, and most of all he has a great personality! This my first time at a pottery class and I certainly won’t be my last. I advise everyone traveling to the island to stop by, you won’t be disappointed.
Learning how to throw pottery for the very first time with Karl was an incredible time! I have been wanting to learn for a really long time but could never find anything back home. I was thrilled to find this opportunity in Tortola which was that much more special. Karl is very knowledgeable, friendly and patient to help you make something you will love to bring home. I will definitely go again next time I go to Tortola!
This was the absolute best independent shore excursion that we have ever done!! Karl was so patient when he was teaching us what to do. He was so knowledgeable in the art of making pottery, you can tell he loves what he does and has the desire to share it with others!! Not only did we make the most beautiful pottery, we were taught the basics of the art of pottery making!! We got our pieces mailed to us and picked out a couple of pieces that he made and he gladly mailed them to us!! Karl was the best host, we thought that we were just getting a pottery class but it was so much more!! He gave us a tour on the way to the studio as well on the way back to the ship with such interesting facts about the island!! We will definitely be back to the island and will be sure to book another tour with Karl!! You will not be disappointed, great excursions for all ages!! This tour made our cruise!!
Monday through Friday 9 am to 7 pm EST
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