Traveling to the British Virgin Islands (BVI) can be an adventure in itself, with several options to consider. Whether you choose to fly directly to Tortola or to St. Thomas with a ferry connection, each route has its own advantages. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you decide the best way to get to the BVI.
Flying Directly to Tortola
Flying directly to Beef Island Airport on Tortola (EIS) is the most straightforward option, and recent additions to flight services have made this more convenient than before.
Key Points:
- Airport Code: EIS (Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport)
- Flight Routes:
- NEW! American Airlines now offers nonstop flights from Miami (MIA) to Tortola (EIS)
- Additional connections through San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU)
- Connections via Saint Maarten (SXM)
- Connections through St. Thomas (STT)
- Aircraft: Flights to EIS typically use smaller aircraft. On regional connections, expect planes that may hold as few as 7-20 passengers. The new American Airlines service uses larger aircraft.
Arrival:
- Immigration: Clearing immigration at EIS is generally quick and efficient
- Taxi Ride: Upon arrival, you’ll need a taxi to your hotel or charter company
- Fares range from $10 to $50 depending on your destination
- Journey times vary from 15-45 minutes depending on where you’re headed
- Taxi rates are per person and set by the government
- Check current taxi fares here
Flying to St. Thomas and Taking the Ferry
Flying to Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas (STT) and then taking a ferry to Tortola remains popular and can be cost-effective despite the extra leg. The ferry ride is beautiful.
Key Points:
- Airport Code: STT
- Flight Availability: St. Thomas has more flight options from major US and international cities, often with only one connection
Transfer Process:
- Arrival & Immigration: Clear US immigration and customs in St. Thomas
- Taxi to Ferry: Take a taxi to either:
- Charlotte Amalie ferry dock (10 minutes, approximately $20 per person)
- Red Hook ferry terminal (30-40 minutes, $30 per person)
- Ferry Options:
- Public Ferries: Several companies operate regular services
- Schedule: Ferries typically run 3-5 times daily
- Duration: 45-60 minutes depending on sea conditions
- Cost: Approximately $60 round-trip per person
- Tickets: Can be purchased online in advance or at the terminal
Private Water Taxi Option
For more flexibility and comfort, consider a private water taxi from St. Thomas directly to your BVI destination.
- Pick-up Points: Either from Charlotte Amalie or Red Hook
- Benefits:
- Direct service to your specific destination, might save you a taxi ride on Tortola
- Flexible departure times
- Assistance with luggage and immigration
- Often a more comfortable ride
- Cost: $400-700 depending on group size and destination
- Recommended Providers:
Comparing Your Options
| Direct to Tortola (EIS) | Via St. Thomas + Ferry | Via St. Thomas + Private Water Taxi |
|---|---|---|
| Limited but improving with new AA nonstop | Abundant from many origins | Abundant from many origins |
| Fastest door-to-door option | Adds 2-3 hours for transfer and ferry | Adds 1-2 hours for transfer |
| Typically more expensive flights | More economical flights + $60 ferry | More economical flights + $400-700 water taxi |
| Most straightforward | Requires coordination with ferry schedule | Most convenient but requires advance booking |
| Once at departure, once at arrival | Multiple transfers required | Assistance provided throughout journey |
| Views from air only | Beautiful ferry crossing | Premium island-hopping experience |
Best For Different Travelers
- First-time visitors: Consider the ferry option for a gradual introduction to island life
- Families with children: Direct flights to EIS or private water taxi recommended
- Budget travelers: St. Thomas + public ferry offers most savings
- Luxury travelers: Private water taxi provides the most comfortable experience
- Business travelers: Direct flights to EIS maximize efficiency
Travel Tips
- Timing: Allow ample connection time if flying through San Juan or St. Thomas
- Documentation: Bring passport and return/onward tickets for immigration
- Ferry Schedule: Check the latest schedules as they change seasonally
- Weather: Be aware that rough seas can occasionally affect ferry services
- Luggage: Pack light if taking the ferry option
- Customs: Be prepared for customs checks when entering the BVI
Conclusion
The new American Airlines nonstop service from Miami has made flying directly to Tortola more convenient than ever before. However, each travel option has distinct advantages:
- For Simplicity and Convenience: Fly directly to Tortola (EIS)
- For Cost and Flexibility: Fly to St. Thomas (STT) and take the ferry
- For Premium Experience: Fly to St. Thomas and arrange a private water taxi
No matter which option you choose, your journey to the British Virgin Islands will be the beginning of an unforgettable Caribbean adventure!
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