Getting to the British Virgin Islands!
The British Virgin Islands are one of the most exclusive places in the world where you can have your sailing adventure. One of the things that makes this area so special is that it is not easy to get to! When arriving in the British Virgin Islands on your sailing vacation, there are two main ways to arrive.
Way 1: The St Thomas Airport (Airport Code: STT)
The more common way to get into the British Virgin Islands for your sailing vacation is to fly in St Thomas (airport code: STT). If you chose the St Thomas Airport route you need to plan to take a ferry over to Tortola, the main island of the BVI. If you are arriving the same day you need to be over in the British Virgin Islands, you need to plan to arrive before 4pm, because that is when the last ferry usually leaves St Thomas.
When you get off the plane in St Thomas, you will be greeted by some locals with rum shots while you wait for your baggage.
After you have collected your luggage and enjoyed your rum shot. You will make your way to your hotel for the night or to the ferry terminal. If you are heading to the ferry, it should be about a 15 minute ride. Make sure you have some cash with you and make sure to tell the driver you are going to the Ferry Terminal, not the cruise terminal. Below are some photos of what the taxi area looks like. Most of the taxis are vans, but you may get lucky and get a nice open air taxi! Expect to share a ride with other people.
Area where you find taxis in at the St Thomas Airport
Most taxis in St Thomas are a van
When you arrive to the ferry terminal, you need to purchase your ticket over to Road Town, Tortola. If you want to save a few bucks, you can arrange this ticket ahead of time online or buy a round trip ticket. Make sure to have a few extra dollars to tip the people handling your bags.
Ferry Terminal
Once you have taken the ferry over to Tortola, you will go through customs and find another taxi to head to your marina to start your sailing vacation in the British Virgin Islands. Please ensure your passport is valid for the period of travel and for six months after you return. Some things have changed since hurricane Irma in the BVI so make sure to check out what cash you need when entering and leaving the BVI. Once you get out of the ferry terminal on Tortola, look for a Sunsail or Moorings taxi (depending on your reservation), and head to the marina!
Way 2: Fly Direct to Tortola (Airport Code: EIS)
This is usually the more expensive way to fly into Tortola, but sometimes it is the right option with flight fares and times. If you fly into Tortola you will simply need to take a taxi to the base marina. Make sure to check your airline ticket because most fees associated with entering and leaving the British Virgin Islands are already incorporated into the price of the ticket.
If you are coming in a day early, there are plenty of hotel options in St Thomas and on Tortola.