Getting to Tortola and the British Virgin Islands

Terrence B. Lettsome International Airport aka Beef Island Airport (airport code EIS) is located on Beef Island, a separate island connected to Tortola's East end by a one lane bridge.  This is the main airport that services all of the British Virgin Islands.  If you're going to Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke or any other BVI destination, you'll probably go through Tortola.

Unfortunately, there are no direct flights from the States to Tortola.  American Eagle is the most prominent airline that services Tortola/Beef Island.  There are daily flights from both San Juan, Puerto Rico and St. Thomas on American Eagle.

US Airways also serves Tortola, flying through St. Martin (Sint. Maarten).

 

Ferry to Tortola:

The Tortola Fast Ferry (http://tortolafastferry.com) runs from St. Thomas to Road Town (and back) and takes only 50 minutes.  

Smith's Ferry runs between St. Thomas and Tortola and St. John and Tortola.  (340) 775-7292.  Takes about 90 minutes.

Native Son Ferry (http://www.wix.com/archiecoenterprise/nativeson) runs another "fast ferry" between Tortola and St. Thomas.  Takes about an hour.
 

Taxis around Tortola: 

Taxis meet every arriving flight. Government regulations prohibit anyone from renting a car at the airport -- visitors must take a taxi to their hotels.  

The fare from the Beef Island airport to Road Town is $15 for one to three passengers. Quick's Taxi Service (284/494-1594 or 284/496-7127).

 

Rental Cars 

Typically your hotel can help you rent a car or rental car companies will deliver your car to your hotel. Make sure to book your car in advance. All agencies require a valid driver's license and a temporary BVI driver's license, which they will sell you for $10. Remember to drive on the left. Roads are narrow and poorly lit, driving can be difficult.

 



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