Editing How to Arrive in Tortola

= How to Arrive in Tortola =

Here is a comprehensive explanation for how to arrive in Tortola, British Virgin Islands:

== Air Travel ==

The main airport serving Tortola is Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS), located on Beef Island and connected to Tortola by a small bridge1<ref name="ref9">9</ref>. There are no direct flights from the US, Canada, Europe or South America to Tortola[6]. Most travelers will need to connect through another Caribbean island.

=== Common Connection Points: ===

- San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU) - Popular for US travelers9<ref name="ref10">10</ref>
- St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands (STT)1<ref name="ref10">10</ref> 
- Antigua (ANU) - Popular for UK travelers[9]
- St. Maarten (SXM)1<ref name="ref9">9</ref>
- Barbados (BGI)[9]

=== Airlines serving Tortola (EIS): ===

- American Airlines (from Miami starting June 2023)[1]
- Cape Air (from San Juan and St. Thomas)1<ref name="ref6">6</ref>
- LIAT (from Antigua)6<ref name="ref9">9</ref>
- Seaborne Airlines (from San Juan)6<ref name="ref10">10</ref>
- InterCaribbean Airways[10]

== Ferry from St. Thomas  ==

A very common and often more affordable option is to fly into St. Thomas (STT) in the US Virgin Islands, then take a ferry to Tortola1<ref name="ref3">3</ref>[6].

=== Ferry Process: ===

1. Fly into St. Thomas (STT)
2. Take a taxi from the airport to the ferry terminal (10-15 minutes)[6]
3. Take a ferry to either Road Town or West End, Tortola1<ref name="ref3">3</ref>
4. Ferry ride is about 45-60 minutes3<ref name="ref6">6</ref>

=== Ferry Terminals in St. Thomas: ===

- Charlotte Amalie (downtown, closer to airport)
- Red Hook (east end of island)1<ref name="ref3">3</ref>

=== Ferry Companies: ===

- Native Son
- Road Town Fast Ferry
- Smith Ferry/Tortola Fast Ferry[3]

Important: The last ferry usually departs around 4:30-5:00 PM. Plan flights to arrive with enough time to make the last ferry1<ref name="ref3">3</ref>.

== Customs and Immigration ==

- All visitors need a valid passport[12]
- Complete the online BVI Immigration and Customs form 72 hours before arrival[19]
- Pay a $10 Environmental and Tourism levy upon arrival[3]
- $20 departure tax when leaving the BVI[3]

== Ground Transportation on Tortola ==

- Taxis are readily available at the airport and ferry terminals11<ref name="ref17">17</ref>
- Car rentals are available, but remember they drive on the left side[16]
- Some resorts offer shuttle services[2]

== Private Options ==

- Charter flights are available from nearby islands1<ref name="ref6">6</ref>
- Water taxis offer more flexible service between islands[16]

By understanding these options and planning accordingly, you can choose the best method to arrive in Tortola for your specific needs and budget. Remember to check the most up-to-date entry requirements and schedules before traveling.

== References ==
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