The British Virgin Islands (BVI) are an incredible destination, but getting there can sometimes come with a hefty price tag—especially if you’re flying directly into the territory. However, for savvy travelers, there’s a more affordable option that offers not only cost savings but also a chance to experience the U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) along the way.
Let’s compare two options: flying straight to the BVI or taking a flight to St. Thomas in the USVI, followed by a quick ferry ride to Tortola. We used Chicago as the departure point for this analysis since it’s a major hub with good connectivity.
Direct Flights to BVI vs. Other Caribbean Destinations
To give you some context, here’s what flying directly to the BVI costs compared to some other popular Caribbean destinations for travel between our random sample week:
- BVI: $1,549 round trip
- Cayman Islands: $450 round trip
- Belize: $797 round trip
- Nassau, Bahamas: $598 round trip
- Turks & Caicos: $727 round trip
Clearly, flying to the BVI stands out as one of the pricier options. So, what can you do to save some money?
The Cost-Saving Alternative: Fly to St. Thomas and Ferry to Tortola
Instead of flying straight to the BVI, consider flying into St. Thomas in the USVI (United States Virgin Islands). From there, you can easily take a 45 minute ferry over to Tortola, the main island of the BVI. Here’s a cost breakdown for this alternative route:
- Flight to St. Thomas: $753 round trip
- 45 Minute Ferry to Tortola: $103 per person round trip
- (Optional) One-night stay at Windward Passage Hotel (USVI): $250 (this hotel is conveniently located right across from the ferry terminal)
So, if you’re flying to St. Thomas instead of the BVI, your total cost for the round trip would be $856. Even if you included a one-night stay in St. Thomas, would come to about $1,100 per person. This still offers savings compared to the $1,549 direct flight to the BVI.
No Luggage Restrictions Through USVI
Another key benefit of flying into St. Thomas is the lack of luggage restrictions. If you fly directly to the BVI through Puerto Rico, you’ll likely connect on a smaller commuter plane to Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS). These smaller planes often have strict weight and size limits for both checked and carry-on luggage, which can be inconvenient and costly.
Flying to St. Thomas via Cyril E. King Airport (STT), however, means flying on standard-sized planes with no such restrictions. You can pack what you need without worrying about weight limits beyond standard airline policies. Once in St. Thomas, the ferry to Tortola allows for generous luggage allowances, making this route especially appealing for travelers bringing gear for activities like diving, sailing, or extended stays.
Book Early for the Best Experience
It’s important to book your flights early, whether you’re flying directly to the BVI or taking the alternative route through St. Thomas. The two main airports serving this region—Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) in the BVI and Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas—have limited flight availability, especially during peak travel seasons. Booking early ensures you get the best prices and the most convenient itineraries.
Ferry Schedule
There are many different Ferry Operators that have a rotating schedule but they will stick to this agreed upon daily schedule. Here’s the ferry schedule between (Charlotte Amalie) St. Thomas and Road Town, Tortola to make your planning easier:
The ferry ride is quick and scenic, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful waters of the Caribbean en route to your final destination.
See more Ferry Schedule information at the BVI Tourism website.
Why This Option Makes Sense
Not only does flying to St. Thomas and taking the ferry to Tortola save you money, but it also gives you an opportunity to explore a bit of the USVI. You can enjoy the local culture, have a great night’s rest, and then make your way over to the BVI fresh and ready for your adventure. Plus, the ferry ride is a relaxing way to begin your trip in paradise.
Let Aggressor Detours Plan Your Trip
Planning a trip can feel overwhelming, but that’s where Aggressor Detours, our in-house travel agency, comes in. Our team specializes in creating seamless itineraries to get you to your Aggressor Adventures destination stress-free. We can help you book your flights, reserve accommodations, and more —all tailored to your schedule and preferences. Let Aggressor Detours handle the logistics so you can focus on the excitement of your upcoming adventure in the British Virgin Islands.
For travelers who are looking to experience the beauty of the BVI while keeping their budget in check, this alternative route is a fantastic option.
