MISC BVI AND USVI: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS!

A: Absolutely! Our private water taxi services can get you to and from St. Thomas and Scrub Island! Email us today for a quote! https://www.chilloutchartersbvi.com/water-taxi-booking-form

A: Scrub Island is a favored destination for its stunning natural beauty, luxurious spas, and fine dining. It also offers a variety of water activities, including diving, paddleboarding, and snorkeling. Plus, its exclusivity is enhanced by the absence of cruise ship dockings, making it a less crowded choice.

A: It is considered one of the pricier islands thanks to its upscale hotels and restaurants, but there are also good deals to be had for lunch.

A: The Currency in the BVI across all islands including Scrub Island is the US Dollar.

A: There are plenty of beaches on Scrub Island that you can explore, along with a resort pool, swim up bar, restaurant & spa! The warm Caribbean waters are perfect for snorkel or scuba diving excursions, or kyacking and SUP adventures! Marina Cay is also a short ferry ride away!

A: Yes, all travelers, whether from the U.S., U.K., Canada, EU, or elsewhere, must present a passport to enter the British Virgin Islands. Unlike the U.S. Virgin Islands, where U.S. citizens can use other forms of U.S. ID, a passport is required for Scrub Island and all BVI islands. This is because the U.S. Virgin Islands are part of the U.S. mainland.

A: Pricing varies by location but for transfers from the airport to Red Hook, the cost typically ranges from $90.00 to $135.00 for 1-6 passengers. For longer journeys, we can provide custom quotes. To ensure a reliable and safe transfer, we partner with a trusted land taxi service in St. Thomas.

A: Most of the cruise lines dock into Road Town, Tortola which means you will need a taxi, car or bus to get to our local beaches! While they are only a few miles away, the journey involves navigating steep roads and mountainous terrain.

A: On average it takes 20 minutes for a water taxi ride between St. Thomas and St. John

A: We provide daily water taxi transfers between the islands, so contact us today for a quote.

A: The currency in the BVI is the US Dollar.

A: The Winter and Spring months are popular times to visit, but during the Fall (August/September) it can be quite hot and humid, with a higher risk of storms.

If you're looking to escape the freezing cold, the winter months from December to March are an excellent choice, as our tropical BVI paradise enjoys warm temperatures in the high 80s during this time!

A: Most places will accept Mastercard and Visa, but not Amex.
ATMs do exist but the rates vary but it is always useful to have some cash with you, for example if you wish to take a taxi or leave a tip!

A: Most taxi drivers only accept cash and may charge extra fees for luggage. While a few cabs now accept credit cards, it's best to confirm this in advance.

A: There is no Uber or Lyft or any other rideshare app service in the BVI or USVI islands. However, we do have a vessel called Uber Chill in our fleet which can transfer you for a day charter, or water taxi service! Be sure to check it out here:
https://www.chilloutchartersbvi.com/39ft-yellowfin

A: Like most destinations, there are options to suit a variety of budgets. You'll find high-end hotels and restaurants, as well as excellent local eateries and accommodations that cater to more affordable preferences. Similarly, Chillout Charters offers a range of vessels and charter options to accommodate every budget and experience.

A: You sure can, thanks to our water taxi services and island-hopping day charter packages! We can take you to a variety of BVI islands to explore. Be sure to check out our packages to explore your options and see where you can go!

https://www.chilloutchartersbvi.com/types-of-charters

A: Our shallow, crystal-clear waters are perfect for everyone to enjoy. Even if you're not a confident swimmer, you can still have a great time paddling in these serene waters!

A: Unfortunately, not within walking distance of the cruise port. The closest beach to Tortola is "Cane Garden Bay" which is a few miles away so may require a taxi or car rental.

A: In many cases no, but for the famous beach of Trunk Bay there is a $5 day pass which can be purchased online at recreation.gov

Yes, as while a US citizen doesn’t need a passport for the USVI, all countries need a passport for the BVI locations such as Tortola.

A: Yes, tipping is customary for restaurants, water taxis, charters, porters, yacht crew, spa therapists, and many more! Like in the USA, a 15-20% tip is ideal.

A: Car rental, Scooter rental, Buses, Taxis and Ferries all exist, so it depends on your needs, but there are plenty of options. Alternatively, if you are looking to explore other islands, check out our water taxi or day charter services! https://www.chilloutchartersbvi.com/types-of-charters

A: Taxis are available in the main areas, while scooters and bikes can be rented in some places.  Ferries are popular while by bus there is the Vitran Bus System on St. Thomas.

A: Public transit is limited in Tortola to buses, but there are also large trucks known as open air safaris which can be a good way of getting to the popular locations.

A: Covering 491.5 acres with gentle terrain, Water Island is easily explored on foot. However, for a bit more fun, consider renting a golf cart. It’s a popular choice, so reserving in advance is recommended!

A: On average it is about 45 minutes to get from St. Thomas to Tortola. Some take longer, some faster, so it’s best to check with all schedules first.tion

A: A US Citizen will not require a visa, but the cost of living is higher than in the USA with some stats citing an almost 50% uplift partially due to the cost of everyday items like groceries.

A: Averaging around 2 hours, the boat ride varies from $70 each way to $120 round-trip.

A: For adults a ferry from St. Thomas to St. John starts at $8.15 as of 2024, this is lower for USVI residents, and $1 for kids 11 and under, free for those under 1 year old.

A: While like most places, petty crime can exist, Tortola is generally safe, and one should just be alert and watch one's own belongings.

A: No, Aruba is not part of the Virgin Islands. It’s a separate Caribbean island, part of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao).

A: It depends on your preferences, but we there are a range of dining options. In the USVI and BVI, you can enjoy high-end meals and fine wines costing over $100.00, or you can find great local spots where you can have a satisfying meal for under $20.00

A: Yes, it is illegal to take sand from beaches, and doing so can also harm the environment.

A: Yes but do take normal safety precautions and try to stay alert. That said, the biggest risk is perhaps the sun, so make sure to bring sunscreen!

A: Most places use cistern water, which is collected from the rainfall. Therefore, in most places it should be safe to drink but wouldn't advised as there are no filters. It is certainly safe to shower/bathe in, wash your fruits & vegetables, brush your teeth etc, but if you are in doubt, bottled water is available in many places.

A: It sure does, including various shopping, sightseeing and historical tours of the area. Our reliable drivers in St. Thomas also offer private tours in comfortable, cool, air conditioned vehicles.

A: We may be biased because we are based here, but yes we think so because of its picturesque beaches and hills, easy going vibe and general safety overall. It's a great place to base yourself during your stay, as its central. You can then island hop to other islands and explore with us!

A: If you are a US citizen, bring a passport that’s valid and proof of proposed departure, such as return ticket.

A: It all depends on what you want, but top choices include St. John, St. Thomas and St. Croix.

A: The Spring and fall months are popular but fall months can be hot and humid with the occasional storm risk.  However, Winter may be the most popular where temperatures stay in the 70s and 80s Fahrenheit and provide a summer getaway from the colder climates.

A: Typically, September, though it falls within the peak tropical storm season, so there is a slight weather risk.
The peak travel season, however, is from mid October to mid July

A: You name it, beaches, hikes, coral reefs, views, waters, landscapes and chillout vibes, just ask us and we'll tell you more! Be sure to ask about our island hopping adventures so we can show you more of the BVI, not just Tortola!

A: As you may have guessed by our location, seafood is a seafood is a staple here! Conch, lobster, mahi-mahi, and saltfish are popular choices, along with local favorites like rotis, johnnycakes, and jerk chicken.

The national dish of the BVI is "fish and fungi," a delicious combination of braised fish served with a mix of okra, cornmeal, and spices.

A: English is widely spoken in both the BVI and USVI, making communication easy for visitors from the USA and UK. Additionally, you might hear Virgin Islands Creole, an English-based creole spoken locally.

A: Out of the three main islands belonging to the US Virgin Islands, St. John is known to be the safest.

But in general, overall, both the BVI the USVI are considered to be very safe and have very low crime rates.

A: The British Virgin Islands truly shine with their stunning white sand beaches. White Bay on Jost Van Dyke is a favorite, renowned for the Soggy Dollar Bar and Hendo’s Beach Bar. Meanwhile, Peter Island boasts the renowned "Deadman's Beach," celebrated as one of the world’s top 10 beaches with its crystal-clear waters!

A: Located slightly west of Virgin Gorda, Cockroach Island, also known as “The Dogs” or “The Dog Islands” is a small unhabitated island that is shaped like a Cockroach!