Getting to the Virgin Islands

There are only two ways to get to the Virgin Islands; by air or by sea. Air travel is the most popular choice because it is really the only option for someone who wants to move here. There are no ferries or barges for people between the US mainland and the Virgin Islands . There are barges for cargo.

Air Travel from the U.S. Mainland to the Virgin Islands

There are two major airports in the Virgin Islands ; the Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas and the Henry E. Rohlsen Airport on St. Croix, St. John and Water Island do not have airports and are connected to St. Thomas via ferries. Ferry service is reliable.

Non-stop service from the US mainland to St. Thomas and St. Croix is available, however most flights will make connections; primarily through San Juan. ( San Juan , Puerto Rico is the principle gateway for the Caribbean .) Flights with inter-island carriers may be necessary from San Juan to St. Thomas and St. Croix .

Airlines with service to the U.S. Virgin Islands from the mainland include American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Airlines, United Airlines and U.S. Airways.

Moving to the Virgin Islands

Unless you plan to move with only what fits in your suitcase you will find moving your personal and household items here to be one of your biggest projects. Below you will find some ideas to get you started on how to move your things to the islands with you!

Shipping Large Items to the Virgin Islands

The least expensive way to ship a large quantity of items, perhaps your entire household and car(s), is by ship using a moving company. Items must be packed in crates and delivered by you or a moving company. Most large moving companies have agents in the U.S. Virgin Islands, call your local movers to find out if they have contacts in the Virgin Islands that would facilitate your move. You must then hire a trucker or moving/storage company locally to pick up your crates and deliver them to your home or store them until you arrive. St. John residents should take note that the trucker must additionally take your crates over on a barge and to St. John . It is a good idea to call around and get estimates.

Temporary Virgin Islands’ Resident

If the islands are not a permanent home for you, don’t bring too many expensive and valuable items. Antique furniture can be turned to dust by termites; delicate furnishings can be covered in mildew if you are living in wetter areas or close to the sea. Hurricanes also can destroy items. So carefully consider what things you need and want to move with you, what things you could sell in a yard sale and others that you’d rather let a close family member hold on to it for you until you are certain you’ll be staying in the islands for a long time.

Shipping Small Items to the Virgin Islands

If your items are small in nature and can be packed in boxes consider the US postal system your friend! Pack your items in boxes, no more then 70 pounds each, as this is the standard maximum accepted as far as weight goes. Delivery can take several weeks. Take a trip down to your local post office to inquire about weights, box sizes, and cost of postage.

Other Suggestions for Shipping into the U.S. Virgin Islands

Another option is to contact airlines that service the U.S. Virgin Islands and see if airfreight is a option. Large items and fragile items should be packed professionally and shipped professionally. Smaller items can be packed personally and shipped by postal service or brought down with you in luggage.