Arrival & Customs
There are two bases in Antigua, one in English Harbour and one in Jolly Harbour; both served by only one airport: VC Bird International Airport. You have a choice of airlines servicing Antigua from the US via San Juan Puerto Rico, including American Airline, United Airline and US Air.
To clear Antigua customs, everyone should have either a passport or certified copy of their birth certificate, plus a photo I.D. (Also upon your departure, you will need $20 cash for each person, over age 12, returning to the states, paid at the airport for Antigua departure taxes, so don't spend all your cash!)
PLEASE NOTE: It is illegal in Antigua to wear camouflage or combat gear, even on children. We do not recommend you bring any with you as it will be confiscated.
After you clear customs, the taxi drivers will be waiting just outside the customs exit. Remember to tell them if you’re going to English Harbour or Jolly Harbour. To English Harbour, it is approximately US$31 per taxi for up to four people (one way) plus US$8 for each extra person plus excess bags (Taxi drivers should be paid direct). To Jolly Harbor, it’s approximately US$24 (US$30 before 7 a.m.) for up to 4 persons and 4 bags.
Provisions & Beverages
A small provisioning store is 10 minutes’ walk from the base as well as larger supermarkets in St Johns, 30 minutes taxi ride from the base. Most shops open from 0800 hrs – 1700 hrs (weekdays) and a few are open on Saturdays or Sundays.
Clothing & Luggage
As space is limited on boats (and airplanes!) please pack light and use easily storable duffel bags. Casual wear is appropriate everywhere in the Antigua. Be sure to bring a jacket/sweater/sweatshirt or rain slicker, for the occasional cool evening or windy weather. Good boat shoes with non-slip soles are a must.
Climate
Antigua has a year round average in the mid 20’s Celsius (mid 70’s Fahrenheit), with the annual average minimum to maximum temperature ranging between 21 degrees to 30 degrees Celsius. Unlike many islands in the tropics, Antigua experiences relatively low humidity which makes the tropical weather more comfortable. This island is drier than most Caribbean islands and has an average of only 45 inches of rainfall per year. Humidity is at its lowest from November to February, makes these months the most enjoyable for travel.
Money
Antigua runs a dual currency system: The Eastern Caribbean Dollar (EC$) is the local currency and primarily used throughout Antigua. The US Dollar (US$) and US Dollar Travellers Cheques are widely accepted throughout the island, although change will normally be given in EC$. Shops usually price smaller items in EC$ and expensive goods (value over £50) in US$. There is one bank in Nelson’s Dockyard; cash-point machines are available in St Johns. Banks in St. Johns are open on weekday mornings: 0800 hrs – 1400 hrs. Cash-point machines are available 24 hours a day. Credit cards can be used for payment in larger establishments and in most restaurants (a surcharge may be applied).
Marina Facilities
The Marinas facilities include restaurants, bars, internet café, museum and much more. Clean shore side restrooms with showers, laundry facilities, and small grocery and liquor stores are also on site. Hotel rooms and banquet facilities are also available. Please ask us for more details on accommodations and or reservations.
Boarding / Departure
Your yacht will be ready at 1800 hrs for boarding. Please be aware that the yacht and chart briefings will be arranged on your arrival. At the end of your charter your yacht will need to be vacated by 0900 hrs so we recommend that you return to the base the day before.
Fuel & Water
Upon boarding your charter boat will have a full tank of diesel fuel and water. We recommend that you purchase drinking water and use the water onboard for bathing. You can generally purchase more water at marinas, but they do charge you by the gallon, so use water sparingly. Please return your charter boat full of fuel and water.
