Exploring Barbuda: Travel Options And Recommendations

The best way to get to Barbuda depends on your starting point. If you're already in Antigua, you can either fly or take a ferry to Barbuda. The flight takes 15 minutes and costs US$65, but the schedules are erratic and flights are often cancelled. The ferry takes 90 minutes and costs US$85, but it's a more reliable option. If you're travelling from further afield, you'll need to fly to Antigua first, as Barbuda's airport is currently closed.

Getting to Antigua

To get to Barbuda, you first need to get to Antigua. If you don't have your own boat or jet, you'll need to fly. There are several airlines that fly to Antigua, including American/US Airways and United. You can fly direct from Chicago, with a stopover in Miami, or from various other destinations. From Miami, the flight to Antigua is around 3 and a half hours.

Getting to the Airport

If you're flying from Chicago, you'll first need to get to Chicago airport. This will involve a 2-hour drive or a flight to Chicago, if you're based elsewhere.

Choosing an Airline

American Airlines is a good option if you have an AA credit card and can take advantage of frequent flyer miles.

Booking Your Flight

You can book your flight through a travel agent or directly with the airline. Be aware that some airline websites may not allow you to book flights to Antigua online, so you may need to contact their local office via phone or email.

On Arrival in Antigua

If you're staying in a hotel, they may be able to arrange an airport transfer. Alternatively, you can get a taxi or, if your accommodation is nearby, walk.

Spending a Night in Antigua

Due to international flight timings, you may need to spend a night in Antigua before travelling on to Barbuda. This gives you an opportunity to explore Antigua, sample the local cuisine, and rest before the next leg of your journey.

Travel by helicopter

CalvinAir Helicopters offers charter flights to Barbuda from Antigua. The flight lasts 15 minutes and offers amazing views of the island, including its untouched pink coral and white sand beaches and the largest Frigate Bird Sanctuary in the Western Hemisphere.

Blue Harbour Helicopters is another option for those looking to travel to Barbuda by helicopter. They offer a range of tours and charter services, including a full island tour of Antigua that lasts 26 minutes and costs US$185.00 per person. A half-island tour is also available, lasting 15 minutes and costing US$105.00 per person.

For those seeking a unique and memorable experience, helicopter travel is a great option. Not only will you enjoy a bird's-eye view of the islands, but you will also arrive in style and comfort.

In addition to the stunning visuals, helicopter travel offers a convenient and efficient way to get to Barbuda. With experienced pilots and a range of tour options, you can create a customised itinerary that suits your needs and interests.

Whether you're looking for a quick and scenic transfer or an extended tour of the islands, helicopter travel provides an unforgettable experience that will leave you with lasting memories of Antigua and Barbuda's beauty and charm.

So, if you're considering a trip to Barbuda, consider travelling by helicopter. With its breathtaking views, efficient service, and range of tour options, it's an excellent choice for those seeking a unique and memorable travel experience.

Travel by ferry

The most popular way to get to Barbuda from Antigua is by high-speed ferry. The journey takes about 90 minutes on a pleasant day. There are currently two ferry services available: The Barbuda Express and The Island Escape.

The Barbuda Express is a powerful catamaran that offers same-day one-way and round-trip services. The ferry runs six days a week between Antigua and Barbuda and is the preferred choice for tourists due to its affordability and convenience. The round trip with a tour is recommended, as it includes the ferry journey, a taxi trip around the island, a visit to the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, the pink sand beach, and a lobster lunch. The Barbuda Express ferry leaves at 8:30 am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday, returning at 4:30 pm, and makes two journeys on Wednesdays. It costs US$85 one way and US$164 for a round trip with a tour.

The Island Escape is another option for travellers seeking a ferry service between Antigua and Barbuda. This ferry also offers a comfortable and affordable journey.

Ferry travel to Barbuda is a scenic and economical option, allowing passengers to take in the beauty of the Caribbean Sea during the 90-minute crossing. However, it is important to note that the journey can be rough depending on weather conditions, and safety is always the top priority for ferry operators.

When planning your trip to Barbuda, it is recommended to book your ferry tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, to secure your preferred travel dates and times.

Travel by small plane

There are several options for flying to Barbuda by small plane.

SVG Air operates scheduled and chartered flights throughout the Caribbean. They offer one-way and round-trip flights with professional and experienced pilots flying their fleet of light twins and business jets.

Fly Montserrat offers two daily flights from Antigua to Barbuda, as well as private charters to the island. Their aircraft has nine seats and twin engines, designed for ease of operation.

You can also book a charter flight with Tradewind Aviation, which offers private flights to Barbuda Codrington Airport. Their Pilatus PC-12 aircraft are well-suited for landing on the relatively short runway in Barbuda, with convenient connections from Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and other points in the Caribbean.

Additionally, there are two daily flights on a small 7-seater plane operated by SVG Airlines from Antigua to Barbuda. One flight arrives in the early morning, around 7 am, and the other in the late afternoon, around 4 pm. These flights cost around $65, but the schedules change frequently, and flights are often cancelled, so be prepared for erratic service.

Finally, you can opt for a helicopter ride with CalvinAir Helicopters, which offers charter flights to Barbuda. The flight lasts for about 15 minutes.

Getting around Barbuda

The majority of Barbuda's 2,000 inhabitants live in the village of Codrington, the island's only settlement. The best way to get around the island is by taxi or rental car.

Taxis are a great way to find out about the island, as you get a friendly local guide as well as transport. Taxi drivers are qualified as tour guides and will happily double up as one, although this can be expensive. Taxi drivers will also be able to tell you about the island's history. Fares are set by the Barbuda Council and are standardised. US dollars are more readily accepted by taxi drivers. You will need to call a taxi in advance if you want one to meet you at the airport, as there are no taxi ranks on Barbuda.

There are a few cars available for rental on the island for those wishing to explore Barbuda independently. Barbuda Rentals is Barbuda's primary car rental agency, offering an exclusive lineup of 4x4 compact SUVs. You will need a valid driver's licence and a permit to drive in Antigua, which can be obtained from most car rental agencies for an additional fee.

For those who prefer two wheels, bikes can be hired from car rental companies or hotels. Motorcycles are also available to hire at Jolly Harbour.

Frequently asked questions