Pre-Trip Checklist: Vieques

Planning & Booking Milestones

Strategic preparations help manage bookings and research effectively.

Journey Timeline

A chronological guide for your Vieques planning process.

+ Months Ahead

Passport & Flights

Confirm passport validity for 6+ months. Secure main flights to SJU and connecting flights to VQS or Ceiba ferry.

Accommodation

Book your hotel, guesthouse, or vacation rental early. Options are limited, especially in high season.

Rental Vehicle

Reserve a rental car (Jeep advised) immediately. Supply on Vieques is limited and demand is constant.

Month Ahead

Tour Bookings

Reserve desired tours, like the Bioluminescent Bay tour (for new moon dates) and snorkeling trips.

Travel Documents

Verify U.S. Visa or ESTA approval for international travelers. Carry print copies.

Gear Acquisition

Acquire necessary travel gear, such as Reef-safe sunscreen, Insect repellent, or packing organizers from Eagle Creek.

Week Ahead

Confirmations

Reconfirm all flight times, ferry schedules, accommodation details, and tour reservations.

Digital Prep

Download offline maps for Vieques and the Spanish language pack for Google Translate.

Home Safeguards

Arrange pet care, mail collection, and home security measures before your departure.

Bookings

Booking these early prevents disappointment and simplifies arrival.

Advance Reservations

Flights to/from Vieques (VQS).
Ferry tickets (online via Prferry.pr.gov).
Accommodation (hotel, guesthouse, vacation rental).
Rental car (Jeep suggested, in high demand).

Pre-Trip Research

Knowledge of local conditions readies you for an experience.

Research Aspects

Read recent reviews of accommodations.
Familiarize yourself with local driving conditions.
Check the moon phases for optimal Bio Bay viewing.
Review current weather forecasts and hurricane advisories.

Home Management

These steps create tranquility during your travels.

Security

Secure your home: lock doors and windows.
Set alarms for peace of mind.
Arrange for mail collection by a trusted person.
Ensure all regular bills are paid or set up for auto-payment.

Utilities

Unplug unnecessary electronics.
Protect against power surges.
Empty trash cans before you leave.
Clean out the refrigerator to avoid odors.

Departure Cleanliness

Leave your accommodation tidy.
Ensure all personal belongings are collected.
Do a final check of drawers, closets, and bathrooms.
Dispose of all trash responsibly.

Important Reminder

Purchase comprehensive Travel insurance. A policy covers medical emergencies, evacuation, and trip disruptions. This is wise when traveling during hurricane season (June-November).

Arrival Logistics

These steps facilitate a calm start upon your Vieques arrival.

Initial Actions

1
Collect luggage from the carousel if flying.
2
Locate pre-booked transportation.
Find your rental car pickup desk or the designated taxi/público stand.
3
Confirm phone service and consider a local SIM.

Orientation & Needs

Familiarize yourself with the neighborhood upon arrival.
Locate nearby restaurants, supermarkets, and essential services.
Withdraw local currency (USD) from an ATM.
Consider a quick stop for bottled water and snacks.

Getting to Your Destination

Airport Pickup VQS

Taxis or públicos meet flights at Antonio Rivera Rodríguez Airport (VQS).

They transport you directly to your accommodation anywhere on the island.

Ferry Arrival Isabel Segunda

Upon ferry arrival at Isabel Segunda, taxis or públicos are readily available.

These will carry you to your lodging in Isabel Segunda, Esperanza, or other areas.

Driver Availability

Drivers typically wait for arriving passengers at both the airport and ferry terminal.

For larger groups, considering pre-arranging a private driver simplifies logistics.

Practical Advice

Taxis or públicos transport you to your accommodation in Isabel Segunda, Esperanza, or other areas of the island. Drivers typically await arriving passengers.

Departure Procedures

Preparing for departure simplifies your return journey.

Souvenirs & Shipping

Purchase souvenirs in advance to avoid a last-minute rush.
Inquire about local postal services or courier options.
The U.S. Post Office in Isabel Segunda handles domestic shipping.
VAT refund procedures are not applicable for Puerto Rico.

Departure Timing

Arrive at Isabel Segunda ferry terminal 60-90 minutes before.
Arrive at VQS airport 60-90 minutes before your departure.
Return your rental car to the agency with ample time.
Confirm their return procedures and location.

Final Checks

Ensure a smooth exit from your accommodation.

Before You Leave

Collect all personal belongings.
Do a final check of drawers and closets.
Dispose of all trash responsibly.
Leave your accommodation tidy.

Onward Journey

Reconfirm your onward flights.
Verify ferry connections from Ceiba/San Juan.
Pack strategically, leaving space for souvenirs.
Ensure home preparations are completed.

Return Trip Considerations

Reconfirm your onward flights or ferry connections from Ceiba/San Juan to your next destination.

Pack strategically, leaving adequate space for any souvenirs you acquired. Ensure all personal belongings are collected from your accommodation.

Pre-Trip Checklist