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How to Get to St Barthelemy

Air Travel

Connecting Flights to SBH

Airlines with directions to SBH include Winair and St. Barth Commuter. The most common connection point is St. Maarten's Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM).

Regional Air Links

  • Flights from SXM to SBH take about 10-15 minutes.
  • Tradewind Aviation has scheduled and private charter flights from San Juan, The Island of enchantment (SJU).
  • Less frequent routes are found from Antigua (ANU), St. Thomas (STT), and Guadeloupe (PTP).

International Gateways

No direct long-haul international flights land at SBH on account of its runway limitations. All foreign visitors connect via a regional hub, mainly SXM or SJU.

Main Hubs

  • Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten is the main gateway, taking numerous international flights.
  • Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan, Puerto Rico, has direct flights from major US cities.
  • V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) in Antigua also is a regional hub with international connections.

High Season Dec-May

Flights are more frequent and significantly more expensive. Book well in advance.

Low Season Jul-Oct

Flight frequency is lower, some routes may suspend operations. Prices are generally lower.

Hurricane Season

Occurs during the monsoon. Monitor weather forecasts closely. Travel insurance is a good idea.

Transfers to St. Barts

From SBH Airport

  • Taxis are readily available just outside the terminal.
  • A lot of accommodations and villas have complimentary transfers.
  • Vehicle rental firms are on-site, meaning you can pick up your car immediately.
  • The airport is centrally located, making transfers straightforward.

From SXM St. Maarten

Airport Facilities

Small Terminal

Gustaf III Airport (SBH) has a small terminal with few facilities.

Quick Processing

Arrivals and departures are quick due to small aircraft size and efficient operations.

Pre-Security Amenities

A few shops and a restaurant are found pre-security for refreshments or souvenirs.

Land Transportation

Self-Driving

Self-driving is a common and recommended method for exploring St. Barts. Valid national driver's licenses from most countries are accepted for short visits.

License & Requirements

  • An International Driving Permit is advised if your license is not in English or French.
  • Rental companies need drivers to be at least 21 or 25, depending on the company.
  • Drivers typically need to own held their license for at least 1-2 years.

Road Conditions & Driving

Road conditions are generally well-maintained, but the roads are narrow, steep, and winding, especially in hilly areas.

Navigating the Island

  • Speed limits are low (30-50 km/h) and strictly enforced.
  • Blind corners and sharp turns are common, requiring slow driving and careful navigation.
  • Parking can be challenging, notably in Gustavia and St. Jean; adhere to signs.

Vehicle Recommendations

Drivers from the region are accustomed to the challenging roads, so defensive driving is a good idea for visitors.

Best Car Types

  • Choosing a small, compact car, like a Suzuki Jimny, Mini Moke, or Smart car, is a good choice.
  • These smaller vehicles move on the meandering roads more easily and fit into tighter parking spaces.
  • Automatic transmission is common for rental cars, simplifying driving.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Motorcycle and scooter rentals are also found from a few agencies. Helmets are needed by law for a liftrs.

Considerations for Riders

  • The island's roads can show challenges for inexperienced riders due to narrowness and sharp inclines.
  • Exercise caution if choosing this option.
  • Booking your rental car well in advance, especially during high season, is strongly recommended.

Important Driving Notes

  • Driving laws mean driving on the right-hand side of the road.
  • Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants.
  • Speed limits are generally low (30-50 km/h) and enforcement can be strict.
  • Road conditions are paved but frequently narrow, steep, and winding, with blind curves.
  • Parking can be a challenge, especially in Gustavia and St. Jean; designated areas are found but get reserved quickly.
  • Adhere to parking signs to avoid penalties.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services

Arrivals by boat are an alternative way to reach St. Barthélemy, especially from nearby St. Maarten. Regular ferry services run between Gustavia Port on St. Barts and both Marigot and Philipsburg ports on St. Maarten.

Operators & Travel Time

  • Operators include Voyager and Great Bay Express.
  • Journey time is from 45 a short time to 1.5 hours, depending on the operator and port.
  • Conditions at sea can be rough; consider motion sickness solutions if prone to seasickness.

Cruise Ship & Yacht Access

Gustavia Harbor is a port for smaller luxury cruise ships and private yachts. Larger cruise ships often anchor offshore.

Harbor Operations

  • Passengers take tender boats to come ashore.
  • This signifies cruise ship passengers may experience the island for a day.
  • The harbor has a lively scene, with numerous yachts and fishing boats alongside the ferries.

Port Procedures

Passengers must clear immigration upon arrival at Gustavia Port. Present your valid passport.

Land Connections

Taxis are available just outside the port. Car rental agencies are nearby for pre-booked vehicles.

Departure Info

No specific exit fees. Arrive 1 hour before regional flights (SBH) or 30-45 mins for ferries.

Departure Information

Airport Departure

For air travel from Gustaf III Airport (SBH), plan to arrive at least 1 hour before your scheduled departure time for regional flights.

SBH Specifics

  • The airport is small and works efficiently, so extended check-in times are not usually necessary.
  • Allowing this buffer means you have enough time for check-in and security.
  • Pre-security, there are a few shops and a restaurant for refreshments or souvenirs.

Ferry Departure

For ferry departures from Gustavia Port, get THERE 30-45 minutes before the scheduled departure time.

Port Specifics

  • This gives sufficient time to complete check-in and immigration procedures.
  • The process is efficient, especially if multiple boats can be departing or if you have luggage.
  • Gustavia Port has basic facilities for departing travelers, usually a small waiting area and ticket windows.

General Departure Notes

No Exit Fees

No specific exit fees or taxes are typically collected upon departure for tourists.

Included Costs

These costs are usually part of airline or ferry ticket prices.

Pre-Check

Be sure you have everything you need before passing through security or boarding your ferry.

Final Tip

Planning your onward travel from regional hubs (SXM, SJU) is advisable before arriving in St. Barts.