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Transport links to the Caribbean island of Montserrat are being boosted with the re-introduction of fast-ferries from neighbouring Antigua, together with additional flights. The extra services are set to further open up the island to day visitors from Antigua, as well as those planning a longer trip, including divers who find it easier to travel with their own gear on the ferry.
Montserrat has been without a regular ferry service for almost three and a half years but, thanks to financial support from the UK’s Department for International Development, a six days a week service will resume on Thursday, December 11.
The 107-passenger Diamond 1 will operate the service, weekdays and Saturday, until December 31, with the journey taking around 1hr 20 minutes. From January 1, the larger and faster Provincetown III takes over the route. This carries 149 passengers and will complete the 27-mile crossing in an hour.
From December 11, ferries will operate from Montserrat at 07.30 and return from Antigua at 17.30. Additional sailings may be added to the schedule when demand dictates. Return trips will cost EC$350 (about £92), while one-way fares are EC$200 (£53).
Passengers do not need to make advance reservations and can buy a ticket at the departure port. In addition, special-rate day return trips will be available through local travel companies.
Meanwhile, Caribbean airline WINAIR has introduced a four-times-a-day schedule from Antigua with its 19-seater Twin Otter aircraft. In addition, it will also operate a seven-seater Islander to carry any excess baggage – enabling the larger aircraft to operate with a full passenger load – and additional passengers when required. Previously WINAIR flew three times a day with the Twin Otter, with additional schedule services with the Islander.
Popularly-known as the “Emerald Isle of the Caribbean”, Montserrat has many unique features appealing to day trippers and longer-stay visitors. It gained its nickname not only from its lush vegetation but also because of its unique Irish connections, dating back to settlers centuries ago. Montserrat is the only country outside Ireland where St Patrick’s Day is a public holiday.
The island’s central feature is the Soufriere Hills Volcano, active since 1995 when lava flows covered a large are of the island. Still active, the volcano’s smoking summit can be viewed from various vantage points. The Montserrat Volcano Observatory offers a more scientific insight into Soufriere Hills activity.
Major development is planned to restore Montserrat’s economy, including boosting its tourism, which remains a key element. A 10-year, four-phase project known as the Little Bay Development Project (LBDP) has already been set up with the help of the newly-established Montserrat Development Corporation (MDC). The LBDP will establish an economic, social, cultural, residential and business and administrative centre to the island in Little Bay, which will eventually replace the now abandoned Plymouth as the island’s capital.
With its unique features, Montserrat attracts many special interest visitors, including hikers, birdwatchers, divers and snorkellers. It is also an ideal destinations for those wanting a peaceful break, with a wide choice of high quality and inexpensive private villas, as well as comfortable guesthouse and hotel accommodation.
Theodore is the Co-Founder and Managing Editor of TravelDailyNews Media Network; his responsibilities include business development and planning for TravelDailyNews long-term opportunities.
