TravelTalkOnline

A Few More Newby Questions...

Posted By: JustBS

A Few More Newby Questions... - 02/04/2017 04:05 PM

Been checking in here at TTOL everyday for the last six months. Wheels up in three days for my first trip to the BVI's. I tried the search function but I couldn't find a few things (probably operator error).

I'm traveling solo and will meet my crew at the dock. Flying into STT and will ferry over. I've seen some taxi driver names, should I look them up and contact them for the ride from the airport or just grab a cab? Does it make a difference? What's the cost?

I've read that when I go through customs to have my paperwork filled out prior and ready to go. Can someone provide a link to the forms? I've googled a few different times and cannot find them.

Is it too late to get a fishing license? If I can, is it worth it? I'll be on a two week charter, none of the other crew is interested. Cost is about $200 for license and rental gear. That will buy a lot of fresh fish from the locals. Thoughts?

Thanks for everything from the contributors here. So much useful information! We will be at the Full Moon Party next Friday, if I meet any of you there (or anywhere else) first round is on me. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/toast.gif" alt="" />
Posted By: LocalSailor

Re: A Few More Newby Questions... - 02/04/2017 05:24 PM

The ferry company will provide the Customs form needed - you will have plenty of time in the waiting area or onboard to fill them out.
Grab the 1st taxi ready to leave even if there are more people aboard - cost to where?
The rental equipment operator may be able to get you the fishing license - call them now.
Posted By: GeorgeC1

Re: A Few More Newby Questions... - 02/04/2017 05:28 PM

Make sure the boat is licensed for fishing before you buy a personal license.
G
Posted By: charlie

Re: A Few More Newby Questions... - 02/04/2017 05:35 PM

When filling out the C&I form be sure to use a black or blue ink pen. Any other color's such as green, red, pink, etc. will get you sent to the back of the line to re-do the form.
Posted By: steve74

Re: A Few More Newby Questions... - 02/05/2017 12:45 AM

The only reason to contact someone is to arrange a private taxi, and this would not be worth it. There will be taxis leaving with others that you can join. However, I would just confirm that they will drop you at the BVI ferry terminal first since it should be on the way to the destinations of the others in the taxi. If you meet someone on the plane that is going to the BVI terminal, you could join up with them. Regarding the ferry, I assume you know that you want the fast ferry that goes directly to Road Town - assuming Road Town is your preference. We arrived at 3:30 pm last year and they said the 4:00 pm fast ferry was sold out. We rode the old, hot ferry to West End and then to Road Town. It wasn't the best experience. Good luck!
Posted By: JustBS

Re: A Few More Newby Questions... - 02/05/2017 10:34 AM

Quote
LocalSailor said:
The ferry company will provide the Customs form needed - you will have plenty of time in the waiting area or onboard to fill them out.
Grab the 1st taxi ready to leave even if there are more people aboard - cost to where?

From the airport to the the ferry terminal.
Posted By: JustBS

Re: A Few More Newby Questions... - 02/05/2017 10:36 AM

Quote
GeorgeC1 said:
Make sure the boat is licensed for fishing before you buy a personal license.
G


I've checked and it is...

The real question, and I realize it is a subjective one, is, is it worth it? I am a substance fisherman. I like to eat what I catch. Not really into catch & release, or just fishing to pass the time. Everything I have read, is that the fishing isn't all that great there. Considering my situation (others not interested in fishing), do you think it's worth the money for the slim chance at catching a tuna or dolphin fish?
Posted By: GeorgeC1

Re: A Few More Newby Questions... - 02/05/2017 12:17 PM

The fishing is excellent if you go to the North drop. It's ok off the south drop. It's a long way to the N drop and if you are the only person into fishing the rest of the crew will not like it. Inshore most of what you catch will be Bonito, Barracuda and a mackerel now and then. None considered all that good to eat. Once in a blue moon however you will get something good inshore like a Mahi. Usually on the N side of Tortola.
G
Posted By: trueblue

Re: A Few More Newby Questions... - 02/06/2017 03:48 PM

I do not fish, but my understanding is that the fines for unlicenced fishing are quite high. My question is this: if the boat is licensed for fishing, is an individual license also required?
Posted By: GeorgeC1

Re: A Few More Newby Questions... - 02/06/2017 04:58 PM

Yes, a individual license is also required. In addition you are required to have the standard international fishing markings displayed on the boat. I have yet to see a single boat displaying the markings. In every other country in the world those markings are for large commercial fishing boats. Only the BVI requires it for recreational fishing. Figuring this was a simple mistake I called and inquired. I was told the boat license is invalid if the boat is not marked properly.
G
© 2024 TravelTalkOnline