We took Ocean Dreams (10:15) WE to CA on April 25. It took a while to disembark, as they first unloaded all the luggage. We cleared customs/immigration at 11:30 - 11:45. There was another ferry "parked" in the harbor waiting for us to move out for about 20 minutes.

Just as a follow up on our ferry departing WE at 7:15 AM on Friday, May 5th....after several phone calls they promised me that a ferry would pick us up at 7:15 on Friday and they did just that. They left RT at 7 and then picked us up at 7:15 at Sophers. In total I think there were 10 of us on the boat to CA. All's well that ends well but with a bit of ferry drama we survived. <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Clapping.gif" alt="" />

mappy <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/Clapping.gif" alt="" />

but vacation should not be that hectic & filled with worry & changes, no more ferries for us, always fly even if with a small plane & so enjoyable & stress free (usually) always some stress when travelling these days. Still love the BVI & will make it work <img src="http://www.traveltalkonline.com/forums/images/graemlins/dine.gif" alt="" />

Sorry for the late response, but a few ways to avoid the ferry hassle from a long time BVI traveler. One is to stay overnight on STT. There are several hotels that are near the airport. The other is if you are a group, hire a water taxi. Depending on your group size it can be not too much more expensive per person than the commercial ferries. Also (which I did recently) fly from Beef to STT. Again depending on how many in your group it can be very affordable and totally hassle free at the airport. Of course, if none of these work for you the rule of thumb is no matter what your flight time, get the first ferry out. You can always breakfast at the PPR above the dock. You can check your luggage curb side and relax. Just catch a cab to the airport in time for the pre- flight check in. I have found that airport lines are worst on weekends, so if your schedule permits, avoid those days.