BVI packing and transfers: prepare for the island you booked

Pack for a boat outing and a transfer day separately. Keep travel documents, booking details and a dry change of clothing readily accessible.

Keep documents accessible

Check entry requirements for your nationality through official sources. The BVI Tourist Board directs arrivals to the online immigration and customs form, available from 72 hours before arrival. Keep the receipt available offline. Travelling through the USVI adds a separate border and transit question.

Prepare a small boat-day bag

Bring swimwear, a towel, sun protection, water and a dry change of clothing. Secure your phone and documents against spray. Confirm what the specific tour supplies: snorkeling gear and drinks are included in the catamaran offer, but food is listed separately. Do not infer lunch from a photograph or a past review.

Check boarding and access

Ask about the boarding method, steps, walking surfaces and any swim ashore. Explain your actual requirements before booking; a private group does not automatically mean an accessible boat. Confirm the access requirements of the specific activity with its operator.

Prepare the transfer day

Record the airport or port, hotel island, terminal and onward connection. Keep the operator's current instructions offline. Check luggage rules with each carrier. For an arrival late in the day, confirm an onward service rather than assuming a boat will still be available.

A final check the evening before

Recheck the meeting point, local start time, cancellation terms and return arrangements. For kayaking, the listing includes equipment and port transport but excludes towels and sunscreen. Match your bag to the offer you booked and follow the operator's instructions around wildlife and marine habitats.