A joint media release issued by three of the ferry companies – Road Town Fast Ferry, Native Son, and Smith’s Ferry Services – said precautionary measures must be put in place as the territory enters the heart of the 2022 hurricane season.

With effect from September 14 and for the next five weeks, the ferry companies said they will be operating on a temporarily reduced schedule.

The proposed adjusted schedule, the release said, will be used until October 22, at which time it is anticipated that the demand for travel will begin to increase, and the territory will be on the exit end of the hurricane season.

According to the statement, the 11:30 am and 2:30 pm departures from Road Town are suspended, except for Fridays and Saturdays when the 2:30 pm will be operated. Further to this, the 9 am and 2:30 pm departures from Charlotte Amalie are suspended, again except for Fridays and Saturdays when a 9:30 am will be operated.

The companies said they remain committed to the people of the BVI and are diligently monitoring their online bookings at this time.

It was noted that this allows us the ability to pre-determine when an increase in capacity is needed so that additional trips and/or larger vessels can be added to meet the demand.

To expedite the check-in process, all travellers were reminded that check-in time is 45 minutes before departure.

Travellers were also reminded that the schedule is subject to change or be suspended in the event of adverse weather conditions.