15 January 2018

Post-hurricane private charter in the Caribbean

The Caribbean travel season is now in full swing. But after last September’s series of hurricanes, some travellers are understandably more hesitant about making travel plans.

But the good news is that the Caribbean is very much open and welcoming visitors. Irma and Maria did wreak havoc in many popular destinations but recovery efforts are making great headway. Many other destinations escaped with just light or moderate damage, and others were outside of the hurricanes’ paths completely.

Tourism is of huge economic importance to most Caribbean islands and communities, and encouraging visitors to keep coming is one of the biggest priorities for recovery efforts. So if you’re looking to chase the sun this winter, hurricane damage shouldn’t deter you. Here’s a look at some places to consider this year.

ST BARTS, ST MAARTEN & SABA

The luxury travel hotspot of St Barts was badly hit by Hurricane Irma, but since September there has been a huge rebuilding effort, which will continue throughout this season.

Some hotels and properties are even taking the opportunity to improve and upgrade their facilities further, including the exclusive Tom Beach Hotel and beach lounge in St Jean.

Nearby St Maarten (from where most private charter flights to St Barts depart) was also badly hit, but the airport and the popular cruise port were reopened quickly. Many hotels remain closed but rebuilding efforts are well underway and will continue throughout this year.

Private flights to and from St Maarten and St Barts are operational, with private charter services to St Barts available into St Barts Gustav III Airport.

Saba is another beautiful island destination, connected by private flights from St Maarten (winner of our Scenic Airports Poll 2017 for its stunning landing). It suffered less hurricane damage than some of its neighbours.

THE DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

The Dominican Republic did see some damage from last year’s hurricane season. The tourist board is keen that visitors understand that the island may look a little different, but tourists are very welcome with many hotels and luxury resorts now open and recovery efforts ongoing.

Most private flights to the Dominican Republic operate in or out of Punta Cana International Airport.

ST LUCIA

Nicknamed the ‘Helen of the West’, St Lucia’s palm-fringed beaches and magical Piton Mountains have been growing in popularity with luxury travellers in recent years. And since it was located outside of the hurricane zone this year, it emerged from the storms largely untouched.

Hewanorra International Airport is the biggest private jet airport serving St Lucia, and connects the island with other Caribbean destinations and internationally.

THE BAHAMAS

One of the most popular destinations for private jet customers, many will be happy to hear that the Bahamas suffered little damage this year, meaning it is up and running per usual and accepting visitors.

Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau is the major international airport for the Bahamas. This airport is a popular hub for those arriving in the region from the US, for business and luxury travel, accommodating airline flights and private jets of all sizes

GRENADA

Dubbed the ‘Spice of the Caribbean’, beautiful Grenada largely escaped hurricane damage last year and is fully operational and open to tourists.

Private jets can land at Lauriston Airport (also known as Carriacou Island Airport) on the island of Carriacou in Grenada.

JAMAICA

Largely unaffected by the storms, Jamaica continues to offer its diverse attractions to the luxury traveller this season. From adventures in the Blue Mountains, trekking through the rainforest, its distinctive food and culture, and its famous beach sunsets.

There are three international airports in Jamaica available for private jet travellers: Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Kingston’s Norman Manley International Airport, and Ian Fleming International Airport.

ST KITTS AND NEVIS

The beautiful small islands of St Kitts and Nevis escaped this year’s hurricane path and are open for business as usual. Head here to enjoy their well-known beaches and cloud-shrouded mountains.

Private flights can use the VIP terminal at Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport, on St Kitts. There is also a small airport on Nevis.

MUSTIQUE

The island of Mustique, in St Vincent and the Grenadines, was another exclusive destination spared from much hurricane damage. And many of its luxury villas are open for visitors. Mustique Airport has a short runway, available to private propellor aircraft.

To book a private charter to any Caribbean destination, speak to our expert Flight Team for advice 24/7. Contact us or call +44 (0)20 7100 6960

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