Overview
Montserrat is a tranquil, relaxing island where you can hike, bird watch, snorkel or just relax and play a game of dominoes. The tiny Caribbean nation was hard hit when the Soufrière Hills volcano erupted for the first time in 1995 and a second time in 1997. Almost half of the island became uninhabitable, including the capital, Plymouth. Today she is half buried under a layer of ash and mud. The country’s economy collapsed and around two thirds of the former 12,000 inhabitants left their homeland. The volcano is still active and large parts of the island cannot be entered. See other countries in North America on ehealthfacts.
Getting there
Arriving by plane
There are no direct flights to Montserrat from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. The nearest airport flying to from Europe is on Antigua. British Airways (BA) flies to Antigua from Germany, Austria and Switzerland with a stopover and airport change in London. Feeder flights to London with Lufthansa (LH), Austrian Airlines (OS) and Swiss (LX) are possible. Fly Montserrat (5M) and BMN Air connect Antigua to Montserrat daily, and Caribbean Helicopters offer inter-island helicopter flights (flight time: 20 mins). KLM (KL), Air France (AF) and Corsair International (SS) offer flight services to Sint Maarten on.
Flight times
Frankfurt/M. – Antigua: 13 hrs 45 mins; Vienna – Antigua: 23 hrs 20 mins; Zurich – Antigua: 25 hrs 25 mins; (each with stops; the travel time varies depending on the length of stay); Antigua – Montserrat: 20 mins
Departure fee
Approximately €19 (US$21) payable when departing from Montserrat.
Arrival by ship
The island’s main port is Little Bay on the west coast.
Ferry provider
A fast ferry runs regularly between Heritage Quay on Antigua and Little Bay on Montserrat (journey time: approximately 1 hour).
Transportation
Traveling by car/bus
The road network has a total length of approx. 220 km and connects the villages. Gas stations: There are 2 gas stations on Montserrat.
Right-hand traffic/left-hand traffic
Left
Condition of the roads
In the northern part of Montserrat, the roads are paved; they are narrow and very curvaceous. The capital Plymouth and the southern part of the island are no longer accessible due to volcanic eruptions.
Car rental
Rental cars are available on the island from various providers. Gage’s Car Rental will deliver the rental car to and from the airport. Drivers must be at least 18 years old.
Taxi
Taxis can be found at the ferry terminal and airport and can be hailed on the street. Fixed prices apply on standard routes; However, travelers should always inquire about the price in advance. Taxis usually only run during the day.
Bicycle
It is possible to rent bicycles.
Coach
Minibuses serve the island’s main routes, but also take tourists off these routes at an additional cost. The buses also stop at the side of the road on hand signals. Excursions are also offered.
Regulations
Traffic regulations: – alcohol limit: 0.8 ‰; Speed limits: – urban: 32 km/h (20 mph); – extra urban: 64 km/h (40 mph).
Roadside Assistance
The ADAC foreign emergency call offers ADAC members and holders of ADAC foreign health and accident insurance comprehensive assistance in the event of vehicle breakdowns, traffic accidents, loss of documents and money, and medical emergencies. The emergency number is available around the clock; in the event of damage to the vehicle: Tel. +49 (0)89 22 22 22, in the event of illness: +49 (0)89 76 76 76. In the event of breakdowns or accidents with the rental car, the car rental company should be contacted first.
Documentation
In addition to the national driver’s license, the international driver’s license is required. A local driver’s license is also required to hire a vehicle, which can be obtained from Brades Airport or Brades Police Station.
Traveling by ship
Yachts can be rented. The largest port is Little Bay.
