Overview
St. Eustatius, often called Statia by locals, was a prosperous port during the 17th and 18th centuries. In the Caribbean, the island was then known as “Golden Rock”. The economic deterioration of St. Eustatius that has occurred since then has only reversed since the development of tourism. The foundations of the Dutch sea wall are now completely submerged in the clear water and offer divers and snorkelers an interesting insight into times long past. Other island attractions include The Quill volcano, which you can hike, surfing off the northeast coast, and popular fishing trips. Nightlife takes place mainly in the larger hotels and restaurants of St. Eustatius. There, live bands mainly play two native mixtures of reggae and calypso, “Pim Pim” and “Hippy”. See other countries in North America on computerannals.
Getting there
Arriving by plane
There are no direct flights to St. Eustatius from Germany, Austria and Switzerland. Air France (AF) flies non-stop from Paris and KLM (KL) from Amsterdam to St Maarten; Onward flight to St. Eustatius with Winair (WM). Feeder flights to Paris and Amsterdam are possible from Germany, Austria and Switzerland with Air France (AF) or KLM (KL) and the national airlines.
Flight times
Paris – Sint Maarten: 9 hrs 5 mins; Amsterdam – Sint Maarten: 9 hours; Sint Maarten – St. Eustatius: 25 min. (The journey time varies depending on the length of stays.)
Departure fee
An airport tax of approximately €8.50 (US$10) is charged for flights departing from St. Eustatius.
Arrival by car
Tolls: There are no toll roads on St. Eustatius. Documents: The national driving license is sufficient.
Arrival by ship
Some smaller cruise ships dock at St. Eustatius. Small boats go to the other Windward Islands; it takes about 2 hours to drive to Saba.
Cruise ships
The SeaDream Yacht Club offers St. Eustatius on its Caribbean cruises.
Ferry provider
Greatbay Express ferries connect St. Maarten to St. Eustatius once a week (journey time: 1 hr 45 mins).
Transportation
Traveling by car/bus
The very small island has only a few traffic routes. A dirt road runs along the coast and a path leads to the edge of The Quill in the south of the island.
Right-hand traffic/left-hand traffic
Right
Car rental
There are several rental car companies in Oranjestad. The minimum age for the various providers is 21 or 23 years.
Taxi
Taxis are available at the airport and in Oranjestad; they are not metered. However, fares are fixed and should be inquired about before departure.
Bicycle
Bicycles and motorbikes can be rented in Oranjestad.
Coach
Arubus buses connect Oranjestadt with other places on the island.
Documentation
The national driving license is sufficient.
Traveling in the city
In Oranjestadt, a tram serves the route between the port and the center. The city can also be easily explored on foot.
