New Ferry service between Antigua and Montserrat is almost ready to begin

In a week from today, the V2V Empress, a fast catamaran ferry capable of carrying 245 passengers, will begin offering transportation services between Antigua and Montserrat.

The service will be operated by NAVIYUC S.A. De C.V. and will run for five months until March of next year, with the vessel sailing five days per week during off-peak periods and six days per week during peak periods.

This development is expected to significantly improve connectivity between the two islands, particularly for residents of Montserrat who frequently travel to Antigua for business and shopping purposes.

In addition to serving residents, the V2V Empress will also cater to tourists who are interested in day tours from Montserrat to Antigua and Nevis, as well as travel between Antigua and Nevis with short stayovers in Montserrat.

The vessel arrived at the Nevis Street Pier in Antigua yesterday, where officials from the Customs & Excise Division and Immigration Department carried out necessary checks on the vessel and its crew ahead of the commencement of services.

Customs officers who participated in the checks reported that the vessel met all necessary requirements and expressed delight with its spaciousness and modern facilities. Further inspections from Port Authority officials are scheduled for today.

The V2V Empress is captained by Jesus Ramirez and has a seven-member Mexican crew.

It is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities, including a brand-new engine, ample storage space, accessibility for disabled passengers, and comfortable seating areas with modern amenities such as leather seats with charger ports and food trays.

The vessel has a capacity of 245 passengers, but according to the agreement, it will only transport 192 passengers on its daily trips, unless otherwise requested by the Montserratian government.

The estimated travel time between the islands is about an hour and a half due to the vessel’s power.