Jamaica is an island, so the only ways to reach it are by air or by sea. Both options have expanded in recent years as more airlines and cruise lines have added the island to their routes.
Travelling by air
Flying is the fastest and most convenient route. Visitors land at one of three international airports:
- Norman Manley International, Kingston. Best for Kingston, Mandeville, May Pen, St. Thomas, St. Mary and St. Catherine.
- Sangster International, Montego Bay. The main airport for Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Negril and St. Elizabeth.
- Ian Fleming International, near Ocho Rios. Serves much of the same area as Sangster, with smaller aircraft.
Small domestic airports also exist for travel within the island. A range of carriers fly to Jamaica, including American, Air Canada, JetBlue, Spirit, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, so fares are often competitive. Before you book, make sure your passport and any visa requirements are in order. For fare advice, read about cheap flights, and for each terminal see airports in Jamaica.
Travelling by sea
The second option is a cruise ship. Cruise calls have increased noticeably, and ships dock at Ocho Rios, Falmouth in Trelawny, Montego Bay or Port Antonio. Cruise passengers generally have less than twelve hours ashore, so planning ahead is important.
Typical shore options include:
- Ocho Rios: Dunn’s River Falls, Mystic Mountain, Margaritaville and Dolphin Cove.
- Montego Bay: Dolphin Cove, Rose Hall Great House, Doctor’s Cave Beach and Margaritaville.
Read the Dunn’s River Falls page for an idea of what to expect at one of the best-known stops.
Practical points
- Jamaica cannot be reached by road, so overland travel is not an option.
- Check entry requirements for your nationality before departure.
- Once you land, plan onward travel with the guide to getting around Jamaica.