Transfer Options for Sandals Resorts in St. Lucia
- Kira Solomon
- Aug 7
- 4 min read
Planning your escape to Sandals Resorts in Saint Lucia? Here's a blog breakdown of the top airport-to-resort transfer options, complete with tips on what's included, timings, price points, and ambiance. Whether you're after convenience, luxury, or a scenic ride, there's something for every traveler.
1. Included Transfers by Sandals Resorts
Sandals offers complimentary shared shuttle transfers from both of Saint Lucia’s airports (Hewanorra UVF and George F.L. Charles SLU). These come wrapped in resort-level hospitality:
Where To Go: You'll be greeted at immigration and luggage, escorted to the Sandals airport lounge, and directed to your air‑conditioned van.
What To Expect: The ride from UVF takes roughly 2 hours (about 120 minutes), passing through scenic yet winding island roads. From SLU, the drive is much shorter—about 15–20 minutes, but flights to this airport are harder to find and usually have more complicated itineraries.
This Is Good For: Travelers who prefer a no‑hassle cost included arrival—you’ll arrive relaxed and checked in without extra steps.
2. Private Car Transfers with Island Routes
Prefer privacy and flexibility? Island Routes offer exclusive private transfers from UVF airport straight to your resort:
Typical pricing: around US $116 per person per vehicle for up to two passengers.
Duration: roughly 90-120 minutes minutes.
Benefits: door‑to‑door pick‑up, no waiting for other passengers, and often you can stop for refreshments or photos or tell the driver not to stop.
This Is Good For: Travelers with motion sensitivity often say it’s worth paying extra to avoid shared shuttles because you can request stops or ask the driver to take it slow or be extra careful with turns and curves.
3. Boat Transfer with FunToSee Island Ferry
Turn your commute into an experience with FunToSee Island Ferry, a highly rated mixed land‑and‑sea transfer:
What Is Included: Ground transport from UVF to the dock (~5–7 minutes), a scenic boat ride of 90–120 minutes, then short taxi drives to your resort.
What To Expect: Onboard offerings: complimentary wine, beer, champagne, soft drinks, snacks, music, commentary, and restrooms.
Cost: approximately US $125–140 per person.
This Is Good For: Travelers who would like to stretch out after a long flight and enjoy island views from the water.
4. Helicopter Transfers with Island Routes / St. Lucia Helicopters
For the ultimate in luxury and speed, consider a helicopter transfer. Arranged via Island Routes or directly through St. Lucia Helicopters:
What To Expect: After checking-in at the Sandals lounge at UVF, you'll be escorted to your helicopter transfer. It is a short 10–15 minute flight that lands you near Sandals Grande or Halcyon—no winding roads. Additional ground transfer to resort is another 15 minutes and included with the Island Routes package.
Pricing: around US $190–240 per person, plus a small taxi charge (approx. $35–40) for any remaining ground leg. If you book with Island Routes, the taxi charges are included in the package.
Requirements: helicopter operators often require minimum passenger numbers and no flights after sunset. Offers spectacular aerial views of the island, including the famous Pitons (volcanic plugs), and bypasses car-sickness inducing roads.
Important To Note: If you book this but the minimum passenger number isn't met, then the flight will be canceled and you'll need to take the included transfer. Space is limited and there are strict weight restrictions, so only a small personal item such as purses, backpacks or laptop bags are allowed to accompany you on the flight. Your larger bags such as carry-ons and suitcases will be loaded into the Sandals Resorts transfer vans and will meet you at the resort. Make sure to carry all important items such as passports, wallets, medication, etc. with you in your personal bag so you have it with you at all times.
Quick Comparison Table Of The Transfer Options for Sandals Resorts in St. Lucia
Transfer Option | Duration | Price (Approx.) | Highlights |
Sandals Standard Shuttle | ~120 min from UVF | Included with resort stay | Hassle‑free, shared, included service |
Private Car (Island Routes) | ~90–150 min | $70–125 per vehicle | Private, flexible, scenic stops |
FunToSee Island Ferry | ~90–120 min | $125–140 per person | Scenic boat ride with drinks & snacks |
Helicopter Ride (Island Routes) | ~10–15 min (plus van) | $190–240 per person + ~$35 taxi | Fast, stunning views, premium experience |
Who Each Option Is Best For
For zero-stress arrivals and cost-included ease: Standard Sandals shuttle
For privacy or travel group flexibility: Private car transfer
For those who want to unwind, drink, and sightsee immediately: FunToSee Ferry
For travelers seeking speed, scenery, and luxury: Helicopter transfer
Final Thoughts
All of these options for Sandals Resorts in St. Lucia offer safe, comfortable island transfers—whether you want the budget‑friendly inclusivity of Sandals’ shared vans, the privacy of a private car, the adventure of a ferry ride, or the excitement of helicopter views. Whichever route you take, each ensures you arrive at your Sandals resort ready to dive into luxury—and island time.
Comments