Andros has three separate airports serving its three sections, all operating on small aircraft from Nassau. There is no nonstop jet service from the US to most of Andros, and no single gateway that covers the whole island. Which airport you fly into determines which part of the island you land on, and the three sections are not connected by road.
By Air
From Nassau
The primary routing for most visitors is a short hop from Nassau's Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) on one of the regional carriers that serve all three Andros airports. Western Air and Bahamasair both operate this route. The flights are on small turboprop aircraft; journey time is 20–40 minutes depending on the destination airport. Round-trip fares from Nassau to Andros typically run $100–180.
The three airports:
San Andros (NAB), Serves North Andros, the largest and most visited section. Closest to Nicholls Town, the settlement of Red Bays, and the dive lodges near Fresh Creek. Most travelers to Small Hope Bay Lodge or Kamalame Cay use this airport.
Andros Town / Fresh Creek (ASD), Serves central Andros at Fresh Creek, a small town that functions as the island's informal hub. Useful for lodges in the Fresh Creek area.
Congo Town (COX), Serves South Andros, the quietest and least-visited section. Tiamo Resort guests typically arrive here.
From the US
Silver Airways has operated seasonal nonstop service from Fort Lauderdale to Congo Town (COX). No reliable nonstop service from other US cities has been established. Most visitors from the continental US must connect through Nassau.
By Sea
Government Ferry (Water Taxi / Fast Ferry)
The Bahamas Fast Ferry and government mail boats connect Nassau's Potter's Cay Dock with several Andros ports. Departure frequency varies by destination and season; the fast ferry is more predictable than the mail boat.
The crossing to Fresh Creek (Central Andros) takes approximately 4–5 hours on a fast ferry; mail boats take longer and may stop at multiple ports. This is a viable option if you are not in a hurry and want to bring more luggage or gear than the small aircraft allow. Bonefishing guides sometimes use this route for gear transport.
Private Boat
The Tongue of the Ocean between Andros and Nassau is well-charted. Mariners crossing from Nassau to Fresh Creek cover roughly 25–30 nautical miles. The crossing is exposed and should be timed for calm conditions. Marinas at Fresh Creek and Nicholls Town can accommodate visiting boats.
Practical Notes
- The three Andros airports are not interchangeable. Verify which section of Andros your lodge is in before booking flights.
- Most lodges, particularly the all-inclusive properties, offer airport transfers. Confirm this when booking; Andros has no metered taxi network and ad hoc transport is limited.
- Small aircraft weight and baggage limits are strictly enforced. Fishing rods, dive equipment, and large bags can create problems. Contact the airline before travel if bringing significant gear.
- Weather delays are more common on the small aircraft routes than on commercial jets. Build flexibility into your schedule, especially around the first and last days of a trip.