Island-hopping between the U.S. Virgin Islands (St. Thomas) and the British Virgin Islands (Tortola) is one of the best moves in the Caribbean—beautiful views, quick crossing, and you can be on a different island in under an hour.
But because you’re crossing an international border, ferry travel here is more than “just buy a ticket and hop on.” You’ll deal with customs, immigration, and fees, and choosing the right terminals makes a big difference.
This guide breaks it all down in the same simple layout you use on DontTalkJustTravel.com.
⚡ Quick Answer
- Best choice for most travelers staying on the east end of St. Thomas: Red Hook → West End (Tortola)
- Best choice if you’re near downtown St. Thomas / cruise port area: Charlotte Amalie → Road Town (Tortola)
- Best choice if you’re connecting to Jost Van Dyke: West End (Tortola) is usually the easiest jumping-off point.
🗺️ Ferry Terminals: Which One Should You Use?
St. Thomas Departure Options
1) Red Hook (East End)
- Best if you’re staying near: Red Hook, Sapphire, Margaritaville area, or coming from St. John connections
- Very common for Tortola ferry runs
2) Charlotte Amalie (Downtown)
- Best if you’re staying near: downtown hotels, cruise area, or want easy taxi access
- Often runs to Road Town (Tortola)
Tortola Arrival Options
1) West End (Soper’s Hole)
- Best for: quick access to Jost Van Dyke, western Tortola, and a more “boat-hopping” vibe
- Great if your final destination is on the west side of Tortola
2) Road Town (Capital / Road Harbour)
- Best for: central Tortola, more transport options, and connecting deeper into Tortola
Simple rule:
If your Tortola plans are west (Soper’s Hole, Jost connections) → choose West End.
If your plans are central/east → choose Road Town.
⏱️ How Long Is the Ferry Ride?
Typical crossing time depends on route and whether there’s a stop:
- Red Hook ↔ West End: often about 35–45 minutes on the water
- Charlotte Amalie ↔ Road Town: often about 45–60 minutes on the water
- Realistic total travel time: plan 2–3 hours door-to-door once you include check-in + customs/immigration
Important: On some return trips, the ferry may stop at St. John for clearance before continuing to St. Thomas. That’s normal—just follow instructions.
🕒 Schedule Tips (What Travelers Should Know)
Ferry times can change due to season, demand, and sea conditions.
Best planning strategy:
- Choose your route first (Red Hook/Charlotte Amalie + West End/Road Town)
- Then check the current week’s schedule directly with ferry operators
- Build buffer time if you have a flight, charter check-in, or timed tour
Pro tip: If you must arrive by a certain time, consider going the day before or use a private water taxi.
💰 Ferry Prices & Fees (What to Budget)
Ferry ticket prices vary by operator and route, but here’s what most travelers should expect:
Typical ticket range (per person)
- One-way: often around $50–$70
- Round-trip: often around $90–$120
- Kids and seniors usually have discounted rates
Extra costs to expect
- BVI departure tax when leaving Tortola by ferry (carry cash just in case)
- Baggage fees for more than a small personal item (extra bags are commonly charged per piece)
- Occasional terminal/processing fees depending on route/operator
Money tip: Bring $40–$60 cash per person for fees + baggage so you’re never stuck.
🛂 Passport, Customs & Immigration (Don’t Skip This)
You are entering the British Virgin Islands, so you will need:
- A valid passport (for the BVI)
- Enough time to clear immigration + customs on arrival
- On the way back, you’ll clear U.S. customs entering USVI
BVI e-Form / Travel Form
The BVI may require an online immigration/customs form (often called an entry card). Some travelers complete it before arrival; others do it at/after ticket purchase depending on the process at the terminal.
Best practice: complete it in advance when possible and keep:
- A screenshot on your phone, and/or
- A printed copy (backup)
✅ Step-by-Step: How the Trip Usually Works
- Arrive at the terminal 45–60 minutes early
- Check in and get your boarding pass
- Go through exit/entry processing as directed
- Board the ferry
- Arrive in Tortola and clear immigration/customs
- Grab a taxi/rental/transfer to your hotel or marina
🧳 What to Pack for a Smooth Ferry Day
- Passport (and a backup photo of it)
- Cash (small bills help)
- Light jacket (some ferries blast A/C)
- Dry bag or zip pouch for documents
- Motion sickness remedy (if you’re sensitive)
- Water + snack (especially for kids)
🚫 Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Showing up “airport late” (arrive early—customs takes time)
- Not carrying cash for fees/baggage
- Booking tight connections (ferry delays happen)
- Choosing the wrong terminal for your destination (West End vs Road Town matters!)
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Can I do a Tortola day trip from St. Thomas?
Yes—many people do. Just choose an early departure and give yourself a generous buffer for customs on the return.
Do I need a passport to go from St. Thomas to Tortola?
Yes—Tortola is the BVI, and you’ll need a passport to enter.
Which is easier: West End or Road Town?
West End is often easiest for western Tortola and connections (like Jost). Road Town is best for central Tortola and broader transport options.
🇪🇸 Versión en Español (Resumen)
El ferry entre St. Thomas (USVI) y Tortola (BVI) es una de las formas más bonitas de viajar entre islas, pero recuerda que es un cruce internacional.
Lo más importante: pasaporte, llegar temprano (45–60 minutos), llevar efectivo para impuestos/salidas y considerar bien los puertos: Red Hook o Charlotte Amalie (St. Thomas) y West End o Road Town (Tortola).
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