Vieques is a quiet paradise off the east coast of Puerto Rico, known for wild horses, untouched beaches, and the world-famous Bioluminescent Mosquito Bay, the brightest bio bay on Earth.
The easiest and most affordable way to get to Vieques is by ferry from Ceiba, Puerto Rico — a short and scenic ride.
This guide explains everything you need to know to plan your trip: tickets, ferry times, transportation, and tips for visiting.
🚢 How to Get to Vieques by Ferry
All ferries depart from the Ceiba Ferry Terminal, about a 1 hr 15 min drive from San Juan.
📍 Departure Terminal
- Ceiba Ferry Terminal (Roosevelt Roads)
- Parking & shuttles available
⏰ Ferry Schedule (Typical Daily Times)
| Route | Departures |
|---|---|
| Ceiba → Vieques | 6:00 AM • 10:00 AM • 1:00 PM • 4:00 PM • 8:30 PM |
| Vieques → Ceiba | 6:30 AM • 11:00 AM • 2:00 PM • 6:00 PM |
⚠ Schedules vary by season, weather & holidays — always check online before travel
💸 Ticket Prices (2025)
| Passenger Type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults | $3–$6 |
| Children | $2–$3 |
| Residents | Discount price |
🎫 Always book online early — holidays & weekends sell out fast
🎟 Where to Buy Tickets
| Option | Site |
|---|---|
| Online | ferry.pr.gov |
| Terminal Office | Walk-up window (limited availability) |
💡 Buy tickets 1–3 weeks in advance for holiday travel
🚗 Parking
| Option | Cost |
|---|---|
| Ferry terminal lot | $10/day |
| Free overflow lots | Shuttles available |
🏝 How to Get Around in Vieques
| Option | Price |
|---|---|
| Jeep rental | $70–$120/day |
| Scooter rental | $50–$80/day |
| Golf cart rental | $60–$90/day |
| Publicos (shared taxis) | $5–$10 per person |
🚙 Jeep recommended for reaching remote beaches like Playa Negra and Navío
🏖 Best Beaches in Vieques
| Beach | Why Visit |
|---|---|
| Playa Caracas (Red Beach) | Calm & great swimming |
| Playa La Chiva (Blue Beach) | Best snorkeling |
| Playa Negra | Black sand |
| Playa Navío | Dramatic coastal scenery |
| Sun Bay | Near town & camping allowed |
🌟 Bioluminescent Bay (Bio Bay)
The brightest bioluminescent bay in the world
- Located in Mosquito Bay
- Best on new moon nights
- Book a kayak or electric boat tour
Tips:
- No swimming allowed
- Avoid bug spray in the water
- Wear dark clothing for better visibility
☀ Best Things to Do in Vieques
✔ Bio Bay night tour
✔ Explore remote beaches
✔ Snorkel with sea turtles
✔ Horseback riding
✔ Kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding
🧠 Important Tips
- Arrive 1 hour early to board
- Bring cash for taxis and food kiosks
- Bring snacks and water
- Expect some motion on rough days
- Phone signal limited in remote areas
🏁 Summary
The Ceiba ↔ Vieques ferry is the best way to visit Vieques affordably and enjoy its natural beauty, wild freedom, and world-famous bioluminescent bay.
Internal Links
- Puerto Rico Travel Guide
- Puerto Rico to Culebra Ferry Guide
- Best Beaches in Puerto Rico
- Vieques vs Culebra Comparison
- Bioluminescent Bay Guide
- Best Budget Islands
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
El ferry desde Ceiba a Vieques es la forma más económica y popular para llegar a la isla. Los boletos cuestan alrededor de $3–$7 y el viaje dura aproximadamente una hora. Vieques es famosa por sus playas hermosas y su Bahía Bioluminiscente.
Leave a Reply