St. Barts (Saint Barthélemy) is known for luxury travel, designer shopping, celebrity beaches, boutique hotels, and gourmet dining.
The most popular way to reach St. Barts from St. Martin is via high-speed passenger ferry, with multiple departures daily.
Perfect for day trips, luxury vacations, and island-hopping itineraries, this guide covers everything you need to know—schedules, prices, passports and what to expect onboard.
🚢 Ferry Route Overview
| Route | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| St. Martin (Marigot or Oyster Pond) → St. Barts (Gustavia) | 45–60 minutes | High-speed catamaran |
📍 Arrival Port: Gustavia Harbor (main town of St. Barts)
⏰ Ferry Schedule (Typical 2025 Service)
Departures from Marigot (St. Martin) → Gustavia
| Time |
|---|
| 7:00 AM |
| 9:30 AM |
| 12:30 PM |
| 3:00 PM |
| 6:45 PM (seasonal) |
Departures from Gustavia → St. Martin
| Time |
|---|
| 8:30 AM |
| 11:00 AM |
| 2:15 PM |
| 4:30 PM |
| 7:15 PM (seasonal) |
⚠ Sea conditions vary — the trip can be rough on windy days
💸 Ticket Prices (2025)
| Ticket Type | Price |
|---|---|
| One way | $60–$80 USD |
| Round trip | $110–$140 USD |
| Port fees | $5–$10 USD |
💡 Book early for holidays (Christmas/New Year & St. Barts Bucket Regatta)
🎟 Where to Buy Tickets
| Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Online booking | Great Bay Express / Voyager Ferries |
| Terminal offices | Limited day-of seats |
🛂 Passport Requirements
| Citizenship | Requirement |
|---|---|
| U.S., Canada, EU & UK | Passport required |
| Visa | Not needed for short tourism stays |
Customs inspection occurs on arrival.
🌊 Weather & Sea Conditions
The crossing can be rough during winter winds (Dec–March)
💡 Tips:
- Take Dramamine 30 minutes before departure
- Sit toward the back of the boat to reduce motion
- Bring waterproof bag for belongings
🏝 What to Do in St. Barts on a Day Trip
| Activity | Info |
|---|---|
| Visit Shell Beach | Walkable from ferry dock |
| Explore Gustavia | Luxury shops + restaurants |
| Rent a Mini Cooper / scooter | Explore island beaches |
| Beach-hop: St. Jean & Gouverneur | 10–20 min taxi |
| Nikki Beach brunch & parties | Famous beach club |
🍽 Best Restaurants for Day Visitors
| Name | Vibe |
|---|---|
| Nikki Beach | Luxury party brunch |
| Shellona (Shell Beach) | Chic beach dining |
| Bonito | Fine dining with views |
| Le Select | Casual iconic burger spot |
🏖 Best Beaches Near the Ferry Terminal
| Beach | Travel Time |
|---|---|
| Shell Beach | 5 min walk |
| St. Jean Beach | 10 min taxi |
| Gouverneur Beach | 15–20 min taxi |
🚕 Transportation in St. Barts
| Option | Notes |
|---|---|
| Taxi | Expensive but reliable |
| Scooter rental | Popular & cheaper |
| Car rental | Best for exploring |
💡 No Uber or rideshare
🧠 First-Time Tips
- Bring sunscreen & water — hot & dusty roads
- Budget extra time for customs
- Return early to avoid long lines
- Dress smart casual — St. Barts has a chic vibe
🏁 Final Summary
The St. Martin → St. Barts ferry is the fastest and most affordable way to visit one of the most luxurious islands in the Caribbean.
Perfect for day trips, shopping, dining, and exploring iconic beaches.
Internal Links
- Anguilla Ferry Guide
- St. Martin Travel Guide
- St. Barts Beaches & Restaurants Guide
- Best Luxury Islands Caribbean
- Caribbean Ferry Master Guide
Spanish Summary — Resumen en Español
El ferry entre St. Martin y St. Barts dura alrededor de 45–60 minutos y cuesta entre $60 y $80 USD. Es ideal para excursiones de un día a St. Barts, famosa por sus playas, restaurantes y ambiente de lujo.
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