Ferry to the U.S. Virgin Islands: Routes, Costs & Island-Hopping Guide (2026)

The best way to experience the U.S. Virgin Islands is from the water.

Many travelers arrive by air, but ferries are what connect the islands. Some of my favorite moments in the Virgin Islands haven't happened on a beach or a hiking trail. They've happened on a ferry, watching one island disappear behind me while another slowly comes into view across the water.

If you're searching for a ferry to the U.S. Virgin Islands, this guide covers everything you need to know, including ferry routes, estimated costs, schedules, car barges, and island-hopping tips for St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix.

Why Take the Ferry in the U.S. Virgin Islands?

After taking these routes multiple times, I've found that taking the ferry has become a core of the island experience. You're out on the water, watching the view transition from one island to another feels like part of the adventure rather than simply getting from point A to point B.

A few reasons travelers prefer the ferry:

• Beautiful views throughout the journey
• Frequent service between St. Thomas and St. John
• Lower cost than inter-island flights
• Easy access to downtown areas and ferry towns

How the U.S. Virgin Islands Ferry System Works

St. Thomas serves as the transportation hub of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Most ferry routes either begin or connect through the island.

The primary routes include:

• St. Thomas to St. John
• St. Thomas to St. Croix
• St. Thomas to Water Island

Main Ferry Routes in the U.S. Virgin Islands

Red Hook, St. Thomas to Cruz Bay, St. John

This is the most popular ferry route in the U.S. Virgin Islands and the one most visitors end up taking. The crossing is quick, reliable, and runs throughout the day, making it the easiest way to reach St. John.

Travel Time: 15–20 minutes
Frequency: Approximately hourly departures
Operators: Varlack Ventures and Transportation Services
Fare: Around $8.15 per adult one-way, plus baggage fees

Personally, this is still my favorite crossing. It's short enough to be convenient but long enough to enjoy the views. Watching Cruz Bay come into sight always feels like arriving somewhere special.

Crown Bay Marina, St. Thomas to Cruz Bay, St. John

Located just minutes from Cyril E. King Airport, Crown Bay offers one of the most convenient ferry connections for arriving visitors. Instead of driving across St. Thomas to Red Hook, you can continue directly to St. John from the airport area.

Travel Time: About 35 minutes
Frequency: Limited daily departures
Operator: Inter Island Boat Services
Fare: Approximately $20 per adult one-way

For travelers arriving on a morning flight, this can be one of the easiest ways to get to St. John with minimal hassle.

Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas to Cruz Bay, St. John

Travelers staying near downtown St. Thomas often prefer this route because it eliminates the drive to Red Hook. The trip takes longer but offers a scenic ride across Pillsbury Sound.

Travel Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Frequency: Several departures daily
Operator: Inter Island Boat Services
Fare: Approximately $13 per adult one-way, plus baggage fees

I've taken this route when staying closer to Charlotte Amalie, and the extra time on the water can actually be a nice tradeoff if you're not in a hurry.

St. Thomas to St. Croix Ferry

Passenger ferry service connects St. Thomas and St. Croix on limited schedules throughout the year. Because schedules can change seasonally, it's important to check directly with the operator before making travel plans.

Travel Time: 90 minutes to 2 hours
Operator: Native Son Ferry
Fare: Approximately $60 per adult one-way

One thing worth knowing is that the water between St. Thomas and St. Croix can be rough at times. If you're prone to motion sickness, you'll want to keep an eye on the forecast.

Can You Take a Ferry Directly From St. John to St. Croix?

No. There is currently no direct passenger ferry between St. John and St. Croix. Travelers must connect through St. Thomas or choose a short inter-island flight.

Car Ferries Between St. Thomas and St. John

If you want the freedom to explore St. John on your own schedule, bringing a vehicle across can be a great option. Car barges operate between Red Hook, St. Thomas, and Enighed Pond in Cruz Bay.

Travel Time: About 30 minutes
Operators: Love City Car Ferries, Big Red Barge, Global Marine
Vehicle Cost: Approximately $65 one-way, plus applicable port fees

I've found that arriving 30 to 45 minutes early makes the process much smoother, especially during holidays and winter travel season.

One important note: many rental car companies on St. Thomas do not allow vehicles to be transported to St. John. Always verify rental policies before boarding a car barge.

Is There a Ferry From Puerto Rico to the U.S. Virgin Islands?

This is one of the most common questions travelers ask. Unfortunately, no regular public passenger ferry currently operates between Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

If you're traveling from Puerto Rico, flying from San Juan to St. Thomas is the most practical option. The flight typically takes less than one hour and offers multiple daily departures. Once you arrive in St. Thomas, you can continue your journey by ferry to St. John, Water Island, or St. Croix.

Ferry Travel Tips for the U.S. Virgin Islands

A little preparation makes ferry travel much smoother. Here are a few lessons I've learned over the years:

• Arrive Early: Be at the terminal at least 30 minutes before departure, especially for car ferries or during busy periods. Check-in typically closes 15 minutes prior.
• Cash is Handy: While some operators accept cards, cash is often best for tickets, luggage, and port fees.
• Pets: Policies vary. Small pets in carriers are generally allowed on passenger ferries, but confirm in advance.
• Accessibility: If you require assistance (wheelchairs, strollers), call the ferry operator directly ahead of time to confirm arrangements.
• Weather Check: Rough seas can cause delays or cancellations, especially for the St. Croix route. Check local forecasts and operator announcements.
• Schedules Change: "Island time" is real! Schedules can change without much notice. Always confirm the latest schedule directly with the ferry operator before heading to the terminal.
• Terminal Parking:
  • Red Hook Terminal (St. Thomas to St. John)
    • On-site covered parking garage.
    • Cost: $4 for the first hour; $20 daily maximum (5 to 24 hours).
    • Alternative: Nearby private lots (e.g., Sunshine Parking) are available but strictly enforce towing/booting.
  • Charlotte Amalie Terminal (St. Thomas Downtown)
    • Parking is extremely scarce.
    • Cost: Metered spaces are $0.25 per 30 minutes (2-hour limit).
    • No overnight parking allowed. Parking illegally or letting the meter expire risks a hefty $125 boot fee.
  • Cruz Bay & Car Barge Docks (St. John)
    • Ferry Terminal Lot: Free, but limited to a strict 2-hour maximum (no overnight parking).
    • Car Barge Lot (Enighed Pond): VIPA-operated gravel lot charging a flat $8 per day.
    • Overnight/Long-Term: Use private downtown lots (Slim Man's, Wharfside, or Lumberyard) ranging from $15–$25+ per day.

But first: If renting a vehicle on St. Thomas, confirm with your rental agency if they allow you to take the car over to St. John on the barge before you book your parking.

• Onboard Amenities: Shorter ferries have limited amenities. Longer trips to St. Croix may have restrooms and basic concessions.

 

Best Places to Visit by Ferry

Trunk Bay, St. John

One of the most photographed beaches in the Caribbean, Trunk Bay is famous for its clear water and underwater snorkeling trail. I've visited plenty of Caribbean beaches, and Trunk Bay still manages to exceed expectations. The water really is that clear.

Christiansted, St. Croix

Colorful architecture, waterfront dining, and a rich Danish colonial history make Christiansted one of the most charming towns in the Caribbean. It feels noticeably different from St. Thomas and St. John, which is part of what makes island hopping so rewarding.

Water Island

Just a short ferry ride from St. Thomas, Water Island offers a quieter experience with uncrowded beaches and a laid-back atmosphere. Whenever friends ask me where to escape the crowds for an afternoon, Water Island is usually one of my first recommendations.

Sample 5-Day U.S. Virgin Islands Ferry Itinerary

 

Where to Stay on St. John

If St. John is part of your itinerary, staying near Cruz Bay makes ferry travel easy while keeping beaches, restaurants, and island attractions within reach.

Villa Copa overlooks Rendezvous Bay and offers a private pool, spacious indoor and outdoor living areas, and panoramic ocean views. One thing I appreciate about the location is that you're only minutes from Cruz Bay while still feeling removed from the busier parts of town. After a day spent exploring beaches, hiking trails, or taking ferries between islands, it's the kind of place that's easy to come back to.

Final Thoughts

One of the things I enjoy most about traveling around the Virgin Islands is that getting there is part of the experience. The ferries aren't just a way to move between islands. They're part of what makes island hopping here memorable.

Whether you're spending a few days on St. John, exploring St. Croix, or building a longer U.S. Virgin Islands itinerary, taking the ferry lets you experience the islands the way many locals and repeat visitors do: one crossing at a time.