US Virgin Islands Ferry routes
Ferry services in the US Virgin Islands (USVI) connect the main islands of St. Thomas, St. John, and Water Island with frequent and reliable routes. There are also connections to St. Croix and international ferries to the British Virgin Islands (BSVI), including Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and Jost Van Dyke. Most routes are passenger-only and require ID's.
For international routes to the British Virgin Islands, allow extra time for check-in and customs procedures. A valid passport and travel documents are required for all passengers.
US Virgin Islands ferry routes map
US Virgin Islands Crossings
Ferries between Saint Thomas and Saint John
Saint Thomas is the commercial and logistical hub, with an international airport, shops, and busy harbors. In contrast, Saint John is known for its tranquility, unspoiled nature, and the Virgin Islands National Park, which covers about two-thirds of the island. Frequent ferry services connect the two islands, making even day trips easy and convenient.
Ferries to Water Island
Water Island is the smallest inhabited island of the US Virgin Islands and is known for its quiet, unspoiled charm. Visitors mainly come for a relaxing day trip by ferry or organized tour, heading to idyllic beaches like Honeymoon Beach.
Ferries to Saint Croix
St. Croix is the largest of the US Virgin Islands. While most visitors arrive by plane, there is also a ferry service using a unique type of boat, something you can already spot in the logo of the QE IV Ferry!
Crossings between USVI 🇻🇮 and BVI 🇻🇬
As mentioned earlier on the page, there are strict border controls between the USVI and BVI. Be sure to check with the ferry operator what time check-in closes and which documents you’ll need to bring.
Tortola
Several ferries connect the US Virgin Islands to Tortola, the largest of the British Virgin Islands. Most routes depart from St. Thomas or St. John and arrive at Road Town or West End in Tortola. Travel times typically range from 45 minutes to just over an hour, depending on the route and sea conditions.
Jost van Dyke
From the US Virgin Islands, Jost Van Dyke can be reached from both Saint Thomas and Saint John, thanks to a ferry that makes a stop in Cruz Bay.
Virgin Gorda
Ferries from the US Virgin Islands to Virgin Gorda are less frequent than those to Tortola but still available, especially on certain days of the week. Most services involve a stopover or transfer in Tortola, where you switch to a connecting ferry. The journey can take between 1.5 to 2.5 hours in total.
Anegada
Inter Island Boat Services offers a combined ferry route that departs from Red Hook (St. Thomas), stops in Cruz Bay (St. John), and then continues to Anegada. This route is available as a day trip with both outbound and return options.
Things to keep in mind
Keep in mind that ferry schedules can change due to weather conditions or seasonal demand. It's always a good idea to book tickets in advance, arrive early for check-in, and reconfirm departure times the day before your trip. Some ferries may also have luggage restrictions or onboard amenities to consider, so check the details with the operator ahead of time to ensure a smooth journey. Additionally, there are often extra taxes or fees not included in the ticket prices, which are usually listed on the ferry operators’ websites.
