If you are arriving to Tortola via St. Thomas, taking the ferry is a common route to reach your crewed yacht charter. Here’s our detailed guide to navigating the inter-island ferry system like a pro.
Getting to the Ferry Terminal
After collecting your baggage at the St. Thomas airport, you’ll find a taxi dispatcher outside. Tell them you’re headed to the Charlotte Amalie Ferry Dock. Here’s a money-saving tip: opt for a shared taxi instead of a private one. While a private taxi costs around $80, sharing with other passengers only costs $10 per person.
Journey Time
The ferry crossing itself takes approximately 50 minutes. However, be sure to budget extra time for immigration and customs upon arrival in Tortola. During busy periods (especially high season or when multiple ferries arrive simultaneously), the immigration and customs process can take up to an additional 50 minutes.
Ferry Schedules and Tickets
You can check the latest ferry schedules on the official BVI Ports Authority website at bviports.org/ferry. Ferry times can vary by season and company, so it’s always good to verify the current schedule before your trip. We always recommend buying your tickets in advance.Â
Remember that each piece of checked luggage requires an additional fee. You’re allowed one carry-on bag at no extra charge. If you’re traveling with charter provisions or specialized equipment, factor in these extra baggage costs.
Pre-Departure Tips
If you have extra time before your ferry departs, head upstairs to the Petite Pump Room. This hidden gem offers great views of seaplanes in the harbor
while you have a drink and a bite to eat (you can take beverages onto the ferry, but no glass bottles). A relaxing spot to wait for your departure.
Security and Waiting Area
After purchasing tickets, you’ll proceed through security into an outdoor waiting area. Remember to stay within the clearly marked red box area.
The ferry loads from the front right-hand side by the benches – a prime spot if you want first choice of seating
On the Ferry
Choose between air-conditioned indoor seating or outdoor areas. For the best views of passing islands and ports, select a seat on the left (port) side. Bathroom facilities are available onboard. Keep your travel documents easily accessible for arrival.
Remain seated during docking in Tortola. Luggage will be unloaded before passengers. When you disembark follow the correct immigration line:
Left line: Visitors and tourists
Right line: Residents and belongers
Customs and Immigration
Collect your luggage before proceeding to customs. Declare any purchases, especially alcohol or food and have receipts ready for duty calculations.
If you owe duty fees pay at the cashier’s window near the exit.Â
Final Transportation
You will find taxi drivers waiting outside. Let them know which marina you’re headed to, and they’ll get you there. Most marina are just a short ride from the ferry terminal in Road Town. Your crew can also organise one of their preferred taxi’s to come and meet you.Â
While this ferry route is one way to reach your crewed yacht in the BVI, it’s just one of several options. Getting to The BVIÂ
