Do I need a passport to visit Jost Van Dyke?

Yes, if you're coming from the USVI or anywhere outside the BVI. Jost Van Dyke is part of the British Virgin Islands, so a valid passport is required for entry. You must also complete the BVI Online ED Card at bviedcard.gov.vg before arrival.

How long is the ferry to Jost Van Dyke?

Ferry times to Jost Van Dyke are about 25 minutes from West End, Tortola, or about 50 minutes from Red Hook, St. Thomas.

What is there to do on Jost Van Dyke?

Jost Van Dyke is best known for its beach bars — Foxy's Tamarind Bar in Great Harbour and the Soggy Dollar Bar on White Bay. White Bay itself is a stunning beach for swimming and relaxing. Bubbly Pool, a natural rock formation on the east end, is worth the hike.

How much does the ferry to Jost Van Dyke cost?

Ferry fares to Jost Van Dyke vary by operator and route. One-way adult fares typically range from $15–75 depending on whether you depart from Tortola or St. Thomas. Check individual route pages on this site for current pricing from each departure point.

How to Get to Jost Van Dyke — Ferry Routes, Schedules &

Getting there

Ferry Terminals & Logistics

The primary ferry to Jost Van Dyke departs from the West End ferry terminal (Soper's Hole) on Tortola. New Horizon Ferry operates multiple daily round trips to Great Harbour, the island's main settlement. The crossing takes about 25 minutes. From St. Thomas, Inter Island Boat Services runs from Red Hook to Great Harbour (about 50 minutes), though this service operates on a more limited schedule.

If you're coming from St. Thomas, you can either take the direct Inter Island service from Red Hook or ferry to West End, Tortola, and connect to the New Horizon service. The direct route avoids clearing BVI customs twice but runs less frequently. When taking the Tortola connection, you'll clear customs at West End and then catch the next New Horizon departure — the terminal is the same, so no taxi is needed. A valid passport and BVI ED Card are required.

There is no dock large enough for the ferry at White Bay — all ferries land at Great Harbour. From Great Harbour, it's about a 15-minute walk over the hill to White Bay, or you can hire a taxi (small pickup trucks) to take you over.

BVI passport & entry requirements Island hopping guide

Ferry Routes to Jost Van Dyke

From	Crossing Time	Border
Red Hook St. Thomas	~50 min	Passport required	Schedule & Fares
Spanish Town Virgin Gorda	~60 min	Domestic	Schedule & Fares
West End Tortola	~25 min	Domestic	Schedule & Fares

Ferry Routes from Jost Van Dyke

To	Crossing Time	Border
Red Hook St. Thomas	~50 min	Passport required	Schedule & Fares
Spanish Town Virgin Gorda	~60 min	Domestic	Schedule & Fares
West End Tortola	~25 min	Domestic	Schedule & Fares

Getting to Jost Van Dyke by Air

There is no airport on Jost Van Dyke. The island is accessible only by ferry or private boat.

On the island

What to Expect on Jost Van Dyke

Jost Van Dyke is all about the beach bar scene and laid-back island vibes. Great Harbour has Foxy's Tamarind Bar, a legendary spot that's been drawing sailors and visitors since the 1960s. White Bay is one of the most beautiful beaches in the Caribbean — a long crescent of white sand lined with beach bars including the Soggy Dollar Bar (birthplace of the Painkiller cocktail), Ivan's Stress Free Bar, and Hendo's Hideout. For more on what makes White Bay special, see our White Bay guide.

On the east end, Foxy's Taboo is a popular restaurant with a more relaxed setting, and from there you can do the hike over to the Bubbly Pool — a natural rock formation where ocean waves push through gaps creating a jacuzzi effect. The hike has great views but it's a steep hill and can be strenuous and hot depending on the time of year.

There are a handful of villas and small hotels on the island, but Jost Van Dyke is a great spot for a day trip. Take the morning ferry from West End, spend the day at White Bay soaking up the beach bars or grab a bite in Great Harbour, and catch an afternoon ferry back. The island is also a favorite overnight anchorage for the charter yacht crowd.

At a glance

Ferry routes: 6
Crossing time: 25–60 min
Territory: BVI
Passport: Required

Tips for Visiting Jost Van Dyke

Bring cash — some bars and restaurants may not accept credit cards, and it's often more convenient to use cash for taxis.

Wear shoes you can walk in for the hill between Great Harbour and White Bay, or hire a taxi.

The last ferry back to Tortola leaves in the late afternoon — confirm the return schedule before you go so you don't get stranded.

Sunday is the busiest day on Jost Van Dyke. Weekdays are more relaxed.

For an off-the-beaten-path adventure, take a taxi to Foxy's Taboo on the east end and hike to the Bubbly Pool — great views but steep and hot, so bring water.

Common Questions About Getting to Jost Van Dyke

How do I get to Jost Van Dyke by ferry?: From Tortola, New Horizon Ferry runs daily service from West End to Great Harbour (about 25 minutes). From St. Thomas, Inter Island Boat Services operates from Red Hook (about 50 minutes). The Tortola route is the most frequent.
Do I need a passport to visit Jost Van Dyke?: Yes, if you're coming from the USVI or anywhere outside the BVI. Jost Van Dyke is part of the British Virgin Islands, so a valid passport is required for entry. You must also complete the BVI Online ED Card at bviedcard.gov.vg before arrival.
How long is the ferry to Jost Van Dyke?: Ferry times to Jost Van Dyke are about 25 minutes from West End, Tortola, or about 50 minutes from Red Hook, St. Thomas.
Is there an airport on Jost Van Dyke?: There is no airport on Jost Van Dyke. The island is accessible only by ferry or private boat.
What is there to do on Jost Van Dyke?: Jost Van Dyke is best known for its beach bars — Foxy's Tamarind Bar in Great Harbour and the Soggy Dollar Bar on White Bay. White Bay itself is a stunning beach for swimming and relaxing. Bubbly Pool, a natural rock formation on the east end, is worth the hike.
How much does the ferry to Jost Van Dyke cost?: Ferry fares to Jost Van Dyke vary by operator and route. One-way adult fares typically range from $15–75 depending on whether you depart from Tortola or St. Thomas. Check individual route pages on this site for current pricing from each departure point.

Entry Requirements

A valid passport is required for travel to the British Virgin Islands. You must also complete the BVI Online ED Card before arrival. Read our full BVI passport & entry requirements guide.