How do I get to Virgin Gorda by ferry?

The fastest way to reach Virgin Gorda is the Speedy's ferry from Trellis Bay, Beef Island — just 20 minutes and walking distance from BVI's main airport. Ferries also run from Road Town, Tortola (about 30 minutes) and from Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas (about 90 minutes, Saturdays only).

Do I need a passport to visit Virgin Gorda?

Yes, if you're coming from the USVI or anywhere outside the BVI. Virgin Gorda 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 Virgin Gorda?

Ferry times to Virgin Gorda range from 20 minutes (from Beef Island) to 30 minutes (from Road Town) to 90 minutes (from St. Thomas on the Saturday-only route).

What is there to do on Virgin Gorda?

Virgin Gorda's top attraction is The Baths National Park — giant granite boulders forming sea caves and tidal pools. Spring Bay and Devil's Bay have great snorkeling. The Copper Mine ruins offer a historical walk, and Leverick Bay has a beach bar and marina.

How much does the ferry to Virgin Gorda cost?

Ferry fares to Virgin Gorda vary by operator and route. One-way adult fares typically range from $15–65 depending on whether you're coming from Beef Island, Road Town, or St. Thomas. Check individual route pages on this site for current pricing from each departure point.

How to Get to Virgin Gorda — Ferry Routes, Schedules &

Getting there

Ferry Terminals & Logistics

Virgin Gorda's ferry dock is at Spanish Town (also called The Valley), the island's main settlement on the southwestern coast. Speedy's operates the most frequent service, running multiple daily trips from both Road Town, Tortola, and Trellis Bay, Beef Island. The Beef Island route is especially convenient if you're flying into Terrance B. Lettsome Airport (EIS) — the Trellis Bay dock is a short walk from the terminal.

If you're coming from St. Thomas, you have two options: take a ferry to Tortola and connect to a Virgin Gorda ferry, or catch the Saturday-only direct service from Charlotte Amalie (operated by Road Town Fast Ferry, about 90 minutes). The connection through Tortola is available daily but requires clearing BVI customs at Road Town or West End before taking a second ferry. A valid passport and completed BVI ED Card are required for entry.

Taxis meet arriving ferries at Spanish Town dock. Fares to The Baths run about $5–7 per person in a shared taxi. For the North Sound resorts (Bitter End, Oil Nut Bay), you'll need a taxi to Gun Creek followed by a short boat shuttle — the resorts arrange this.

BVI passport & entry requirements Island hopping guide

Ferry Routes to Virgin Gorda

From	Crossing Time	Border
Beef Island Tortola	~20 min	Domestic	Schedule & Fares
Charlotte Amalie St. Thomas	~90 min	Passport required	Schedule & Fares
Great Harbour Jost Van Dyke	~60 min	Domestic	Schedule & Fares
Road Town Tortola	~30 min	Domestic	Schedule & Fares

Ferry Routes from Virgin Gorda

To	Crossing Time	Border
Beef Island Tortola	~20 min	Domestic	Schedule & Fares
Charlotte Amalie St. Thomas	~90 min	Passport required	Schedule & Fares
Great Harbour Jost Van Dyke	~60 min	Domestic	Schedule & Fares
Road Town Tortola	~30 min	Domestic	Schedule & Fares

Getting to Virgin Gorda by Air

Virgin Gorda has a small airport (VIJ) that receives limited charter and regional flights. Most visitors arrive by ferry from Tortola or Beef Island.

On the island

What to Expect on Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda has a relaxed, unhurried atmosphere quite different from Tortola's busier pace. The island's star attraction is The Baths National Park at the southern tip, where massive granite boulders form sea-level caves and tidal pools — it's one of the most photographed spots in the Caribbean. Check out the latest on visiting The Baths for current rules and tips. Spring Bay nearby offers excellent snorkeling with fewer crowds, and Devil's Bay is part of the one-way Baths trail loop. Savannah Bay is another popular beach — a long, quiet stretch of sand that rarely gets crowded.

For dining, many consider Coco Maya the best restaurant in the BVI — it's on the North Sound side and worth the trip. Hog Heaven, a barbecue spot up in the hills, serves great food with incredible panoramic views of the North Sound and surrounding islands. The North Sound area is home to upscale resorts and some of the best sailing waters in the BVI. Leverick Bay has a marina, restaurant, and small beach. The Copper Mine ruins near Spanish Town are a historical site worth a quick visit. The island is a popular day trip destination and also a favorite stop for sailors exploring the BVI by yacht.

At a glance

Ferry routes: 8
Crossing time: 20–90 min
Territory: BVI
Passport: Required

Tips for Visiting Virgin Gorda

Book the Beef Island ferry if you're flying into the BVI — it's the fastest connection and avoids a taxi ride across Tortola.

The Baths get crowded midday when cruise ship excursions arrive from Tortola. Go early morning or late afternoon for a better experience.

Bring water shoes for walking through The Baths — the rocks can be slippery.

There are limited dining options outside Spanish Town. Plan meals or bring snacks if you're exploring the north end.

The Saturday-only direct ferry from St. Thomas sells out — book ahead if that's your plan.

Common Questions About Getting to Virgin Gorda

How do I get to Virgin Gorda by ferry?: The fastest way to reach Virgin Gorda is the Speedy's ferry from Trellis Bay, Beef Island — just 20 minutes and walking distance from BVI's main airport. Ferries also run from Road Town, Tortola (about 30 minutes) and from Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas (about 90 minutes, Saturdays only).
Do I need a passport to visit Virgin Gorda?: Yes, if you're coming from the USVI or anywhere outside the BVI. Virgin Gorda 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 Virgin Gorda?: Ferry times to Virgin Gorda range from 20 minutes (from Beef Island) to 30 minutes (from Road Town) to 90 minutes (from St. Thomas on the Saturday-only route).
Is there an airport on Virgin Gorda?: Virgin Gorda has a small airport (VIJ) that receives limited charter and regional flights. Most visitors arrive by ferry from Tortola or Beef Island.
What is there to do on Virgin Gorda?: Virgin Gorda's top attraction is The Baths National Park — giant granite boulders forming sea caves and tidal pools. Spring Bay and Devil's Bay have great snorkeling. The Copper Mine ruins offer a historical walk, and Leverick Bay has a beach bar and marina.
How much does the ferry to Virgin Gorda cost?: Ferry fares to Virgin Gorda vary by operator and route. One-way adult fares typically range from $15–65 depending on whether you're coming from Beef Island, Road Town, 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.