St. Thomas to Tortola Ferry Schedule
St. Thomas → Tortola · Multiple terminals and operators · ~30 minutes
Aquatic Rentals / Sea Express — service suspended
Aquatic Rentals / Sea Express has temporarily suspended all ferry service until further notice (announced June 4, 2026). Their normal departures are paused. Please check their website or social media for updates before planning travel.
Route Overview
This page shows the current ferry schedule, operators, and fares for travel from St. Thomas to Tortola. It combines the active terminal pairs on this island-to-island route, so use the route sections below to confirm the exact departure and arrival terminals for each operator. The crossing typically takes about 30 minutes, though trip time can vary slightly by operator, sea conditions, and the exact departure and arrival terminals. Yes. This route arrives in the British Virgin Islands, so travelers should bring a valid passport and complete any required BVI arrival forms before departure.
West End to Red Hook (return schedule)
Routes on this page
Cross-border route. Passport required. BVI travelers must complete an online embarkation card up to 72 hours before arrival.
Charlotte Amalie → Road Town
Smith's Road Town Fast| Departure | Operator | |
|---|---|---|
| 9:00 AM | Smith's Ferry | Visit site |
| 1:50 PM | Road Town Fast Ferry | Visit site |
| 4:00 PM | Smith's Ferry | Visit site |
| 5:30 PM | Road Town Fast Ferry | Visit site |
Red Hook → Road Town
Road Town Fast| Departure | Operator | |
|---|---|---|
| 5:45 PM | Road Town Fast Ferry | Visit site |
Red Hook → West End
Road Town Fast| Departure | Operator | |
|---|---|---|
| 8:30 AM | Road Town Fast Ferry | Visit site |
| 1:45 PM | Road Town Fast Ferry | Visit site |
| 5:45 PM | Road Town Fast Ferry | Visit site |
Common Questions
How long is the ferry from St. Thomas to Tortola?
The crossing typically takes about 30 minutes, though trip time can vary slightly by operator, sea conditions, and the exact departure and arrival terminals.
How much does the ferry from St. Thomas to Tortola cost?
Adult one-way fares currently range from $25 to $65, with round-trip fares from $45 to $95. Always confirm taxes, customs fees, and operator-specific pricing before travel.
Do you need a passport for the St. Thomas to Tortola ferry?
Yes. This route arrives in the British Virgin Islands, so travelers should bring a valid passport and complete any required BVI arrival forms before departure.
Which ferry operators run the St. Thomas to Tortola route?
The current operators on this route are Native Son Ferry, Road Town Fast Ferry, and Smith's Ferry. Operators can vary by date, so check the schedule table and upcoming departure notes on this page before booking.
Can I buy St. Thomas to Tortola ferry tickets online?
Some operators on this route offer online booking through their websites. Check each operator's website or call ahead to confirm availability. You can also purchase tickets at the terminal before departure.
How much luggage can I bring on the ferry?
Luggage policies vary by operator. Most ferries allow at least one carry-on bag, with fees for additional or oversized luggage. Check your operator's baggage policy before traveling — fees typically range from $4 to $25 per bag depending on the operator and bag size.
What documents do I need for the St. Thomas to Tortola ferry?
You need a valid passport for this cross-border route between the USVI and BVI. The BVI recommends your passport be valid for at least six months beyond your travel date. You must also complete the BVI Online ED Card at bviedcard.gov.vg before traveling.
Is the St. Thomas to Tortola ferry crossing rough?
The crossing can be choppy, especially during winter trade wind season (December through April) when northerly swells build. If you're prone to seasickness, sit toward the center of the boat on the lower deck. Summer months tend to have calmer seas.
What fees are there besides the ferry ticket?
Cross-border ferry travel involves additional fees beyond the ticket price. Departing the USVI for BVI, expect a $10 port/development fee. When departing the BVI, a $20 per person departure tax applies. These are typically paid at the terminal.
Will my cell phone work on the ferry to Tortola?
Your US cell phone will work in the USVI but may pick up BVI towers during the crossing, triggering international roaming charges. Put your phone in airplane mode once underway to avoid unexpected fees. The BVI uses separate telecom providers (Flow and Digicel) from US networks.
How do I get from the airport to the Red Hook ferry terminal?
Cyril E. King Airport (STT) is about 25 minutes from Red Hook by taxi. Take a taxi from the airport arrivals area directly to the UVF Marine Terminal at Red Hook.
Weekly Schedule — Charlotte Amalie → Road Town
Weekly Schedule — Red Hook → Road Town
Weekly Schedule — Red Hook → West End
Fares
Charlotte Amalie → Road Town
Native Son Ferry
| Passenger | One Way | Round Trip |
|---|---|---|
| adult | $25 | $45 |
| child (6-12) | $19 | $35 |
| infant (3-5) | $10 | $20 |
Smith's Ferry
| Passenger | One Way | Round Trip |
|---|---|---|
| adult | $28 | $49 |
| child (3-11) | $23 | $40 |
| infant (8mo-2yr) | $11 | $20 |
Road Town Fast Ferry
| Passenger | One Way | Round Trip |
|---|---|---|
| adult | $30 | $55 |
| child (3-11) | $20 | $30 |
Baggage Fees
Additional Fees
- BVI Environmental Levy: $10 per person (Charged on arrival to BVI.)
Traveler's Guide
What to know before you sail
Customs & Immigration
This route crosses from the US Virgin Islands to the British Virgin Islands. A valid passport is required for all passengers.
Complete the BVI Online ED Card at bviedcard.gov.vg before your trip. A $10 USVI port/development fee applies at departure. Upon arrival at West End, all passengers clear BVI Immigration and Customs. When departing the BVI, a $20 per person departure tax applies.
Terminals, Crossing & Arrival
The ferry departs from the UVF Marine Terminal at Red Hook. For BVI-bound ferries, arrive at least 45 minutes before departure. The terminal has a VIPA parking garage, but if you're leaving a vehicle for an extended trip, consider taking a taxi instead — metered parking is limited.
The crossing to West End takes approximately 30 minutes — one of the shorter BVI crossings from St. Thomas. Ferries have enclosed cabins with outdoor seating options. The passage can be rough in winter months when trade winds pick up.
West End is at the western tip of Tortola. The terminal has a full customs and immigration facility. Taxis are available — the West End Taxi Association can be reached at (284) 495-4934. Soper's Hole Wharf and Marina is nearby with shops and restaurants. If you're heading to Cane Garden Bay or Road Town, expect a 15–25 minute taxi ride.
Quick facts
- Crossing time
- ~30 minutes
- Departure terminal
- Red Hook, St. Thomas
- Arrival terminal
- West End, Tortola
- Passport
- Required — cross-border route
- Extra fees
-
$10 bvi environmental levy
- Schedule verified
- April 2026