Cruz Bay to West End Ferry Schedule
Cruz Bay → West End · Cruz Bay, St. John → West End, Tortola · ~25 minutes
Route Overview
This page shows the current ferry schedule, operators, and fares for travel from Cruz Bay to West End. Use it to compare departure times across operators, check the weekly pattern for this route, and review available fares before you book. The crossing typically takes about 25 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.
Tortola to St. John (return schedule)
Cross-border route. Passport required. BVI travelers must complete an online embarkation card up to 72 hours before arrival.
No scheduled departures on Wednesday, May 13 for this route.
Common Questions
How long is the ferry from St. John to Tortola?
The crossing typically takes about 25 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. John to Tortola cost?
Adult fares vary by operator and route. Check the fares section on this page for the current published prices.
Do you need a passport for the Cruz Bay to West End 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 Cruz Bay to West End route?
The current operators on this route are ferry operators. Operators can vary by date, so check the schedule table and upcoming departure notes on this page before booking.
Can I buy Cruz Bay to West End 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 Cruz Bay to West End 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 Cruz Bay to West End 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.
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.
Complete the BVI Online ED Card at bviedcard.gov.vg before your trip. Upon arrival at West End, Tortola, all passengers clear BVI Immigration and Customs. A $20 per person departure tax applies when leaving the BVI.
Terminals, Crossing & Arrival
The ferry departs from Cruz Bay, St. John, and arrives at West End, Tortola. The crossing takes approximately 25 minutes — it's one of the shortest cross-border routes in the Virgin Islands, as Cruz Bay and West End face each other across the Pillsbury Sound.
Cruz Bay's ferry dock (Loredon L. Boynes, Sr. Dock) is right in town — restaurants, shops, and the National Park Visitor Center are all within walking distance. If you're coming from beaches elsewhere on St. John, taxis run to Cruz Bay regularly. Allow about 15 minutes from Trunk Bay or Cinnamon Bay. Arrive at the dock at least 30 minutes before departure for check-in and document verification.
Make sure to complete the BVI Online ED Card at bviedcard.gov.vg before arriving at the terminal — Wi-Fi at the dock is unreliable, so submit it in advance. A $10 USVI port/development fee may apply at departure.
The passage is generally calmer than the longer open-water crossings to St. Thomas. Switch your phone to airplane mode during the crossing to avoid BVI roaming charges.
West End has a full customs and immigration facility. After clearing BVI Immigration, taxis are available at the terminal. A ride to Road Town takes about 20 minutes; Cane Garden Bay is about 15 minutes. Soper's Hole Wharf and Marina is right next to the terminal, with shops and restaurants if you're waiting for onward transport.
Quick facts
- Crossing time
- ~25 minutes
- Departure terminal
- Cruz Bay, St. John
- Arrival terminal
- West End, Tortola
- Passport
- Required — cross-border route
- Extra fees
-
$10 bvi environmental levy