West End to Cruz Bay Ferry Schedule
West End → Cruz Bay · West End, Tortola → Cruz Bay, St. John · ~25 minutes
Route Overview
This page shows the current ferry schedule, operators, and fares for travel from West End to Cruz Bay. 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 crosses the USVI-BVI border, so travelers should bring a valid passport and be prepared for USVI customs and immigration on arrival.
St. John to Tortola (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 Tortola to St. John?
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 Tortola to St. John 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 West End to Cruz Bay ferry?
Yes. This route crosses the USVI-BVI border, so travelers should bring a valid passport and be prepared for USVI customs and immigration on arrival.
Which ferry operators run the West End to Cruz Bay 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 West End to Cruz Bay 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 West End to Cruz Bay 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 West End to Cruz Bay 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 St. John?
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 British Virgin Islands to the US Virgin Islands. A valid passport is required. US Customs will process passengers upon arrival in Cruz Bay.
Before departing West End, a $20 BVI departure tax per person applies.
Terminals, Crossing & Arrival
The ferry departs from the West End Ferry Terminal on the western tip of Tortola, near Soper's Hole Wharf and Marina. If you're coming from Road Town, the taxi ride to West End takes about 20 minutes; from Cane Garden Bay, roughly 15 minutes. Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to pay the $20 BVI departure tax and clear departure security at the terminal gate.
The crossing to Cruz Bay takes approximately 25 minutes — one of the shortest cross-border routes in the Virgin Islands, as West End and Cruz Bay face each other across a narrow stretch of water. Ferries have covered seating, and 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 roaming charges, as your device will pick up BVI cell towers for much of the trip.
You'll arrive at the main ferry dock (Loredon L. Boynes, Sr. Dock) in Cruz Bay, St. John. After docking, all passengers clear US Customs — have your passport ready. Cruz Bay is immediately walkable from the dock, with restaurants, shops, and grocery stores right in town. Taxis meet every arriving ferry for those heading to Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, or resorts elsewhere on the island. The Virgin Islands National Park Visitor Center is a short walk from the dock and worth a stop if you're planning any hiking or beach activities on St. John.
Quick facts
- Crossing time
- ~25 minutes
- Departure terminal
- West End, Tortola
- Arrival terminal
- Cruz Bay, St. John
- Passport
- Required — cross-border route
- Extra fees
-
$20 bvi departure$10 usvi port