Your Guide to Virgin Island Ferries
When you take sailing courses with Go Sail VI, we offer itineraries in both the US Virgin Islands and the British Virgin Islands. If you plan to visit the BVI, the easiest way to get there is by taking a ferry—once you get to Tortola, you can meet your sailing course instructor at Nanny Cay Marina.
Knowing the ferry schedule, prices, and information about how and when to book your ticket will make island hopping in the Virgin Islands a breeze. Here’s everything you need to know about Virgin Island ferries.
Are There Ferries Between the Virgin Islands?
Yes, there are ferries between several of the Virgin Islands, including some that connect the USVI to the BVI near the marina where you’ll sail from.
Most travelers taking BVI sailing courses fly into St Thomas, USVI (STT). Once they land, they can take a ferry to Tortola to meet their instructor or charter manager.
The ferries are fast and reliable, taking under an hour! We suggest taking the Road Town Fast Ferry, and you can view their schedule here.
Why Take a Ferry in the Virgin Islands?
Taking a ferry is faster than flying between the islands, and you won’t need to make another trip through airport security (that’s already a win). It is also generally cheaper, especially if you are sailing with a group.
Sailing enthusiasts will also appreciate any extra time they get on the water. Bring your camera, the leisurely ride is a great opportunity to see dolphins and even whales when they are migrating from December through March.
How Much is the Ferry From St Thomas to the British Virgin Islands?
Prices are usually about $60 one way, but there are discounted tickets for seniors and children. Adults over 62 years will cost $5, while children are much cheaper. You can save considerable money if you are traveling with a multigenerational family. Alternatively, you can fly or take a water taxi, but both of these will cost more than a ferry.
USVI to BVI Ferry Schedules
If you are taking sailing courses with Go Sail VI, you will want to make sure you arrive on time for day 1 of your sailing itinerary. Be sure to select a ticket time that will allow enough spare time to meet your instructor or charter check out assistant before you set sail.
Times vary, depending on the ferry service company. This is the schedule for the Road Town Fast Ferry.
Private Water Taxis in the Virgin Islands
A popular option if you are traveling with a group is a private water taxi. It can cost considerably more than a ferry, but it is the fastest mode of transportation and can be a good option if the timing between your flight and sailing course doesn’t work out with the ferry schedule.
Private water taxis can vary in price and do fluctuate with supply and demand. Some companies offer discounts if you book a round-trip ticket.
Immigration Forms for USVI to BVI Travel
If you plan to travel from the US Virgin Islands to the British Virgin Islands (or vice versa), you will need to have a passport. You also need to fill out immigration forms at least 36 hours before you visit the BVI.
You can find the form here.
Weather Cancellations
While it doesn’t happen often, ferry companies may cancel a scheduled departure with extreme weather in the forecast. We never sail if hurricanes are on the horizon (or actively occurring), so you can reschedule both the ferry ticket (with the company you booked with) and your sailing courses or bareboat charter in the event of a tropical storm. Go Sail VI allows you to reschedule within three months of your original sailing date.