What’s the Best Way to Get from the USVI to the BVI? Ferry vs Water Taxi

Getting to the BVI from the USVI: Ferry vs. Water Taxi

If you’re planning to travel from the USVI to the BVI, most people arrive first in the USVI (often via Cyril E. King Airport — St. Thomas, STT) and then continue by sea to BVI. From there, you can reach islands like Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and more — either by public ferry or by hiring a private water taxi.

Both options have their pros and cons. The best choice depends largely on your travel style, timing, budget, and comfort preferences. Below we break down what you need to know. Here you have some extra tips!

Water Taxi: Flexibility, Privacy & Convenience

A water taxi is a small boat (private or shared) that transports passengers directly between islands or ports — often with more flexibility than ferries. 

Why choose water taxi:

Flexibility & Custom schedule: Water taxis don’t run on fixed timetables — so you can arrange pick-up around your flight arrival or charter schedule. 

Direct, hassle-free transfers: Many water taxis will take you directly from USVI (e.g. St. Thomas) to your final destination in BVI — including charter yachts, resorts, villas, or remote islands — without extra transfers.

Faster & smoother arrival: Because the captain often handles customs and immigration formalities for you, you avoid waiting in long lines and delays. 

More comfort and privacy: Smaller boats mean fewer crowds, more personalized service, and possibly amenities like drinks — giving a more relaxed and VIP-style atmosphere.

Downsides:

Limited to boat-savvy travelers: Smaller boats can be more affected by waves — might not be ideal for those prone to seasickness.

Higher cost: Water taxis are significantly more expensive than public ferries, especially for solo travelers or small groups.

Limited luggage space: Depending on the boat, there may be restrictions on luggage size or quantity.

Advance coordination required: Water taxis usually need to be pre-booked and coordinated around flight times and customs availability.

Common Water Taxi Providers

Some well-known operators include:

Island Time Water Taxi
BVI Water Taxi
Chillout Charters
Sonic Charters / St. Thomas Water Taxi

(Availability and routes may vary by season and destination.)

Approximate Water Taxi Pricing

Private water taxi: from $750–$1,200+ USD per trip, depending on route, group size, and destination

Shared or small-group services: may start around $650–$900 USD per trip

Prices often do not include customs or port fees, which are charged separately

While water taxis are more expensive upfront, they often save time, reduce stress, and eliminate additional transfers — especially for groups or charter guests.

Ferry: Budget-Friendly and Established Route

What is a ferry?
A ferry is a larger boat operating on fixed schedules, connecting main ports between USVI and BVI. They are the traditional, public-transport option for tourists and locals alike

Why choose ferry:

Lower cost: Ferries are significantly cheaper than private water taxis.

Regular schedules: Ferries run multiple times per day along major routes (e.g., between St. Thomas/USVI and Tortola/BVI).

Reliable and communal: For standard travelers or those on a budget, ferries offer a stable, established way to cross between islands.

Downsides:

Less flexibility: Because of fixed departure times, you might need to wait or adjust your travel — especially if your flight arrives late or unexpectedly.

Possible waiting times: After arriving on a ferry, you’ll need to go through customs/immigration (which can take 20–35 minutes), then transfer via land taxi to your final destination (hotel, yacht, etc.).

Less private: Ferries tend to be more crowded, and you’ll share the ride with many other passengers.

So if you’re traveling on a budget, have flexible scheduling, and don’t mind standard public transport routines — ferry is likely your best bet.

Common Ferry Operators

Road Town Fast Ferry
Native Son Ferry
Smith’s Ferry
Aquatic Rentals Ferry Service

Approximate Ferry Pricing

USVI to BVI ferry: typically $50–$100 USD per person, one way

Additional port, departure, and customs fees may apply ($10–$20 per person)

Typical Route: Fly to USVI, Then Sea to BVI

For most travelers, the journey to the BVI follows these steps:

1- Fly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) in St. Thomas, USVI (often easier and cheaper than flying directly to BVI)

2- From the airport, take a land taxi to a ferry or water taxi terminal — commonly Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas. 

3- From there, cross by ferry or water taxi to BVI (e.g. destination port on Tortola).

4- Go through customs / immigration upon arrival in BVI. Many water taxis handle this on board for you.

5- From your BVI port — onward land taxi, or direct transfer to your charter yacht

Final Answer: Water Taxi or Ferry?

While ferries are undeniably the cheapest option, their limited schedules, waiting times, and additional transfers can add complexity to your journey.

Our recommendation:
For travelers who value comfort, flexibility, speed, and a seamless arrival — especially charter guests, families, or groups — a water taxi is usually the better choice. It simplifies logistics, reduces travel stress, and delivers you closer to your final destination with minimal delays.
Ferry: best if your priority is saving money and your schedule is flexible.
Water taxi: best if you want a smooth, efficient, and elevated travel experience.

Whether you arrive by ferry or water taxi, the journey from the USVI to the BVI is the first step into something truly special. It’s more than a transfer — it’s the beginning of your Caribbean escape. At Ritzy Yachts, we’re ready to welcome you with exceptional crews and a curated fleet of world-class yachts, making your arrival effortless and your experience unforgettable. All that’s left to do is take the leap and enjoy the journey!