FerryConnect

US Virgin Islands → British Virgin Islands

St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) → Tortola (Road Town)

The ferry between the US and British Virgin Islands, from Charlotte Amalie on St Thomas to Road Town on Tortola. Immigration and customs apply at both ends, and ferries are the usual way into the BVI for visitors arriving on St Thomas.

⏱ 45m – 1h🚢 2 operators📅 Several departures daily

St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) to Tortola (Road Town) ferry at a glance

The ferry from St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) to Tortola (Road Town) takes 45m – 1h across the Caribbean Sea (Sir Francis Drake Channel), operated by Road Town Fast Ferry and Native Son. It is a foot-passenger service; vehicles are not carried. Typical frequency: several departures daily.

Crossing times and frequencies are typical figures and vary by season. Confirm the current timetable with the operator or booking partner before you travel. Route facts last reviewed 2026-09-24.

Maritime Crossing Route Map

Interactive sea passage between St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) and Tortola (Road Town)

📐 20 Nautical Miles
St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie)⇄Tortola (Road Town)
⏱ 45m – 1h · 📐 20 nm
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Operators on This Route

OperatorCrossing TimeVessels
Road Town Fast Ferry45m – 1hHigh-speed catamarans
Native Son45m – 1hPassenger ferries

Route Features

🚗

Vehicles

Foot passengers only

🚶

Foot Passengers

Walk-on passengers welcome

🐕

Pets

No pet facilities

📐

Distance

20 nautical miles

Getting There & Onward Transport

  • The Blyden terminal is on the Charlotte Amalie waterfront, about 10 minutes from St Thomas airport
  • Road Town has taxis and inter-island boats to Virgin Gorda and Jost Van Dyke

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Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a passport for the St Thomas to Tortola ferry?
Yes. Travelling between the US and British Virgin Islands crosses an international border, so all passengers need a valid passport, and BVI entry rules apply.
How long is the ferry from St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) to Tortola (Road Town)?
The crossing typically takes 45m – 1h. By operator: Road Town Fast Ferry about 45m – 1h; Native Son about 45m – 1h. Actual times vary by vessel, season and sea conditions, so check the timetable for your sailing.
Which ferry companies sail from St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) to Tortola (Road Town)?
Road Town Fast Ferry, Native Son operate this route. Compare sailing times and ticket types before booking, as they often differ between operators.
Can I take my car on the St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) to Tortola (Road Town) ferry?
No. This is a foot-passenger service and vehicles are not carried. Use parking near the departure pier or public transport to reach it.
Can I take the St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) to Tortola (Road Town) ferry as a foot passenger?
Yes. Foot passengers can travel on this route. Allow time to reach the passenger terminal and check the operator’s check-in closing time.
Are dogs and pets allowed on the St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) to Tortola (Road Town) ferry?
This route has no dedicated pet facilities. Assistance dogs are normally carried, but confirm with the operator before travelling.
How far is St Thomas (Charlotte Amalie) from Tortola (Road Town) by ferry?
The sea crossing is about 20 nautical miles (roughly 37 km).