Planning Your First Trip to St. John?
Visitors frequently start their inquiry by asking about the optimal transportation method to reach St. John. Every visitor to St. John must start their journey by taking the ferry from St. Thomas because the island lacks an airport. The decision between taking the car ferry from St. Thomas to St. John or the passenger-only St. John ferries depends on your travel preferences, financial situation, and planned activities on the island.

Understanding the Two Ferry Options
Passenger Ferries
The daily passenger ferry service provides a practical solution for people who do not require vehicle transportation. The Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie terminals on St. Thomas serve as departure points for passenger ferries, which arrive at Cruz Bay on St. John.
Car Ferries (Car Barge)
The car barge from St. Thomas to St. John transports vehicles together with passengers. The Red Hook dock serves as the departure point for this service, which allows passengers a primary transportation method and for businesses that need to transfer supplies between the islands.

Comparing Car Ferry vs Passenger Ferry
1. Cost

• Traveling with minimal items requires the use of a passenger ferry, which costs less.
• The car on ferry cost requires a different calculation than the passenger fare. Two one-way tickets cost $100.
• The round-trip ticket costs $65 and remains valid for any future travel period.

You can use your return ticket at any point during the next several months after purchasing it. Update your existing reservation with your current departure time when you already have a booking.
2. Convenience

• For the passenger ferry, the 20-30 minute journey begins after you drop your bags and board the ferry. The service works well for visitors who plan to use taxis and tours since it operates frequently.
• The car ferry lets you bring your vehicle aboard, which enables you to exit at Cruz Bay without needing additional transportation. There is no additional charge for luggage once it is loaded in your vehicle.

3. Flexibility

• The frequent operation of passenger ferries provides convenience.
• Having your own vehicle, for car ferries, provides complete freedom of movement.
• You can stay at Trunk Bay until late, drive to Coral Bay, and set your exploration schedule when you have your car.

4. Travel Experience
Both ferry services provide stunning Caribbean views during the journey, while passengers might see marine animals in the water. The experience of driving onto the car ferry from St. Thomas to St. John, sailing across, and disembarking ready for adventure creates a lasting memory.
Remember: the first cars that enter the ferry will exit last because vehicles leave in reverse order.

Tips for Stress-Free Ferry Travel

• Check the Schedule – Verify the current St. John and St. Thomas car ferry schedule.
• Arrive Early – Travelers should reach the departure point 30 to 45 minutes prior to scheduled departure times, especially when bringing vehicles, because Virgin Islands Port Authority staff need time to stage the vehicles.
• Book Round-Trip Tickets – The purchase of round-trip ferry tickets between St. Thomas and St. John provides cost savings and allows you to choose any return date because the tickets never expire.
• Know the Boarding Process – The boarding process at the dock follows a system similar to airport security, where VIPA staff direct vehicles like TSA agents do. Our staff will direct you in parking your car onto the ferry after the Virgin Island Port Authority Staff guide the vehicles onboard our ship after the boarding process begins.
• Pack Smart – Organize your items in your vehicle so you maintain control over your packing and unpacking process.
• Travel at the Best Times – The best time to travel occurs during weekdays and morning hours because these periods bring smaller crowds and easier boarding.

Which Ferry Is Right for You?

• Select the passenger ferry when you travel without a car and plan to stay in Cruz Bay or have a day trip planned.
• Select the car ferry when you need vehicle independence to explore St. John freely.

Both ferry services provide simple and pleasant travel options for Virgin Islands island-hopping. Plan your trip now by booking your car ferry spot from St. Thomas to St. John for stress-free USVI travel.

Car Ferry Vs Passenger Ferry: Quick Comparison

Dear Valued Customers,

We hope this message finds you well. Due to the inclement weather conditions experienced today, Wednesday, September 24, 2025, Love City Car Ferries, Inc. has made the necessary adjustments to our schedule to ensure the safety of all our passengers and crew.

In light of the challenging weather, we have decided to conclude our service for the day earlier than usual. Our last trip of the day departing from St. John will be at 4:00 PM, and the final trip leaving St. Thomas will be at 5:00 PM. We kindly request that all passengers plan their journeys accordingly to accommodate these changes.

At Love City Car Ferries, your safety is our top priority. We urge everyone to exercise caution while traveling and to stay informed about the weather conditions. Please ensure you have the necessary supplies and information to navigate the islands safely during this period of inclement weather. Sign up for alerts for weather related schedule changes, here:
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We appreciate your understanding and cooperation as we work to provide a safe and reliable service. Should you have any questions or require further information, please do not hesitate to contact us at 340-779-4000 or via email at [email protected].

Thank you for your continued support, and we look forward to serving you again soon.

Sincerely,
Customer Relations Team
Love City Car Ferries, Inc.
📞 Phone: 340-779-4000
🌐 Website: https://www.lovecitycarferries.com/
✉️ Email: [email protected]