 Think of it Like FlyingIf you've ever flown anywhere, you already know the drill: you book your ticket, arrive at the airport, go through security, and then head to your gate. Our Virgin Islands ferry system works much the same way—just swap the airplane for a boat and TSA for the Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA). Here's what you need to know to make your journey smooth sailing.
The Dock Isn't Ours—Just Like the Airport Isn't the Airline's Here's the thing: Love City Car Ferries Inc doesn't actually run the docks. That falls under the Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA), a government agency. Think of it like this—when you fly, the airline doesn't own or control the airport. They don't run security. They don't manage the TSA lines. And if you're stuck in a long security line and miss your flight, you can't really blame the airline, right? Same concept here. Your Journey: Step by Step When you arrive at the dock, you'll first need to stop at the VIPA toll booth and pay your entry fee. Only after you've paid can you pass through the gate and actually access the dock area. This is your "security checkpoint" moment. Once you're through that gate, you're in the system. If you're inside before your scheduled departure time, your reservation is locked in and with good communication, you're good to go. But if you're still waiting in that VIPA line outside of the gates when the boat leaves—just like missing a flight because you're stuck at TSA—we can't hold the vessel for you, and that delay isn't on us. Pro Tips for a Smooth Trip
Missed Your Departure? If you do get caught in a VIPA delay and miss your reserved departure, don't panic. We'll still honor your booking on our next available trip—on a first-come, first-served basis. Just check in with us once you get through the gate. Quick Reminder The people you'll encounter at the toll booth and directing traffic on the dock are VIPA agents--Virgin Islands Government employees--not Love City Car Ferries, Inc's staff. They're there to keep everything organized and running safely, but they don't work for us. Please remember this as you gauge your interaction with us. So remember: arrive early, pay the toll, get through the gate, look for the black and white Capt Vic or Grand Vic, and enjoy the ride. Safe travels, Customer Relations Team Love City Car Ferries, Inc. Phone: 340-779-4000 Website: https://www.lovecitycarferries.com/ Email: [email protected]  Captain Victor William Sewer on his wedding day, Escorted by his father Lancelot Sewer Captain Victor William Sewer-known to all as Captain Vic, is a seafaring giant in the story of these islands. The Victor William Sewer Marine Facility, commonly known as the Creek, bears his name in recognition of a life spent building the maritime connections that bind our community together.
Act No. 7008 Act No 7008 of the Virgin Islands Legislature, honors his legacy documenting his many contributions to the maritime industry, such as:
Maritime Tradition Captain Victor Sewer inherited this maritime tradition from elders in the East End and Coral Bay communities. The name Sewer is derived from the fact that long ago, his ancestors sewed sails on seafaring ships. In fact, when we trace the genealogy of the families— the Sewers, the Varlacks, the Hedringtons and the Boynes for example— we find that this business is a service to the people and the ancestors as it upholds a traditional family vocation that has lasted for hundreds of years. The new generation of Sewers, owners of Love City Car Ferries Inc, did not inherit a business. What we did inherit is the practical maritime knowledge passed down through direct experience, apprenticeship, and family tradition. Captain Vic was instrumental in training a new generation of boat captains, including his grandson Llewellyn T. Sewer. A Heart for the People Thus, via this family vocation, we are grateful for the opportunity to continue providing the people of the Virgin Islands with a critical service. We understand that our service must be measured with "a heart for the people." In everything we do, we put your sustainability and our viability first, because without this symbiotic relationship, everyone suffers. For example, during lockdowns, in the aftermath of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, Love City Car Ferries Inc did not moor its vessels due to the lack of monetary compensation. Instead, we ran empty. Why? Because we knew the island of St. John still needed food, fuel, water, medicine, mail, etc. For us, our work is not just business, it is a service to our community. Pillsbury Sound is Essential Even though transportation across Pillsbury Sound is essential, we understand that you have a choice and we are grateful -truly grateful- for your continued support. We are happy to see you every time you drive aboard the M/V Grand Vic or the M/V Capt Vic. Thank you for the opportunity to serve. Thank you for trusting us with your journey. We do not take it lightly. Safe Travels, Customer Relations Team Love City Car Ferries, Inc. Phone: 340-779-4000 Website: https://www.lovecitycarferries.com/ Email: [email protected] Love City Car Ferries, Inc Community Commitment: A Heart for the PeopleAs March unfolds across the Virgin Islands, we're seeing that perfect blend of warm sunshine and gentle Caribbean breezes that signals the start of our beautiful spring season. At Love City Car Ferries Inc, we want to take a moment to connect with our community of travelers—both familiar faces and those planning their first island-hopping adventure. As a local company, we understand the rhythms of island life and the importance of reliable transportation for both residents and visitors. We're not just a service provider; we're your neighbors, and we're committed to keeping our islands connected while maintaining the highest standards of safety and customer service. This commitment comes from our core belief in having "A Heart for the People"—a principle that guides everything we do, from ensuring our vessels are safe and well-maintained to treating every passenger with the warmth and respect they deserve. This spring, as you plan your travels or make your regular trips between islands, know that Love City Car Ferries Inc is here to serve you. We look forward to being part of your journey and continuing to provide the reliable transportation our community depends on. Safe travels, and welcome to spring in paradise! Sincerely, Customer Relations Team Love City Car Ferries, Inc. Phone: 340-779-4000 Website: https://www.lovecitycarferries.com/ Email: [email protected]  The M/V Grand Vic is Off of the Dry-DockGood News! The M/V Grand Vic has returned to its homeport in Cruz Bay, St. John, Virgin Islands from its biannual hull inspection by the United States Coast Guard. We are awaiting our final inspection. As soon as we are ready, you will hear it here first. Have a wonderful remainder of the week.
PS. M/V Capt Vic is operating on the top of the hour. See the prior blog post for that schedule.  We at Love City Car Ferries, Inc would like to take the time to wish everyone a wonderful Labor Day weekend. You work hard and you deserve a day of rest. If you decide to head to St. John to the beach or head to St. Thomas for the sales, you can join us on the M/V Grand Vic. All cars and small trucks will be discounted to $40 round trip on Labor Day 2021. God bless! *Discount does not apply to charge customers, reservations nor to larger vehicles.  |