How to Take the Car Ferry from St Thomas to St John

Planning Your First Trip to St John?
If you’re wondering how to get to St John, the answer is simple: take the ferry from St Thomas to St John. For first-time visitors, the process can feel confusing—What dock do I go to? How do I book tickets? What’s the car ferry cost?—but don’t worry. This step-by-step guide will walk you through everything you need to know so you can travel smoothly and enjoy the journey.

Why Choose the Car Ferry?
St John is mainly accessible by water to the general public, and while there are passenger ferries, the St Thomas car ferry (often called the car barge) is the most convenient way to bring your own vehicle. Having your car on St John means you can explore beaches, trails, and hidden gems at your own pace without relying on taxis or rentals.

The car ferry departs from the Red Hook ferry dock on the east end of St Thomas and arrives at Cruz Bay on St John. With multiple trips daily, it’s a reliable and scenic ride across the Caribbean Sea.

Step-by-Step Guide to Taking the Car Ferry

1. Book Your Ticket in Advance
The very first step in taking the ferry from St Thomas to St John is to book your ticket ahead of time. Buying your ticket early ensures you’ll have a confirmed space for your vehicle, especially during peak tourist seasons when ferries fill up quickly.

You can choose between:
 • One-Way Ticket – Ideal if you plan to stay on St John longer or are unsure when you’ll return.
 • Round-Trip Ticket – A convenient and often cost-saving option if you know your return schedule.

Booking online is simple, but if you run into any issues, we’re here to help! Contact Love City Car Ferries by phone at 340-779-4000, email us at [email protected], or use our Contact Us form on the website.

Book your car ferry ticket today to secure your spot and travel with peace of mind.

2. Check the Schedule Before You Travel
Once your ticket is booked, the next step is to confirm the St Thomas to St John car ferry schedule. Departure times vary seasonally, so be sure to check our schedule page or call ahead to confirm the latest St Thomas ferry hours.

3. Arrive at the Red Hook Ferry Dock
Head to the Red Hook ferry terminal on St Thomas. This is where all vehicle ferries to St John depart. Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for boarding.

4. Line Up and Prepare Your Vehicle
When you arrive, you’ll be directed into a staging area. Virgin Islands Port Authority staff will guide vehicles from the dock onto the vessel. Love City Car Ferries’ staff will be there to guide you after you board the vessel. Make sure you have your ticket or reservation ready and follow instructions carefully.

5. Enjoy the Ride
Once on board, you can either stay in your vehicle or step outside to take in the views. The crossing usually takes 20–30 minutes, and you’ll enjoy beautiful scenery—sometimes even spotting marine animals.

6. Arrive in Cruz Bay, St John
On arrival, vehicles disembark in reverse order - last on will be the first off and first on will be the last off of the vessel. From here, you’re free to drive directly into Cruz Bay or explore the island’s many attractions.

Additional Tips for First-Time Ferry Riders
 • Book in Advance – During peak tourist season, ferries fill up fast. Book your ticket early.
 • Know the Rules – Reservations are typically made on the hour, not half-past.
 • Pack What You Want – On our car ferry, you can leave your items in your vehicle to carry across on the trip. 
 • Consider Round Trip – Buying a round trip ferry ticket can save time and money.
 • Confirm Vessel – Make sure you’re on the right ferry vessel. Different companies depart from the Red Hook dock at assigned times throughout the day. Please confirm the vessel with a staff member and clear markings of the name of the vessel on the side of them.

Book Your Car Ferry Today
Ready to make the journey? The St John car ferry is the best way to bring your car and explore the island at your own pace.
Reserve your spot on the ferry from St Thomas to St John and enjoy a smooth, scenic ride with Love City Car Ferries.

Book your car and passenger ferry for St. Thomas to St. John!

If you have any questions, contact us at 340-779-4000, email [email protected], or use our Contact Us form for help.