How To Get To St John Usvi

What is the fastest way to get to St. John from the US mainland?

The fastest way to get to St. John from the US mainland is to fly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands, and then take a ferry to St. John. There is no airport on St. John itself, so flying to St. Thomas and then ferrying over is the only option.

While you can't fly directly *to* St. John, the journey is quite straightforward. Numerous major airlines offer frequent flights from various US cities to St. Thomas. Once you arrive at STT, you'll need to take a taxi or arrange transportation to either the Charlotte Amalie ferry dock or the Red Hook ferry dock. The Red Hook ferry generally has a more frequent schedule and a shorter ride (about 20 minutes) to Cruz Bay, St. John, compared to the Charlotte Amalie ferry (about 45 minutes). The total travel time, factoring in the flight, ground transportation on St. Thomas, and the ferry ride, will vary depending on flight schedules, ferry departure times, and traffic. However, this combined method remains significantly faster than any alternative, such as taking a cruise ship that includes St. John as a port of call, which involves a much longer overall trip.

What are the ferry options from St. Thomas to St. John?

There are two primary ferry options to travel from St. Thomas to St. John: the car ferry and the passenger ferry. The passenger ferry offers frequent service between Charlotte Amalie (downtown St. Thomas) and Cruz Bay, St. John, as well as from Red Hook, St. Thomas to Cruz Bay. The car ferry, also known as the vehicle ferry, operates solely between Red Hook, St. Thomas and Cruz Bay, St. John, and is necessary if you plan to bring a vehicle to St. John.

The passenger ferry is the most convenient and frequent option for those without a vehicle. The ferry from Charlotte Amalie to Cruz Bay is a scenic ride that takes approximately 45-60 minutes, while the ferry from Red Hook to Cruz Bay is shorter, taking about 20-30 minutes. The Red Hook route is generally preferred due to its shorter duration and more frequent departures. Multiple ferry companies operate on these routes, so schedules and fares can vary slightly. Be sure to check the current schedules online or at the ferry docks before your trip. If you intend to bring your car, jeep, or other vehicle to St. John, the car ferry is essential. This ferry departs from Red Hook on St. Thomas and arrives in Cruz Bay on St. John. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season, as space is limited. Keep in mind that car ferries are less frequent than passenger ferries, so careful planning is crucial. Be prepared for potential wait times, especially during busy travel periods.

Do I need a passport to travel to St. John from the US?

No, generally, United States citizens do not need a passport to travel to St. John, USVI. As St. John is a United States territory, it is considered domestic travel for US citizens.

While a passport is not required for US citizens, it's always a good idea to have one for any travel. Acceptable forms of identification for US citizens include a government-issued photo ID, such as a driver's license. However, carrying a passport offers more flexibility. For example, if you decide to take a day trip to the British Virgin Islands (BVI), which is very common, you will need a passport to re-enter the US. Furthermore, if for some reason your identification is lost or stolen, a passport can expedite the process of returning to the mainland United States.

Keep in mind that while US citizens don't typically need a passport, non-US citizens will need a valid passport and potentially a visa to enter St. John, USVI, depending on their country of origin. It is always best to verify entry requirements with the US Embassy or Consulate of your citizenship before travel. It's also a good idea to have a copy of your birth certificate with you as another form of identification.

How to get to St. John, USVI:

St. John does not have its own airport. Travelers fly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas. From the airport, you have two primary options:

Once you arrive in Cruz Bay, St. John, taxis are readily available to take you to your accommodation. Renting a car on St. John is also a popular option, but be aware that driving is on the left-hand side of the road.

What are the taxi options once I arrive on St. John?

Once you arrive on St. John, primarily at the Cruz Bay ferry dock, you'll find open-air safari-style taxis readily available. These taxis are the main mode of public transportation on the island, and they operate on a per-person rate based on destination zones rather than using meters. You can also arrange for private taxi services for more personalized transportation.

Safari taxis are shared rides that pick up and drop off passengers along a pre-determined route. They are ideal for traveling between Cruz Bay and popular destinations like Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Coral Bay. Upon arrival at the ferry dock, taxi dispatchers are usually on hand to direct you to the appropriate taxi based on your destination. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your trip.

For a more tailored experience, consider private taxi services. These can be pre-booked or arranged upon arrival, offering door-to-door service and the flexibility to customize your itinerary. Private taxis are a good option for larger groups, those with specific needs, or visitors who want to explore the island at their own pace. Keep in mind that private taxi fares are typically higher than shared safari taxis.