How To Get To St John

Dreaming of turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and lush tropical landscapes? St. John, the smallest of the US Virgin Islands, offers just that and more. But before you can sink your toes into its white sand, you need to figure out how to get there. Unlike its larger sisters, St. Thomas and St. Croix, St. John doesn't have its own airport, making the journey a little more intricate. Don't let that deter you, though! The unique travel experience is well worth the reward: an unspoiled paradise unlike any other.

Navigating the routes to this idyllic island can seem daunting at first glance. Understanding the ferry schedules, transfer options, and various transportation methods is crucial for a smooth and stress-free arrival. Planning your trip with accurate information will not only save you time and money but also ensure you begin your St. John vacation relaxed and ready to embrace the island's laid-back vibe. Knowing the ins and outs of getting to St. John is the first step towards an unforgettable getaway.

What are the best ways to get to St. John from St. Thomas, and what should I know about ferry schedules, luggage, and transportation on the island?

What's the fastest way to get to St. John?

The fastest way to get to St. John is to fly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas and then take a taxi to either the Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie ferry dock, followed by a ferry to Cruz Bay, St. John.

While St. John does not have its own airport capable of handling commercial flights, Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on the neighboring island of St. Thomas is well-connected to major cities in the US and other international locations. Upon arrival at STT, taxis are readily available to transport you to one of the two ferry docks. The Red Hook ferry offers more frequent departures and a shorter ferry ride (approximately 20 minutes) to Cruz Bay, St. John. The Charlotte Amalie ferry is less frequent and the journey takes about 45-60 minutes. However, the Charlotte Amalie ferry dock is closer to the airport, sometimes resulting in a comparable overall travel time depending on taxi availability and traffic. Consider the ferry schedules and taxi availability when making your decision. If you prioritize minimizing your time on the water, Red Hook is the better option. However, if you find a shorter wait for a taxi to Charlotte Amalie and the ferry departure times align favorably, it could potentially be just as fast. Booking a private transfer from the airport to either ferry dock can also save time, especially during peak travel season.

How much does it cost to get to St. John, including ferry and transportation?

The cost to get to St. John varies significantly depending on your origin, mode of transport, and time of year, but you should budget at least $50-$200 per person for the round trip ferry and ground transportation. This estimate includes the ferry from St. Thomas and local transportation on St. John. This can increase with airport transfers on St. Thomas, taxis, rental cars, and additional activities.

Several factors influence the total cost. First, you'll likely fly into Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas. From the airport, you'll need ground transportation to either the Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie ferry terminals. Taxi fares from the airport to Red Hook are approximately $15-$20 per person, while a taxi to Charlotte Amalie is slightly less. Public transportation, such as the VITRAN bus, is a much cheaper option (a few dollars), but less convenient and time-consuming. The Red Hook ferry is generally preferred for its more frequent departures and shorter ride, costing around $8.15 per adult one way, while the Charlotte Amalie ferry costs about $12 per adult one way. Once on St. John, you'll need to consider transportation to your accommodations and around the island. Taxis are readily available but can be expensive, with fares typically ranging from $10-$20+ per person depending on the distance. Renting a jeep is a popular option for exploring the island, with daily rates varying greatly, typically from $80 to $150+ depending on the season and availability. Remember to factor in gas costs. A cheaper option for shorter distances are the open-air safari buses. Finally, consider that prices tend to surge during peak season (winter months and holidays).

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

There are two primary ferry routes from St. Thomas to St. John: the Red Hook ferry and the Charlotte Amalie ferry. The Red Hook ferry is the more frequent and shorter option, running approximately every 30-60 minutes and taking about 20 minutes to reach Cruz Bay, St. John. The Charlotte Amalie ferry is less frequent, with fewer daily departures, and the ride takes approximately 45-60 minutes to Cruz Bay.

The Red Hook ferry is generally preferred by most travelers due to its convenience and shorter travel time. It departs from the Red Hook ferry terminal on the eastern end of St. Thomas, which is about a 30-45 minute taxi or safari ride from the airport. While the Red Hook option requires a longer taxi ride from the airport compared to Charlotte Amalie, the frequent departures and quick journey to St. John usually make it worthwhile. The Charlotte Amalie ferry departs from the downtown Charlotte Amalie waterfront, closer to the airport. This option might be suitable if you're already in Charlotte Amalie or prefer a slightly longer, more scenic ride. However, with significantly fewer daily departures, planning your travel around the Charlotte Amalie ferry schedule is essential. Be sure to check the ferry schedules in advance, as they can vary depending on the day and season, and arrive early to secure your spot, especially during peak travel times.

Do I need a passport to travel to St. John?

Generally, yes, you will need a passport to travel to St. John. While St. John is a U.S. Virgin Island, and therefore a U.S. territory, it does not have its own airport. You must fly into St. Thomas (airport code: STT) and then take a ferry to St. John.

Because you are landing in St. Thomas, you are technically entering the U.S. Virgin Islands from the mainland US. For US citizens, a passport is generally *not* required for entry to the USVI *if arriving directly from the United States*, however you may use another acceptable form of identification, such as a government-issued photo ID and birth certificate. However, it is *highly recommended* to have a valid U.S. passport for several reasons. First, if there are any unforeseen travel disruptions (medical emergency requiring air transport to another island, connecting flight through a non-US territory, etc.), a passport will be essential. Second, some activities, like day trips to the British Virgin Islands (which are very popular), require a passport. Finally, having a passport simply streamlines the entry process upon arrival and ensures a smoother travel experience.

For non-US citizens, a valid passport is required to enter the U.S. Virgin Islands, along with any necessary visas. Ensure your passport is valid for the duration of your stay and that you have the correct visa documentation for entry into the United States. It is always best to double-check the specific entry requirements based on your citizenship well in advance of your trip with the U.S. embassy or consulate in your country.

While not directly about the passport, here is information about getting to St. John after flying into St. Thomas:

How do I get around St. John without renting a car?

Getting around St. John without a car is definitely possible, primarily relying on taxis, the VITRAN public bus system, and the ferry between Cruz Bay and other islands or St. Thomas. Each option offers varying degrees of flexibility and cost, but careful planning can allow you to experience the island's beauty even without your own vehicle.

Taxis are readily available in Cruz Bay and at popular destinations like Trunk Bay, but relying solely on them can become expensive, especially for frequent trips or exploring more remote areas. Taxi fares are typically per person and follow established rates based on destination, so always confirm the price before starting your journey. Group taxi tours are also a popular option for a guided experience of the island's highlights, offering a convenient way to see multiple locations in a single outing. The VITRAN bus is a more budget-friendly option, offering service along the main routes between Cruz Bay and Coral Bay. While the bus schedule can be infrequent, particularly outside of peak season, it's a viable way to reach popular beaches and hiking trails. Consider the travel time and potential wait times when planning your itinerary. Hiking between some destinations is also an option for the physically fit, although it's best to stick to well-marked trails and be mindful of the heat. Finally, don’t forget about water transport. The ferry to St. Thomas and other nearby islands is a great way to explore beyond St. John for a day trip. Also, some resorts and villas in more secluded areas may offer shuttle services to Cruz Bay, which could be a factor in your accommodation choice.

Is there public transportation available on St. John?

Yes, St. John offers limited public transportation in the form of open-air taxi services and the VITRAN bus system, but relying solely on them can be challenging due to infrequent schedules and limited coverage. It’s best to consider these options as supplemental to other forms of transportation.

While taxis are readily available at the ferry dock in Cruz Bay and popular destinations like Trunk Bay, they typically operate on a per-person fare, which can quickly become expensive, especially for groups. Fares are regulated, so drivers should have a rate sheet available. VITRAN, the Virgin Islands Transit system, operates a bus route that covers much of the island, but the schedule can be infrequent and subject to change. It's wise to check the current schedule if you intend to use the bus.

Given the limited availability and potential cost of taxis, and the infrequent schedule of the VITRAN bus, many visitors opt to rent a vehicle – typically a Jeep or other SUV suitable for the island's hilly terrain and sometimes rough roads. This allows for greater flexibility and the ability to explore the island's more remote beaches and hiking trails. However, be aware that parking can be limited in some areas, especially during peak season.

What's the best airport to fly into to get to St. John?

The best airport to fly into to get to St. John is Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas. There is no airport on St. John itself, so you'll always need to arrive on a neighboring island and then take a ferry.

While St. Croix's Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) is another option for flying into the US Virgin Islands, it’s much further from St. John and involves a longer and less frequent ferry connection. Flying into STT is overwhelmingly the most convenient and common route. From STT, you have several options for getting to St. John: a taxi to either the Red Hook or Charlotte Amalie ferry docks, followed by a ferry ride. The Red Hook ferry is generally the faster and more frequent option, taking approximately 20 minutes. The Charlotte Amalie ferry is less frequent and takes about 45-60 minutes, but it may be a more convenient option depending on your arrival time and where you're staying on St. John. The ground transportation on St. Thomas from the airport to the ferry docks can vary greatly in price depending on whether you take a shared taxi, a private taxi, or arrange for a pre-booked car service. Factor that cost, along with the ferry ticket price, into your travel budget. Consider the time of day you arrive; ferry schedules can be less frequent in the evenings. Pre-booking a private transfer or coordinating with your accommodation on St. John for transportation can simplify the process, especially if you're arriving late.

So there you have it! Hopefully, this guide has made planning your trip to St. John a little easier and less stressful. We can't wait for you to experience the island's beauty for yourself. Thanks for reading, and please come back soon for more travel tips and inspiration!