How to Get to St John, US Virgin Islands – Ferry, Car Rentals, & Tips

Are you wondering how to get to St John, the remote island paradise in the US Virgin Islands?

Let’s face it: St. John is an island lover’s dream. With its breathtaking beaches, hikes, and vibrant underwater world, this tiny gem in the Caribbean is a must-visit for any adventurer or relaxation seeker. But getting to St. John requires a little planning. No worries—I’ve got you covered! Here’s all you need to know about how to get to St John.

Flying Into St. Thomas

First things first, St. John has no airport, so it is impossible to fly directly to St. John. To reach St. John, you’ll first need to fly into St. Thomas (STT), the neighboring island. The Cyril E. King Airport in St. Thomas is the main gateway, welcoming flights from various US cities. But no worries, from here, you’re just a 20-40 minute ferry ride away from your final destination of St. John, depending on the ferry you take!  

Ferry from St. Thomas to St. John

The ferry ride is part of the adventure! Since there is no airport on St. John, a ferry is the most popular way to reach the island. With a breeze blowing through your hair, warm sun on your face, and turquoise waters as far as the eye can see, the ferry is the perfect welcome to island life.  

There are two main ferry routes from St. Thomas to St. John: Red Hook and Charlotte Amalie. Here’s what you need to know about each:

The Red Hook Ferry

The Red Hook Ferry is a popular choice due to its frequency and options. There is a passenger ferry and a car ferry for those who want to rent a car in St. Thomas. Ferries run almost every hour, making them super convenient.   

The Red Hook ferry is also the shortest boat ride and only takes 20 minutes to cross to Cruz Bay, St. John’s main town. The downside? It’s about a 30-minute drive from the airport, so you’ll need to factor in taxi or shuttle time. Once aboard, you can sit back, relax, and soak in the Caribbean views.

The Charlotte Amalie Ferry

The Charlotte Amalie ferry is an excellent option if you prefer a more direct route from the airport. This ferry departs from the harbor in downtown Charlotte Amalie, which is only a 5-10 minute taxi ride from the airport. So you’ll spend less time in a car than with the Red Hook ferry but more time on the boat. The boat ride to St. John takes about 45 minutes, giving you extra time to enjoy the ocean scenery.

The Charlotte Amalie ferry runs less frequently than the Red Hook ferry, so be sure to check the schedule beforehand. But if you’re in no rush and want a peaceful start to your vacation, this longer ferry ride might be the perfect fit.

My FAVORITE Ferry

Having done both the Red Hook car ferry and the Charlotte Amalie ferry- for me, the Charlotte Amalie ferry is the clear winner. I’m prone to car sickness, so the curvy, highly congested route to Red Hook isn’t for me. The convenience of the Charlotte Amalie ferry location is a great way to get into vacation mode. Did I mention there is a restaurant and bar next door to the ferry? So grab a Pain Killer and enjoy the marina views while waiting. When we docked in Cruz Bay, our rental car awaited us. Anytime our flights align with the Charlotte Amalie ferry, this will be our choice. Every. Single. Time.

Update: As of November 2024, the restaurant closed, but fingers crossed something great opens up in it’s place… and soon!

Car Rentals in St. John

Now that you’ve arrived in St. John, how will you get around? If you did not rent a car in St. Thomas, renting a car in St. John is highly recommended, especially if you plan on exploring the beautiful island and its various beaches.

Jeep Rentals: The Island Favorite

St. John is known for its hilly terrain and off-the-beaten-path adventures, so a four-wheel-drive vehicle, like a Jeep, is your best bet. Jeep rentals are widely available on the island, and they’ll give you the freedom to explore with confidence, from the famous Trunk Bay to the hidden gems tucked away in the National Park.

Reserve in Advance

Car rentals in St. John can sell out quickly, especially during peak travel times, so it’s necessary to book your rental car in advance. Most rental companies offer airport pickup on St. Thomas, so you can drive onto the car barge and ferry to St. John. Alternatively, you can pick up your rental in Cruz Bay once you’ve arrived.

Driving Tips for St. John

Driving on St. John is part of the island’s charm, but there are a few things to keep in mind:

1. Drive on the Left: Yes, it’s true! In the US Virgin Islands, you drive on the left side of the road. It might feel a little strange at first, but don’t worry—you’ll get the hang of it quickly. Just be mindful, especially when making turns.
2. Stay Alert: The roads in St. John are narrow, winding, and often steep. Pay attention to the road signs, watch for sudden curves, and take your time. You’ll also encounter plenty of wildlife, from wild donkeys to goats, so keep an eye out for these friendly locals.
3. Parking in Cruz Bay: Parking can be a bit tricky, especially during busy times. There are a few free spots, but they fill up fast. There are several paid parking lots in downtown Cruz Bay.  

How to Get to St John – Final Thoughts

Getting to St. John might require a little planning, but trust me—it’s worth it! From the scenic ferry rides to the exhilarating drives, every step of the journey adds to the adventure. Once you set foot in St. John, you’ll know you’ve arrived somewhere special. So pack your bags, grab your sense of adventure, and get ready for the trip of a lifetime. St. John is waiting for you!