BVI Day Trips From St. Thomas USVI: Everything You Need To Know

Looking for something different to do on your trip to the US Virgin Islands? Why not take a BVI day trip from St. Thomas USVI by ferry? It’s a fun and easy way to explore another nearby island nation and experience some of the best snorkeling and diving in the Caribbean.

In this blog post, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about taking the ferry from St. Thomas, USVI to Tortola BVI and what to do when you’re touring the popular islands of Tortola, Jost Van Dyke or Virgin Gorda. So pack your passport, snorkel gear, and swimsuit, and let’s go!

How to Get to BVI from St. Thomas USVI

So you’ve run out of things to do in St. Thomas, USVI? Unless you plan on flying, which is much more costly, a ferry is the best way to travel from the US Virgin Islands to the British Virgin Islands, day trip or otherwise. 

It seems that there used to be connections from the USVI island of Cruz Bay, St. John as well as Red Hook, St. Thomas. At this time, I am unable to find any ferries that leave from anywhere except Charlotte Amalie on St. Thomas nor did the operator make any mention that this connection exists.

On BVI, there used to be connections to Great Harbor, Jost van Dyke and Spanish Town, Virgin Gorda, but it seems they no longer run. You’re only options for a direct ferry are to Road Town or West End, Tortola.

Can you Sail from BVI to USVI?

Unfortunately, for those who are taking a private boat charter, sailing from BVI to USVI is a hard no. You used to be able to pay a BVI customs fee to enter, but that has been suspected right now. The charter companies will specify that this is a rule, and the punishment of getting caught is not a good boat to be in (pun intended).

Private boats are able to sail in between BVI and USVI, but there are costs associated with entering/departing.

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BVI to USVI Ferry Information: Who, Where, How

Ferry Port Connections

The largest ferry terminals are Charlotte Amalie of USVI and Road Town of BVI. They are the main islands on which the airport sits and the majority of the population lives on.

If you happen to be flying in and going straight for BVI, the Cyril E. King International Airport is only a short distance of ~3 miles away from the Charlotte Amalie ferry port.

You can either take a taxi that should cost about $10 or walk 10-15 minutes out onto the main road to catch a Safari, which costs a flat $1. You can also try your luck hitchhiking, which is common and a very easy method of transporting yourself on the islands.

Charlotte Amalie Ferry Address: (Across the Street) St. Thomas, Veterans Dr, Charlotte Amalie, St Thomas 00802, U.S. Virgin Islands

Ferry Companies

Three major ferry companies provide international service for a BVI day trip from St. Thomas: Native Son Ferry, Road Town Fast Ferry, and Smith’s Ferry. Tickets may be sold out ahead of time, so booking at least a few days in advance is highly recommended.

Ferry Departures

With all the companies combined, there are at most only 3-4 crossings per day at this time. Each company has one or two departures per day, so if you miss your ferry, you might just have to give up for that day.

Ferry Duration

Taking the ferry from Charlotte Amalie to Road Town takes 1 hour.

Taking the ferry from Charlotte Amalie to West End takes 45 minutes.

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Entry Documents for BVI from USVI

Travel Documents

Like any other international trip, if you plan to go to the British Virgin Islands, you will need your passport and go through a formal immigration process.

The ferry company will hand you the customs declaration form for you to fill out.

COVID Requirements

At this time, you need to present a negative Antigen or PCR COVID Test no more than 48 hours before you enter. If you do not have a test on you, tests are available for $50 on-site. I witnessed a passenger who had come under the assumption as such, but was met with reluctance from the staff to let him onboard.

You will also need to show proof of vaccination.

Proof of Travel Insurance

Before checking in on the ferry, the receptionist asked to see my proof of insurance that includes any COVID liabilities. I had a cheap plan under SafetyWings, one of the best low-budget nomad insurance plans. The base plan is only $42 dollars, pro-rated based on the number of days you are actually traveling.

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What to Do in BVI: Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, Virgin Gorda

Here are some suggested places to visit for the most popular islands in the BVI, Tortola, Jost van Dyke, and Virgin Gorda. With one day, you don’t really have a chance to island hop too much. If you plan to leave Tortola, ferries leave quite often from Road Town, and you can purchase tickets in person when you arrive.

One Day in Tortola

Tortola is the largest and most populated of all the British Virgin Islands. I have to say, unless you plan to hitchhike, getting around the island is costly and public transportation is limited.

Beaches

There are plenty of beautiful beaches on Tortola, but here are a few favorites.

Cane Garden Bay: Cane Garden Bay is one of the most popular beaches on Tortola, and for good reason. It’s a beautiful stretch of white sand with plenty of bars, restaurants, and instagrammable decor. 

Smuggler’s Cove: This secluded beach is perfect for snorkeling and relaxing in the sun.

Callwood Distillery

Callwood Distillery on Cane Garden holds the title of the oldest rum distillery in the Caribbean. Really just an L-Shaped building from the outside, this old distillery produces various rum, including local specialties with sugar cane and Mamajuana, all of which are available for tasting. Setting foot in this small distillery takes you back in time to the age of pirates with pretty reasonably priced rums.

The Sage Mountain National Park

If you’re looking to explore Tortola’s lush landscape, there are plenty of hiking trails to choose from in Sage Mountain National Park, the highest point of the BVI. Trails line the top ridge, and a dedicated lookout shelter allows you to view the stunning views of Tortola and the surrounding islands.

Road Town

Road Town is the capital of Tortola and the largest town on the island. This is most likely where you will arrive, and it’s a great place to wander around, do some shopping, and grab a bite to eat. 

However, it is not the most exciting place, so I recommend walking through but moving on to save time for the other activities on your agenda.

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One Day in Jost van Dyke

Jost van Dyke is one of the most charming islands in BVI, and it’s a great place to explore one of the best white sand beaches in the whole territory (that’s easily accessible without a private charter). The ferry will land you in Great Harbour, where you can begin this suggested one perfect day itinerary on the blissful small island of Jost van Dyke.

Soggy Dollar and White Bay Beach

Start your day with a day drinking stop at the Soggy Dollar Bar, where you can enjoy one of their famous Painkillers – a deliciously fruity rum cocktail. Sip in paradise as you look out onto White Bay Beach, where you can relax on the powdery white sand and take a dip in the azure waters.

Bubbly Pool

In the afternoon, take a walk to Bubbly Pool, where you can play in the natural jacuzzi and enjoy the incredible views of the open ocean. Be sure to go at low tide to make the most of it!

Sandy Cay

Finish your day with a visit to Sandy Cay, a small uninhabited island off the coast of Jost van Dyke. You may need to attempt to hitch a ride with a passing sailor, but oh, how the remoteness of this island is so appealing.

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One Day in Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda is the perfect place to visit if you’re looking for a day of adventure and relaxation. The island has something for everyone, from seeing how the rich and famous live to stunning beaches and turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea to a fascinating cave system to wade through.

The Baths

One of the most popular attractions in the entire BVI is The Baths. The Baths are a series of enormous granite boulders that have been eroded over time by the sea. 

They’re located in a sheltered cove and offer stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can swim in the calm, turquoise waters as they explore the rocks and end the journey sipping on a cold drink under thatched shades. 

Coppermine Ruins

Two miles away from The Baths is another tourist point of interest, the Coppermine Ruins. The ruins are what’s left of an old copper mine used by the British back in the 18th century. Today, visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the island’s rich history.

Eating Anegada Lobster in Leverick Bay

If you’re looking for a gastronomic dining experience, head to Leverick Bay on the north shore of Virgin Gorda for great food. Here you’ll find some of the best lobster in the Caribbean, Anegada Lobster.

Unless you plan to head to the island of Anegada, the Restaurant at Leverick Bay is one of the best spots to try this local delicacy at one of the lowest prices in the BVI. Make sure to try the conch fritters or fried calamari as well!

Eat Local Foods from Mama Africa

One of the best places to eat on Virgin Gorda is Mama Africa. This local restaurant is not much more than a stand just past the ferry terminal on the right.

The awesome owner, Mama Africa offers a variety of local foods like Roti and Pea Soup to stranger options like Bull Foot Soup, Pig Feet Souse, or Goat Water. Some must-try local drinks like Soursop, Maubi, Sorrel, and Sea Moss are available daily. The portions are hefty, so come hungry!

Water Activities

Snorkeling: Exploring the underwater world by going on a snorkel adventure is always a great option. Savanah Bay on the west side has underwater signs to inform snorkelers of marine life. If you’re lucky, you may see some sea turtles there and plenty of tropical fish. Although it was primarily sandy bottom where I snorkeled in The Baths, it’s a magical sight to swim in the crystal clear water alongside the massive boulders. 

Rentals: Some locations on the island offer watersport rentals like kayaks and SUP’s. 

Diving: Just as you get off the ferry port in Spanish Town, a Dive Shop offers dive trips, rentals, and courses.

Checking Out the Rich Villas in Virgin Sound

If you want to get a taste of luxury, head to Virgin Gorda and check out some of the lavish villas that line the coast. See if you can spot Larry Ellison’s superyacht and many VIP figures with islands just off the northern coast. There are also some beautiful villas located in Virgin Sound that are definitely worth eyeballing.

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How to Get From BVI Back to St. Thomas USVI

This will be basically the same way you came, but going the opposite direction. Return to the ferry port in Road Town to go through the check-in process. (This is ridiculous: but they won’t let you borrow a pen, only sell you one for $1)

Entry Documents from BVI to USVI

Travel Documents

Same as on the way over to BVI from St. Thomas, you will have to show a passport to enter back into the USVI and go through immigration.

COVID Heath Portal Requirement

June 1, 2022 UPDATE: Travelers (at least via ferry) no longer need to submit a COVID test or fill out the USVI health portal to receive a green code.

USVI requires visitors arriving internationally (including the BVI’s) to fill out an application from their Health Portal. Find the link to the application here. Included in the application is your basic information, method of arrival, vaccination records, and uploading a negative COVID test taken within 1 day of flying to 5 days by ferry.

The application will need to get reviewed. It had taken me approximately 3 hours to receive the green QR status code in order to be cleared to enter the USVI. I would recommend not taking a chance and starting the process earlier than later.

If you are coming in for a one-day trip, it may be worth getting a COVID test before arriving, as getting an appointment in the BVI is tricky and costly.

The cheapest place in the entire territory to get a test is on Jost Van Dyke at $50 per test. They require you to make an appointment the previous day to confirm availability. Walk-ins are possible, but I had called at 8:30 am in the morning, and staff said that unless I showed up before 9 am, taking the test wouldn’t be possible.

In general, if you are going to get a test in BVI, expect to pay $50 – $85 per person.

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Total Cost of the Trip

Not including eating, transportation, or any on-land expenses in BVI, taking a BVI day trip from St. Thomas costs a pretty penny, especially when adding up all the hidden fees. If you have more time on your trip, I would recommend going to the BVI for longer than one day, especially since that is not enough time to visit any other island besides Tortola. On the other hand, the standard of living in BVI generally costs a lot more than in USVI.

• Ferry Departure: $60
• Environmental Tax: $10
• Departure Tax: $20
• Ferry Return: $60
• Any Additional luggage: $10 per bag each way
• COVID Test in USVI: $0* Not 100% sure of this, but if it is the same as in the USA, then you will be able to find free options

(June 1, 2022 No Longer Required) COVID Test in BVI: $50-$85 Depending on the island

Save for Road Town, transportation is not readily available or cheap unless you plan on hitchhiking, which is a great way to get around. For example, a taxi ride from Road Town Ferry Terminal to one of the best beaches in Tortola, Cane Garden Beach, costs $30 for one person in a private car. If you have more people in your group, it will be cheaper per person, but more overall. 

At a minimum here, you are looking at $150 just for transportation. The cheapest meals available in Tortola for one drink and an entree will cost you at least $30 per person per meal.

So conclusion, if you plan on heading to BVI, it is a fantastic place, but I would get my expectations straight of how much it would cost you to visit. 

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Is It Worth Visiting BVI from St. Thomas USVI?

Yes, it is worth going to BVI from St. Thomas if you plan on going for longer than a day trip. The beauty of BVI doesn’t lie on Tortola but on the other 50+ islands surrounding it. So if you are alright with hitchhiking and couch surfing or planning a sailing trip, the costs may outweigh the pros of visiting just on a day trip. 

TRAVEL RESOURCES

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