- Visa Required: No (visa free for most nationalities)
- Currency: US Dollar (USD)
- Language: English
- Best Months: December through May
- Average Temperature: 28.1°C (82°F)
- Nearest Airport: Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St Thomas
- Location: Lesser Antilles, US Virgin Islands
St John How To Get There: Start Your Journey
St John is a stunning island in the US Virgin Islands. It sits in the Lesser Antilles, just east of Puerto Rico. Getting to St John how to get there is straightforward and simple. Most visitors fly into nearby St Thomas first. From there, you take a short ferry to St John. This guide covers every way to reach this beautiful island destination.
The island covers 50.8 square kilometers and has about 4,100 residents. English is the main language here, making travel easy. The US dollar is the currency, so you need no currency exchange. St John sits at coordinates 18.34, -64.74 in the Caribbean Sea. The best months to visit run from December through May. These months offer perfect weather and calm seas for travel.
Flights To St John
You cannot fly directly to St John. The island has no commercial airport. Instead, all visitors fly to Cyril E. King Airport on nearby St Thomas. This airport serves the entire US Virgin Islands region. Major airlines operate daily flights from the mainland United States.
American Airlines flies from multiple US cities to St Thomas. Delta, United, and JetBlue also serve this route regularly. Flight times from the East Coast average three to four hours. From the West Coast, flights take six to seven hours. Consider flying into San Juan, Puerto Rico as an alternative route.
If you choose San Juan, you then fly to St Thomas. Several regional carriers operate this short 45-minute flight daily. These include Seaborne Airlines and Air Sunshine. Both airlines have excellent safety records and frequent schedules. The San Juan route works well if you find better fares there.
Book your flights at least six weeks in advance during peak season. Peak season runs from December through March. Prices drop significantly if you travel in summer months. Hurricane season is June through November, so fewer tourists visit then. Airfare is cheaper but weather risk increases during these months.
Pack light since you will need to transfer between airports and boats. The ferry ride to St John can get rough in bad weather. Heavy luggage becomes a burden during ground transport. Most accommodations on St John offer laundry services for extended stays.
PRO TIP: Arrive at Cyril E. King Airport early, as it gets busy during peak season. The airport is small and can experience delays. Allow extra time for car rental if you plan to drive to the ferry dock.
St John Airport Guide
Cyril E. King Airport is on St Thomas, about 45 minutes from the ferry to St John. The airport code is STT. It is the main gateway for the entire US Virgin Islands. The airport has a small but functional terminal building.
Upon arrival, you clear US immigration and customs. Remember that the US Virgin Islands are part of the United States. Most travelers from the mainland need no passport. However, check current US immigration requirements before traveling. Many international travelers need an ESTA or US visa for entry.
The airport has car rental desks, taxi stands, and information booths. ATMs are available inside the terminal for cash withdrawal. Cell phone service works immediately upon arrival since this is US territory. Several restaurants and shops operate in the terminal building.
The airport operates from early morning through evening. Check your specific flight arrival time and plan accordingly. Ground transportation options include rental cars, taxis, and rideshare services. Shuttles from hotels also serve the airport regularly during the day.
Baggage claim moves fairly quickly at this smaller airport. You collect your bags within 30 minutes of landing. The airport is clean and well maintained throughout. Staff members are friendly and helpful with directions and questions.
Getting From the Airport To Your Hotel
You must get from St Thomas airport to the ferry dock. The ferry takes you directly to St John in 20 minutes. Several transport options exist for this journey. Choose based on your budget, group size, and luggage amount.
Rental Car Option
Renting a car gives you the most flexibility. Drive yourself from the airport to the Red Hook ferry terminal. The drive takes about 30 to 45 minutes depending on traffic. Roads in St Thomas can be congested, especially during peak season. Drive on the left side of the road, as this is a former British territory.
Rental car companies include Hertz, Avis, and Budget. All have desks at Cyril E. King Airport. Daily rental rates vary but budget around USD per day. You will not need the car long, so rental costs can add up. Consider a one-way rental that you drop off at Red Hook ferry.
Taxi Option
Taxis wait outside the airport terminal. Tell the driver you need Red Hook ferry terminal. Taxi fares are fixed by the government in the US Virgin Islands. The ride costs approximately USD for one to four passengers. Each additional passenger pays a small surcharge.
Taxis take longer than driving yourself due to multiple stops. However, drivers know the roads well and navigate safely. They speak English and are accustomed to tourists. Taxi drivers expect a 15 percent tip in US dollars.
Rideshare Option
Uber operates in St Thomas and serves the airport. Open the app and request a ride to Red Hook ferry terminal. Pickup happens outside the airport in the designated zone. Prices vary based on demand but typically range from USD to USD. Surge pricing applies during busy travel times.
PRO TIP: If traveling with a group, split a taxi to Red Hook ferry terminal. This costs less than individual rideshare rides and you avoid rental car hassles. Keep your receipt and provide it to your hotel for reimbursement if applicable.
Ferry and Cruise Options
The ferry is the main way to reach St John from St Thomas. The Red Hook ferry terminal is the primary departure point. Ferries run multiple times daily, starting early in the morning. The journey takes about 20 minutes and costs USD per adult one-way.
Red Hook Ferry Service
Red Hook Ferry operates the most frequent service to St John. Ferries depart every hour from early morning to evening. The schedule changes seasonally based on demand and weather. Check the current schedule before arriving at the terminal.
The ferry docks at Cruz Bay on St John. Cruz Bay is the main town and commercial center of St John. From there, taxis and shuttles take you to your hotel. Most accommodations arrange pickup from Cruz Bay ferry dock.
The ferry ride offers scenic views of the Coral Sea. You will see other islands and sailboats during the crossing. Bring sunscreen and a hat for sun protection during the trip. The boat can rock during rough seas, so take medication if prone to seasickness.
Alternative Ferry: Varlack Ventures
Varlack Ventures offers ferry service between St Thomas and St John. This company operates fewer departures than Red Hook Ferry. Check their schedule ahead of time for your preferred travel time. Service is reliable and staff are professional.
Cruise Ship Option
Many visitors arrive by cruise ship. Cruise ships dock at various ports in the US Virgin Islands. Some ships dock at Charlotte Amalie on St Thomas. Others dock at Tortola in the British Virgin Islands. St John receives cruise ship visitors who take shore excursions.
Cruise passengers typically spend one day on St John. They visit Virgin Islands National Park and popular beaches. Excursion companies arrange boat transportation and guide services. This option works well for cruise passengers but not for overnight stays.
Getting To St John From Nearby Islands
St John is part of the US Virgin Islands cluster. Other nearby islands include St Thomas, St Croix, and the British Virgin Islands. Ferry service connects these islands, allowing easy hopping between destinations.
From St Thomas
St Thomas is the closest island to St John. The ferry journey takes 20 minutes. Ferries run hourly from Red Hook terminal during most hours. This is the most popular and convenient route for island transfers.
From St Croix
St Croix sits south of St John. Ferry service runs between St Croix and St Thomas. From St Thomas, you catch a ferry to St John. The total journey takes about three to four hours including the wait between ferries.
From British Virgin Islands
The British Virgin Islands are just east of St John. Tortola is the main island in this group. Ferry service operates between Tortola and St Thomas. Some ferries stop at Virgin Gorda as well. From St Thomas, catch the ferry to St John as usual.
Immigration rules apply when traveling between US and British territory. Bring your passport even though distances are short. The ferries offer scenic routes with beautiful ocean views. Journey times vary between 30 and 45 minutes depending on conditions.
PRO TIP: If island hopping, plan your ferry schedule carefully. Ferry schedules change seasonally and some routes run less frequently. Buy a multi-island pass if available to save money on multiple ferry trips between islands.
Transport Tips and Costs
Getting Around St John Island
Once you arrive on St John, you need local transportation. Several options work depending on your plans and budget. The island has taxis, car rentals, and shuttle services. Public transportation is limited but affordable when available.
Taxi Services
Taxis are the most common way to travel on St John. They wait at the Cruz Bay ferry dock. Tell the driver your destination and they quote a fare upfront. Fares are regulated by the government, so prices are consistent.
From Cruz Bay to Trunk Bay costs approximately USD. Rides to Coral Reef Underwater Park run about USD. Fares to remote beaches on the island range from USD to USD. Prices increase after 6 PM and on Sundays and holidays.
Most taxi drivers are friendly and knowledgeable about the island. They can recommend restaurants and activities. Drivers expect 15 percent tips in USD currency. Always confirm the fare before starting your journey.
Car Rental
Several rental agencies operate on St John. You can arrange rentals through your hotel. Daily rates start around USD but vary seasonally. Insurance costs extra and is highly recommended on island roads.
The roads on St John are narrow and hilly. Drive defensively and watch for other vehicles. Potholes exist on some roads, so proceed carefully. Keep your international driving permit and insurance documents handy.
Hotel Shuttles
Many resorts offer shuttle services to the ferry dock. Ask about shuttle availability when you book. Some hotels charge USD per person while others include it free. Shuttles operate on fixed schedules, so plan accordingly.
Virgin Islands National Park Transportation
Virgin Islands National Park covers much of St John. The park visitor center is in Cruz Bay near the ferry dock. Rangers offer guided walks and educational programs. Park trails are free to explore during daylight hours. The park has picnic areas and restroom facilities at main beaches.
Cost Summary
Budget your transportation as follows: Ferry from St Thomas USD, taxi from dock to hotel USD to USD, local taxis during stay USD per trip. Car rental optional at USD per day. Most travelers spend USD to USD daily on transportation excluding international flights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a Passport To Visit St John?
Most US citizens need only a driver's license for travel to St John. US citizens born in the 50 states can travel freely between US territories. However, international travelers must follow US immigration rules. Many nationalities need an ESTA or full US visa. Check with your embassy before booking travel. Non-US citizens should always carry a valid passport for entry.
What Is the Best Way To Get To St John From the Airport?
The ferry is the best option for most travelers. Fly into Cyril E. King Airport on St Thomas. Rent a car or take a taxi to Red Hook ferry terminal. The 20-minute ferry costs about USD per person. Ferries run hourly during most of the day. This option is more affordable than flying directly if that were possible.
How Much Does It Cost To Ferry From St Thomas To St John?
Ferry fares from Red Hook terminal to Cruz Bay cost approximately USD per adult one-way. Return tickets cost about USD. Children under age two travel free. Seniors and military personnel receive discounts. Check with the ferry company for current pricing as fares may change seasonally. Budget approximately USD to USD per person for your ferry transportation.
Can Cruise Ship Passengers Visit St John for the Day?
Yes, cruise passengers can visit St John during port days. Ships dock at nearby ports on St Thomas or in the British Virgin Islands. Shore excursions transport passengers to St John. Popular excursions include beach days and snorkeling trips. Most passengers spend four to six hours on the island. Return to your ship before departure times to avoid missing the boat.
What Documents Do International Visitors Need for Entry?
International visitors must follow US immigration requirements. Most travelers need a valid passport. Many nationalities also require an ESTA or US visa. Check with the US State Department website for your specific country. Processing times vary, so apply early before your trip. The US Virgin Islands are a US territory, so the same rules apply as entering the mainland.