Start at the right dock
Passenger ferries and car barges serve different needs. A passenger ticket gets you across without a vehicle; a car-barge journey requires a suitable vehicle, the rental company’s permission when applicable, and the correct operator’s ticket.
Compare Red Hook and Crown Bay against your starting point on St. Thomas. Include the taxi journey and boarding deadline, rather than choosing solely by the boat’s crossing time. The ferry comparison below gives you the practical differences.
Pick a beach that fits your group
The National Park Service identifies Route 20 as access to North Shore beaches including Hawksnest, Trunk Bay and Cinnamon Bay. Decide what your group needs: shade, facilities, equipment, step-free access or a shorter outing. Confirm current facilities and park alerts before choosing.
A taxi can simplify a visit from Cruz Bay. Ask where you will be dropped off, what the fare covers and how you will get back. A rental gives flexibility but adds parking and driving decisions; it does not remove the need to plan the return.
Protect the return part of the day
Choose the return ferry before adding lunch or another beach. Ask your transport provider for a realistic pickup time and agree where you will meet. Keep space for loading, tickets, traffic and delays.
If you must reach a flight or cruise ship, confirm that deadline with the airline or crew and agree the necessary travel allowance with your provider. A timetable or saved itinerary cannot guarantee a connection.
- Save your operator and taxi contact details offline.
- Carry water, sun protection and the payment methods your providers accept.
- Check beach conditions and park alerts on the day.
- Keep the final stop optional if the day runs late.