Scrub Island Travel Guide: Getting There from St. Thomas and Tortola

Planning a trip to Scrub Island in the Virgin Islands? Whether you’re flying into St. Thomas (STT) or Beef Island Airport (EIS) in Tortola, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate your journey and reach Scrub Island with ease.

1. Flying into St. Thomas (STT)

St. Thomas is a popular gateway to the Virgin Islands and offers convenient connections to your final destination. Here’s how to get from STT to Scrub Island:

Step 1: Taxi to the Ferry Terminal

• Distance & Time: The ride from St. Thomas airport to the Charlotte Amalie ferry terminal takes about 20-30 minutes, while the trip to the Red Hook terminal is around 40-45 minutes.
• Tip: Charlotte Amalie is closer, but your decision may depend on ferry schedules.

Step 2: Take a Ferry to Road Town, Tortola

• Duration: The ferry ride takes approximately 1 to 1 hour 15 minutes.
• Options:
  • Road Town Fast Ferry: This service runs 3-4 times daily, offering frequent and convenient options.
  • Native Son Ferry: Provides a reliable alternative when the Road Town Fast Ferry isn’t available.
• Tip: Check ferry schedules in advance to align with your arrival.

Step 3: Taxi from Road Town to Trellis Bay Ferry Terminal 

• Time: About 15-20 minutes.
• Cost: Roughly $15 per person.

Step 4: Take the Scrub Island Ferry

• Proximity to Airport: Trellis Bay Ferry Terminal is within walking distance of the Beef Island Airport (EIS), only about 200 feet away.
• Schedule: The Scrub Island ferry operates every 45 minutes between 6:45 am and 10:30 pm. The return schedule runs from 6:30 am to 10:15 pm.
• Duration: The ferry ride to Scrub Island takes about 10 minutes.
• Cost: Complimentary for Scrub Island guests.

Total Travel Time: Allocate 2.5 to 3.5 hours, factoring in taxi rides, ferry schedules, and potential wait times.

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2. Flying into Beef Island Airport (EIS) in Tortola

For those flying directly to Tortola, travel is simplified:

Step 1: Take the Ferry from Trellis Bay to Scrub Island

• Distance: The terminal is conveniently located just 200 feet from the airport.
• Schedule: Runs every 45 minutes from 6:45 am to 10:30 pm, with return trips from 6:30 am to 10:15 pm.
• Duration: The trip takes around 10 minutes.
• Cost: Free for guests staying at Scrub Island.

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3. Private Water Taxi Option

For a more personalized experience, consider booking a private water taxi to avoid set ferry schedules and tailor your journey:

Advantages:

• Customized schedule to fit your arrival time.
• Direct transfer to Tortola with a brief stop to clear customs.
• Stress-free experience as the captain handles customs paperwork, allowing you to relax onboard.

Cost:

• Pricing: Private water taxi services typically range from $70 to $200 per person for a one-way trip. The cost depends on the service provider, type of boat, and level of luxury. Some providers may offer flat rates for groups.
• Customs Fees: Expect to pay between $20 to $75 per person for customs fees, which may vary based on current regulations (i.e. Immigration and port fees, environmental and processing fees).

Providers:

• Island Time Water Taxi
• Last Mile Water Taxi
• Dolphin Water Taxi

Tip: Contact providers directly for pricing and availability to ensure a seamless transfer.

Traveling to Scrub Island can be as enjoyable as the destination itself with the right preparation. Whether you choose the convenience of a ferry or the luxury of a private water taxi, these options make it easy to start your Virgin Islands adventure smoothly.

Have more questions or need further assistance? Feel free to reach out—we’re here to help you make your journey unforgettable!