Are you looking for a unique way to explore the Virgin Islands? Island hopping is a great way to experience the beauty of the Caribbean without having to stay in one place. There are three convenient ways to go from island to island: rent a boat, use a ferry, or fly between islands. Read on to learn more about each option and decide which islands you would like to visit. Thomas (USVI) is the entry point for most people to the Virgin Islands. From Thomas, it's quite easy to catch a ferry to any of the other islands.
And unlike Hawaii, these islands are very close to each other, so it often only takes 20 to 30 minutes by ferry between neighboring islands. This makes it relatively easy to jump between several different islands in a single trip. A short ferry ride from St. Thomas is St. John, which is the destination of choice for “expert” travelers who want to enjoy the beauty of the Virgin Islands without all the chaos.
A large part of the island's north coast is preserved as a United States National Park, so the beaches are pristine and downright magical. It also means that there aren't a lot of services. You'll have to drive every day and pack and take out everything you want to take with you. There are quite a few people in St. John in other places (Cruz Bay is the center), but it's not too crowded with tourists. I think it has the perfect balance between an unknown environment and, at the same time, all the amenities you would want on vacation (beach bars, restaurants, nice boutiques, etc.).
As with the other British Virgin Islands, you will have to go through customs and pay a border tax when you go to and from Jost Van Dyke, so keep in mind that traveling here will be a little more expensive. If it's your first time in the Virgin Islands and you're not sure where to start, this beginner's guide to how to go from island to island in the Virgin Islands is for you. Thomas (USVI) is the entry point for most people to the Virgin Islands.
Croix
and Tortola, but they tend to be more expensive. Thomas, it's quite easy to catch a ferry to any of the other islands. A short ferry ride from St.As with the other British Virgin Islands, you will have to go through customs and pay a border tax when you go to and from Jost Van Dyke, so keep in mind that traveling here will be a little more expensive. If it's your first time in the Virgin Islands and you're not sure where to start, this beginner's guide will help you plan your island hopping adventure!
Renting a Boat
If you're looking for an adventurous way to explore multiple islands in one trip, renting a boat may be your best option. You can rent boats from many different companies on St. Thomas or St. Croix depending on where you're starting your journey. Renting a boat gives you complete freedom over your itinerary - you can choose which islands you want to visit and when - but it also requires some planning ahead of time.You'll need to make sure that your boat has enough fuel for your journey and that you know how long it will take you to get from one island to another.
Ferry Service
Ferry service is another great option for island hopping in the Virgin Islands. Ferries depart regularly from St. Thomas and St. Croix for many of the neighboring islands including Tortola, Jost Van Dyke, and even Virgin Gorda. The ferries don't depart every day so make sure that you plan ahead if this is your preferred method of transportation.The ferries are also relatively inexpensive compared to renting a boat or flying between islands.
