Planning a trip to Scrub Island, one of the most isolated retreats in the British Virgin Islands? Having flown into St. Thomas (USVI) or Beef Island Airport (Tortola, BVI), you'll discover multiple easy options that drop you off at the resort's own private marina. From taxis and ferries to private luxury water transfers, this guide deconstructs the top routes to Scrub Island and how to get to scrub island, so you can worry less about logistics and focus more on basking in Caribbean magic.
Before diving into the routes, let’s set the scene. Scrub Island is a private luxury resort in the British Virgin Islands, known for its pristine beaches, yacht marina, and relaxed exclusivity. With just a short scrub island ferry ride separating it from Tortola, the island offers the perfect balance between privacy and convenience. It’s not just about arriving, it’s about arriving in style.
Getting to Scrub Island from St. Thomas (STT)
For most overseas visitors, the best gateway for St. Thomas to scrub island is Cyril E. King Airport (STT) due to direct access from the mainland USA. The following is a step-by-step guide:
Step 1 - Taxi to Ferry Terminal
- Take a taxi from STT airport to Charlotte Amalie (20–30 minutes) or Red Hook (40–45 minutes).
- Tip - Charlotte Amalie is nearer, but Red Hook sometimes has more synchronised ferry timetables.
Step 2 - Ferry to Tortola
Choices are:
- Road Town Fast Ferry (regular and safe, 3–4 trips a day).
- Native Son Ferry, alternative if Fast Ferry is not available.
- Time - About 1 to 1.25 hours over the Caribbean sea.
This is where the ferry service from St Thomas to Tortola comes in handy with multiple connections.
Step 3 - Taxi to Trellis Bay
- Ride a taxi from the airport to the Trellis Bay Ferry Terminal for 15–20 minutes.
- Cost - About $15 per person.
Step 4 - Scrub Island Ferry
- Just a 10-minute boat trip apart is Trellis Bay and Scrub Island.
- Schedule - Half hour interval from 6:45 am – 10:30 pm on the ferry. Guests often check the scrub island ferry schedule in advance to plan their arrival.
- Perk - As a visitor at Scrub Island Resort, this ferry excursion is on the house.
- Total Travel Time - Approximately 2.5–3.5 hours, depending on connections.
Traveling to Scrub Island from Tortola (EIS)
If you can arrange for your flight into scrub island airport (Beef Island Airport (EIS) directly, your travel is practically smooth sailing.
- The Trellis Bay Ferry Terminal is literally 200 feet from the airport, a short walk away.
- The Scrub Island ferry comes and goes every 45 minutes, so waiting time will never be a problem.
- Travel time - Just 10 minutes to paradise.
- Cost - Complimentary for Scrub Island guests.
- Total Travel Time - About 10–15 minutes from landing to boarding the resort ferry.
Pro Tip: If convenience is your top priority, booking scrub island flights is the smoothest option by far. Many travellers also look for direct flights to scrub island, connecting via San Juan or St. Thomas for quicker arrival.
Private Water Taxi – The VIP Experience
For those who don't want to wait for ferry schedules, a private water taxi makes the journey personalized and hassle-free.
Why Choose a Water Taxi?
- Its purpose-designed for your time of arrival (no waiting to fit into a schedule).
- Direct transfer to Tortola, with the captain handling the customs paperwork.
- A picturesque, private drive through the Caribbean to begin your holiday in style.
Pricing & Details
- Usually $70–$200 per person one way, depending on vessel and luxury rating.
- Customs duty ($20–$75 per person) is collectible and depends on regulation.
Island Time Water Taxi, Dolphin Water Taxi, and Last Mile Water Taxi are the major operators. It's a great choice if you're traveling in groups, flat rates typically end up being inexpensive.
Which Route to Take?
- Budget travelers - St. Thomas + ferry route is the most economical and dependable.
- Convenience travelers - Direct air into EIS (Tortola) avoids hours of travel time.
- Luxury enthusiasts - Private water taxis ensure hassle-free arrival and at your own pace.
Whichever your journey, every trip offers a unique Caribbean experience. If you are still wondering how to get to scrub island, the options are many but in the end they all depend on your budget.
Whatever your mode of arrival, whether through the excitement of arriving via St. Thomas, the convenience of flying into Tortola, or the luxury of a private water taxi, figuring out how to get to scrub island is all part of the Caribbean adventure. Once you arrive, the blue water, white sand beach, and the friendly island hospitality make the journey worthwhile.
FAQs
- How long does it take to travel from St. Thomas to Scrub Island?
Budget 2.5 to 3.5 hours total, including taxi, ferry transfers and waiting around.
- Is the Scrub Island ferry to Trellis Bay free?
Yes, if you are a resort guest at Scrub Island, the Trellis Bay to Scrub Island ferry is complimentary.
- Do I require a passport to travel from St. Thomas to Scrub Island?
Yes. Because St. Thomas is an American territory and Scrub Island is in the British Virgin Islands, you will be going through customs when you check in.
- Are pre-booked ferry tickets available?
Yes, and very much recommended. Compare timetables online with operators like Road Town Fast Ferry.
- Is a private water taxi worth it?
If in a group or traveling with family and wanting ultimate convenience, yes, it's time-saving and provides direct, hassle-free travel.
Or drop us a mail at help@beno.com
