Port information & tips for Jost Van Dyke Island
Jost Van Dyke is the easygoing jewel of the British Virgin Islands, embodying the epitome of Caribbean serenity in a compact space. The island captivates with its authentic charm and powder-white sandy beaches, inviting guests to an exclusive barefoot experience thanks to its relaxed atmosphere. Outstanding highlights include the dreamy White Bay with the legendary Soggy Dollar Bar and the world-famous Foxy’s Tamarind Bar in Great Harbour. As the island preserves its original character, guests reach the shore by tender boat at the Great Harbour Pier. This central arrival point also provides direct access to the tranquil main village, from where the iconic beach bars and picturesque coastal paths can be easily explored on foot.
Jost Van Dyke is a small island in the British Virgin Islands and is typically reached by ferry after a flight to the larger neighboring islands. Direct travel by car or train to the island's port is not possible.
Airplane
Travel from the DACH region typically involves long-haul flights to major hubs such as San Juan (SJU) or Miami (MIA). From there, connecting flights are available to Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS) on Tortola, the largest airport in the British Virgin Islands. An alternative route leads via Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas (USVI), from where ferry connections to Jost Van Dyke also exist. Due to the long flight duration and the required ferry connection, an overnight stay on one of the neighboring islands before embarkation is strongly recommended.
Ferry & Transfer
After arriving on Tortola (EIS), you can reach the ferry terminal in West End by taxi, from where regular ferry connections to Great Harbour on Jost Van Dyke are offered. The crossing takes about 30-40 minutes. Ferry connections are also available from St. Thomas (STT), though these take longer and often require a stopover on Tortola. Additionally, some private charter or water taxis offer a more direct transfer, which can be particularly advantageous for larger groups.
Pre-Cruise Stay
To break up the journey and ensure a relaxed start to your cruise, a pre-cruise stay on Tortola or St. Thomas is recommended. Numerous hotels on these islands offer pleasant overnight accommodations before you conveniently take the ferry to Jost Van Dyke the following day. This allows you to acclimatize and provides more flexibility in the event of potential flight delays.
Check-in & Embarkation
Please note that your travel documents will usually provide you with a fixed time slot for check-in, which is mandatory for your embarkation. Plan sufficient time for your journey to the port and keep in mind that the latest embarkation time—depending on the cruise line and destination—is generally scheduled about one hour before the planned departure.
The following also applies during the trip: For shore excursions, you should be back on board no later than one hour before departure. Always pay attention to the current announcements and notices on board, as mooring and departure times may change at short notice.
