The Operators
The two ferry companies between St Martin and St Barts
Two operators run regular service between St Martin and St Barts. Both dock at the port of Gustavia, in the heart of town. Which one you choose depends on which side of St Martin you start from.
| Operator | From | Crossing |
|---|---|---|
| Great Bay Express | Philipsburg (Dutch side, near SXM airport) | ~45 min |
| Voyager | Marigot (French side) | ~60 min |
| Voyager | Oyster Pond (east coast) | Shorter — closest port to St Barts |
Great Bay Express departs from Philipsburg on the Dutch side. It is generally the faster, smoother ride and is convenient if you are flying into SXM airport[1]. Voyager departs from Marigot on the French side, or from Oyster Pond on the east coast, which is geographically closer to St Barts[2].
Schedules and fares change seasonally and are best checked directly with the operators — see Sources below.
The Crossing
What the ferry crossing to St Barts is actually like
- The open-water channel between St Martin and St Barts can get choppy. December through March is the roughest stretch, when trade winds build. If you are prone to seasickness, the 10-minute flight is the gentler option.
- Ferries carry luggage, but oversized items such as surfboards or golf bags may need special arrangements — check with the operator before travelling.
- Peak-season ferries sell out. Book ahead if you are travelling between mid-December and April.
- If you are flying into SXM and then taking the ferry, you still need a taxi from the airport to the ferry terminal in either Philipsburg or Marigot — that transfer takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on St Martin traffic.
The ferry is cheaper and avoids strict luggage limits. The plane is faster and steadier in rough seas. Many visitors fly one way and take the ferry the other to enjoy both. See the airport and flights guide for the air option.
Arrival
Docking in Gustavia: getting from the port to your hotel
The ferry docks at the port of Gustavia, the capital, surrounded by restaurants, shops and the harbour where mega-yachts moor in high season. It is a beautiful place to arrive.
When the ferry docks, there may be a taxi or two waiting. However, if two ferries arrive close together, those taxis vanish within minutes. The reliable approach is to have a driver waiting when the ferry docks in Gustavia, so someone is already there when you step off with your bags. The official Gustavia port taxi stand can also be reached at +590 590 27 66 31.
Catching an early-morning ferry back
If you are leaving on an early ferry, arrange your ride the night before. Set a pickup time from your hotel to the Gustavia port. Ferries do not wait, and the first departures leave before most of the island is awake — do not count on finding a taxi last minute.
FAQ
St Barts ferry: frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry from St Martin to St Barts?
About 45 minutes from Philipsburg with Great Bay Express, or about 60 minutes from Marigot with Voyager. Both dock at Gustavia.
Is the crossing rough?
It can be, especially December through March. If you get seasick easily, consider the 10-minute flight instead.
Should I book in advance?
Yes, in high season. Ferries sell out between mid-December and April. Buy tickets directly from the operators.
Sources
Sources for this page
- Great Bay Express — official ferry operator, Philipsburg ↔ Gustavia. greatbayexpress.com
- Voyager — official ferry operator, Marigot & Oyster Pond ↔ Gustavia. voy12.com
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