Ceiba Ferry to Vieques & Culebra: Ultimate Travel Guide

Getting to the Ceiba Ferry Terminal

Location: The Ceiba Ferry Terminal (Terminal de Lanchas de Ceiba) is located at the former Roosevelt Roads Naval Base in Ceiba, on Puerto Rico’s eastern coast. It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from San Juan and close to the town of Fajardo. All ferries to Vieques and Culebra now depart from here, so plan your route to Ceiba in advance.

  • By Car: Driving is the most convenient way to reach Ceiba. From San Juan, take Route 66 east, then Route 3 towards Fajardo/Ceiba. Follow signs for the Ceiba ferry or Roosevelt Roads. The drive is straightforward and takes roughly 1 to 1.5 hours. Click here to see a map.

    • Parking: There’s a large official parking lot available near the terminal (follow the signs down Marina Drive). It costs about $15 per day, and a shuttle van will take you to the ferry dock. 

    • Tip: Do not park along the road – use the lot to avoid tickets.

  • By Taxi/Rideshare: You can take a taxi or Uber/Lyft from San Juan to Ceiba, but it can be expensive due to the distance (expect around $80–$100 each way). If you’re traveling with a group, a rideshare can be a convenient option to split the cost. Be sure to arrange pickup in advance for your return trip; rideshares may not always be readily available in Ceiba, especially late in the day.

  • By Public Transport: Unfortunately, there’s no direct public bus to the Ceiba ferry. Some travelers take a bus or público (shared van) from San Juan to Fajardo and then a short taxi to Ceiba, but this can be time-consuming and unreliable. Renting a car or taking a taxi is the most time-efficient way to get to the ferry terminal.

Terminal Facilities: The Ceiba terminal has a fairly simple setup but covers the basics. You’ll find outdoor ticket windows on the side of the main building and an indoor waiting area with restrooms and a small concession stand for snacks and drinks. The waiting room is air-conditioned – a nice perk while you wait in the tropical heat. There are usually security officers and ferry staff around if you have questions. Keep your ferry ticket handy and carry a valid photo ID, as you may need to show ID along with your ticket during boarding.

Ferry Schedules & Tickets

Ferries run daily from Ceiba to Vieques and to Culebra, with multiple departures per day on each route. Departure times can vary by season and weekday vs. weekend, so it’s best to check the official schedule online rather than rely on old information. DO NOT rely on outdated Fajardo schedules – all ferries leave from Ceiba now, and the routes are shorter and more frequent than in the Fajardo days. Schedules can change due to weather, maintenance, or demand, so always confirm the latest times.

Official Schedule: Puerto Rico’s ferry system is operated in partnership with Hornblower Cruises as “Puerto Rico Ferry”. You can view up-to-date schedules for Ceiba–Vieques and Ceiba–Culebra on the official website. Rather than listing specific times here (they may change), use the site’s schedule lookup for your travel dates. Ferries typically start early morning (~6am) and run until early evening, with extra trips on weekends and holidays. There are separate ferries for each island, so make sure you’re checking the correct schedule for Ceiba to Vieques or Ceiba to Culebra.

Key Travel Times:

  • Ceiba to Culebra: ~45–55 minute ferry ride (the faster passenger ferries take under an hour; cargo ferries can take up to 1.5 hrs)
  • Ceiba to Vieques: ~30–45 minute ferry ride (Vieques is closer to the main island)

These are one-way durations once the ferry departs. Keep in mind ferries might run a little behind schedule at times, but generally the crossings are well under an hour.

When to Arrive: It’s strongly recommended to be at the Ceiba terminal at least 1 hour before your ferry’s departure time. This is especially important on weekends or holidays when lines are longer. Boarding closes 10 minutes before the scheduled time, meaning if you arrive last-minute, you could be denied boarding even if you have a ticket. Give yourself a cushion to park, buy/collect tickets, and get in line. If you’re driving from San Juan, leave early in case of traffic or delays on Route 3.

Ticket Reservations: Ferry tickets often sell out, so try to purchase tickets in advance if possible. There are three ways to get tickets:

  • Online: The easiest way is to book on the official Puerto Rico Ferry website. You can also use the City Experiences mobile app (available in English) to buy and store tickets. Online ticket sales open a few weeks to a month ahead of time and may only release a portion of the seats (usually ~20%).
    Pro tip: If your date shows “sold out,” it usually means the online allotment is gone — not the whole ferry. More tickets are always held for in-person purchase at the terminal.
  • In Person: You can buy tickets at the Ceiba ferry terminal, either days in advance or same-day. Try to go a day or two early if you're staying nearby. Otherwise, arrive very early the day of travel. High season (winter, July) and weekends often mean long lines and early sell-outs. There are separate lines for each island, and residents have priority access.
  • By Phone: At the time of writing, there’s no reliable phone-based system for buying tickets — stick to online or in-person.
Click to Read More About Prices, Rules, & Using Tickets

Ticket Prices: One-way fares are extremely affordable:

  • Ceiba to Vieques: $2.00 (adult)
  • Ceiba to Culebra: $2.50 (adult)
  • Children (3–11) & Seniors (60–74): $1.00
  • Infants (0–2) & Elders (75+): Free

Note: Non-residents pay a $2.00 Environmental Preservation Fee to Culebra, so tourists effectively pay $4.50 one-way there. Vieques remains $2.00. These fees are subject to change but are still incredibly cheap.

Online bookings may include a small processing fee. Large items (coolers, suitcases, gear) may require a separate “cargo” ticket. The system will prompt you to add those extras during checkout. One small bag (like a backpack) is included free.

Buying & Using Tickets: If purchased online, you’ll receive an e-ticket (email or text). Print or screenshot it. Bring valid ID — the ticket must match. At boarding, staff will scan your QR code. Tickets are only valid for your booked time/date. Missed ferries are not automatically transferable — but you may change your time if you do it at least an hour in advance (pending availability). No refunds on unused tickets.

Round-Trip Tickets: Highly recommended. Book your return in advance online or when you buy the outbound ticket. This is especially important for day-trippers. If you’re staying overnight, you may be able to buy the return from the island, but keep in mind those seats can sell out too.

Cost Comparison: Ferries are by far the cheapest option to reach the islands. Flights can cost $60–$150 one-way. Budget travelers overwhelmingly prefer the ferry, though it does require patience with lines and boarding logistics.

Boarding the Ferry: What to Expect

Arriving & Checking In: Once you have your ticket and it’s close to the departure time, listen for announcements or watch where people start lining up. The ferry terminal will typically have one line for Vieques and another for Culebra – make sure you’re in the correct line! If you’re unsure, ask a staff member; they’re used to guiding confused tourists. Local residents may have a separate priority line or boarding process, so the crew might call residents to board first (they show resident IDs). After that, general passengers will be allowed to board. Don’t worry, if you have a ticket, you’ll get on – just be patient and follow instructions.

Boarding Process: About 15–30 minutes before departure, the crew will begin scanning tickets and letting passengers onto the vessel. Have your printed or mobile ticket ready along with a photo ID (the name on the ticket should match). They might do a quick bag check for security – note: no weapons or dangerous items (obviously) and no alcohol or open containers are allowed onboard. Puerto Rico Ferry also does not allow pets out of carriers or loose on leashes during boarding (more on pets below). If you have large coolers or luggage with a separate tag, you may be directed to set those aside in a designated cargo area of the ferry (crew will assist). Boarding is usually via a ramp. The newer ferries are ADA-accessible, with ramps and space for wheelchairs, so passengers with disabilities can board comfortably. If you need extra help, don’t hesitate to ask the staff.

Click to read more about the ferry ride & island arrival

Once onboard, seating is unassigned – you can take any open seat. The passenger ferries are modern double-decker catamarans with indoor seating (air-conditioned cabin) and sometimes an outdoor deck area. For the smoothest ride, grab a seat toward the middle of the vessel. If you’re prone to seasickness, consider sitting where you can see the horizon or at least be near a restroom, just in case. (Seasickness bags are usually available from the crew.)

During the 30–45 minute journey, you can relax and enjoy the views. There’s no food or drink service on the ferry, and consumption of food and beverages is not allowed on board (to keep things clean and discourage messes). So, finish any snacks before boarding. The ferry is a passenger-only service, meaning standard trips do not carry cars (vehicles go on separate cargo ferries – see below). There are bathrooms on the ferry if needed. Many travelers use the time to take photos from the deck, chat with fellow passengers, or just catch a breezy nap in the seat. Before you know it, you’ll be approaching Vieques or Culebra!

Arrival on the Islands: The ferry will dock at the main ferry port on each island – in Vieques, this is Isabel Segunda (often just called “Isabel II” or “Vieques Town”) on the north side. In Culebra, the ferry docks in the town of Dewey (the only town, sometimes just called “Culebra”). Upon disembarking, you’ll exit through the small terminal there.

Transportation on the islands: Right outside the ferry docks, you’ll typically find público vans and taxis waiting. In Vieques, shared vans can take you to Isabel II town center or Esperanza (the other main town) – expect to pay around $5–$10 per person depending on distance. In Culebra, there are usually taxis and jeepetas (safari-style trucks) offering rides to Flamenco Beach and other points.

If you plan to rent a vehicle: Note that rental offices are not at the dock. For example, in Culebra you might rent a golf cart or jeep from an agency in town (some popular ones will send a van to pick you up at the ferry if you arrange ahead). In Vieques, car rental agencies like Maritza’s or Avis are a short drive from the ferry terminal – you’d likely take a taxi there.

Many visitors do fine without a car: on Culebra, you can taxi to Flamenco Beach and back, or even walk to some beaches from town. On Vieques, you’ll probably want a taxi or tour unless you rent a jeep, as the island is larger. Either way, ferry ports have local transportation readily available when each ferry arrives.

If you’re doing a day trip, pay attention to the return ferry times and get back to the pier with at least 30 minutes to spare before your return trip, as lines can form. Enjoy your time on the islands!

Can I Bring a Car on the Ferry?

For most tourists, the answer is no – you generally cannot take a rental car on the Vieques or Culebra ferry. The standard passenger ferries do not transport vehicles at all. There are separate cargo ferries that have limited car spaces, but those spots are primarily reserved for island residents, essential supply trucks, and official vehicles.

In fact, to even buy a vehicle ticket you typically need to show the vehicle’s registration, which a rental car customer wouldn’t have. In the past some people managed to get rental cars on ferries, but it’s not considered feasible now – there is limited capacity, and it’s meant for locals who truly need to transport their cars. Additionally, most rental companies forbid taking their cars off the main island (doing so could violate your rental agreement)

Click to read more about bringing vehicles & the alternatives

Additionally, most rental companies forbid taking their cars off the main island (doing so could violate your rental agreement).

What to do instead: Drive your rental to Ceiba, park it there (for a few bucks a day), and then rent a vehicle locally on Vieques or Culebra if you need one. Both islands have jeep and golf cart rentals available, as well as scooters and bicycles. For short visits, you might not need a car at all – many beaches and attractions can be reached by taxi or tour. Culebra in particular is small enough that some visitors just rent a bike or walk (if they’re avid walkers). Vieques is larger, so a jeep or scooter can help if you want to explore beyond the towns.

In summary, plan to leave your car in Ceiba. The ferry experience is hassle-free without worrying about a vehicle. Enjoy the ride as a walk-on passenger, and pick up any wheels you need after arriving on the islands.

Tips for a Smooth Ferry Experience

Expect Delays: While generally reliable, ferries can run late or be canceled due to weather or maintenance. During winter or hurricane season, build buffer time into your plans — especially if you're catching a flight. Don’t schedule your return for the same day as your departure from Puerto Rico. Check official ferry updates online or on social media for alerts.

Motion Sickness: If you're sensitive to movement, take Dramamine or Bonine beforehand. The ride from Ceiba can be choppy, especially on windy days. Sit on the lower deck near the center for more stability and look at the horizon. The ride is short, but preparation helps.

Pack Light: For day trips, stick to a beach bag with essentials: towel, sunscreen, water, change of clothes. Large luggage requires a paid cargo tag and will be stored separately. Keep valuables with you, and bring small bills for taxis and tips on the islands.

Food & Drinks: Eat before you board. No food or drink consumption is allowed on the ferry. Finish snacks or coffee in the terminal (there’s a snack bar at Ceiba). Once on the islands, local cafés are easy to find near the ports.

Bringing Pets: Pets are allowed but must be in carriers. Leashed animals without crates will be denied boarding. Buy a pet ticket in advance (usually a few dollars). Bring calming items or mild sedatives if your pet is anxious — the enclosed cabin can be stressful.

Accessibility: Ferries and terminals are ADA-compliant, with ramps, restrooms, and seating. Arrive early and let staff know if you need assistance — priority boarding is available for seniors and those with disabilities.

Local Etiquette: Remember, these ferries are essential transport for island residents. Expect locals to board first if they have priority IDs. Be patient in line, don’t cut, and show courtesy. Everyone ends up on the same boat — literally and figuratively.

Weather Tips: Ferry rides are best on calm, sunny days. Bad weather may cancel service — check forecasts and reschedule if needed. Mornings are often smoother than afternoons. If you stand on deck, wear sunscreen — even 30 minutes of Caribbean sun hits hard.

COVID-19 Note: No masks or proof of vaccination are currently required. Ferry travel operates like standard public transit. Check local sites before your trip for any updates.

Alternative Option: Flying to Vieques or Culebra

If you’re short on time or prefer to skip the ferry, consider flying to the islands. Small planes hop between the main island and Vieques/Culebra daily. The flights are quick – about 25 minutes to Vieques and 30 minutes to Culebra from San Juan (even shorter, ~10-15 minutes, if flying from Ceiba’s little airport). 

Several regional airlines offer services, including Vieques Air Link, Cape Air, and others. You can fly out of San Juan International (SJU) or the smaller Isla Grande Airport (SIG/TJIG) in San Juan, or from the José Aponte de la Torre Airport (RVR) in Ceiba. Many travelers opt to fly one-way and ferry the other, to experience both. For example, you could fly to Culebra in the morning for maximum time on Flamenco Beach, then ferry back in the evening (enjoying a sunset ride).

Ultimate Airport Guide: For more details on flying – including airports on Vieques (VQS) and Culebra (CPX), airlines, and tips – check out our Complete Guide to Puerto Rico’s Airports.

Guided Tours and Private Boat Options

If you’d rather not deal with transportation logistics at all, there are boat tours and charters that can take you to Culebra or Vieques as a curated day trip. Tour operators (mostly based in Fajardo/Ceiba on the east coast) offer excursions where they handle the boat ride, gear, and even meals, so you can just relax. This is a more expensive option than the public ferry, but you get additional activities like snorkeling at secluded spots, beach barbecues, etc.

Click to read more about boat tours & private charters

One highly-rated operator is Pure Adventure PR, which runs boat tours to Vieques and Culebra. For example, Pure Adventure’s high-speed boat can whisk you from Ceiba to Vieques in about 30 minutes for a day of snorkeling and beach exploration. These tours often include snorkel gear, guided marine tours (they sometimes have marine biologist guides), and visits to areas the ferry won’t get you to.

On Culebra tours, you might stop at Flamenco Beach and offshore reefs; on Vieques tours, you might snorkel at a beautiful reserve on the remote west coast of the island. Drinks and lunch are typically included, making it a fun, all-inclusive day trip.

Tour companies provide the boat transport, so you don’t need ferry tickets at all – you’d meet them at a marina (they’ll tell you where, often Fajardo or Ceiba) and they take care of the rest. If you’re looking for a more personalized or effortless experience, these charters can be a great option. You’ll avoid the crowds and scheduling of the ferry and enjoy a guided adventure instead.

Of course, the price is much higher (expect ~$100–$200 per person depending on the tour), but many travelers say the experience is worth it for a special day.

(Pure Adventure PR is one example, known for excellent snorkeling tours. There are others as well, such as catamaran trips to Culebra’s beaches. You can find and book these through sites like ours or the Island Activities tour listings.)

Courtesy // Pure Adventures

Final Thoughts

Taking the ferry from Ceiba to Vieques or Culebra is not only budget-friendly, it’s also a chance to rub shoulders with locals and enjoy a short scenic voyage in the Caribbean Sea. Sure, it requires a bit of planning – getting up early, securing tickets, and being flexible – but with the tips in this guide, you should feel well-prepared. Vieques and Culebra are absolutely worth the journey. Vieques offers lush landscapes, wild horses roaming, and the magical Mosquito Bay (the brightest bioluminescent bay in the world), while Culebra boasts that world-famous Flamenco Beach with its iconic rusted tanks and pristine white sand. Whether you choose to ferry across or fly above, your time on these islands will be filled with unforgettable moments.

In the end, the ferry is more than just a mode of transport – it’s part of the Puerto Rico adventure. Embrace it, chat with fellow travelers in line, enjoy the ocean breeze on deck, and get ready to experience island life on Vieques or Culebra. ¡Buen viaje! 🌴