Ferry to Culebra and Vieques: The Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about taking the ferry from Ceiba
OVERVIEW
Taking the ferry to Culebra or Vieques is one of the best parts of a Puerto Rico trip. It's affordable, scenic, and gets you to two of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean.
This guide covers everything you need to know: where to depart from, schedules, pricing, and what to expect when you arrive.
First Things First: The Ferry Leaves from Ceiba, Not Fajardo
If you've been searching for the ferry from Fajardo to Culebra or the Fajardo to Vieques ferry, here's an important update: the terminal moved. The Puerto Rico Ferry now operates out of the Ceiba Ferry Terminal, located on the grounds of the former Roosevelt Roads Naval Station, at:
Marina Dr. Roosevelt Roads, Ceiba, PR 00735
Fajardo is no longer a ferry departure point. If your GPS is taking you to Fajardo, correct your route to Ceiba before you head out.
Ferry Routes: What's Available
TWO ISLANDS To Choose From
Puerto Rico Ferry, operated by HMS Ferries, runs two island routes out of Ceiba; One to Vieques and another to Culebra
Ceiba to Culebra
The ride takes about 1.5 hours. Culebra is famous for Flamenco Beach, world-class snorkeling, and its laid-back vibe.
Ceiba to Vieques
A shorter 1-hour crossing. Vieques is home to Mosquito Bay (an amazing bio bay), wild horses roaming the beaches, and pristine stretches of sand with almost no crowds.
Culebra Terminal
Vieques Terminal
Ferry schedules
STAY UP TO DATE
Schedules change seasonally and should always be confirmed on the official site before your trip. Current timetables are posted at puertoricoferry.com.
You can also download the City Experiences app (iOS / Android) to view live schedules, track your ferry in real time, and store your tickets.
FERRY COSTS AND FEES
Passenger fares are set by the Government of Puerto Rico and are very affordable. All prices below are one-way per person.
Note: Free tickets for babies and seniors 75+ are only available at the terminal ticket window -- they cannot be purchased online.
Ticket costs
| Passenger Type | Ceiba to Vieques | Ceiba to Culebra |
|---|---|---|
| Babies (0-3 years) | Free | Free |
| Youth (4-12 years) | $1.00 | $1.00 |
| Adults (13-59 years) | $2.00 | $2.25 |
| Seniors (60-74 years) | $1.00 | $1.00 |
| Seniors (75+) | Free | Free |
item fees
| Item | Cost Per Item |
|---|---|
| Beach cooler | $2.00 |
| Beach chair | $1.00 |
| Beach umbrella | $1.00 |
| Surfboard | $6.00 |
| Bodyboard | $3.00 |
| Bicycle | $2.00 |
| Caged pet | $2.00 |
How to Buy Ferry Tickets
You have three options:
- Online at puertoricoferry.com
- City Experiences app (iOS or Android)
- In person at the Ceiba terminal ticket window
Advance purchase is not required, but it is strongly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays. Non-residents can only purchase tickets in advance online or through the app. Additional tickets are released at the window on the day of departure, but availability is not guaranteed.
Limit: Up to 5 tickets per transaction.
Refund policy: All sales are final. No refunds. You can transfer your ticket to a different departure time up to 1 hour before your scheduled sailing (transfers are allowed up to 2 times).
Getting to the Ferry Terminal
The Ceiba terminal is about 45 minutes east of San Juan. Here are a few options for getting there:
Drive and park: Parking is available at the terminal. This is the most flexible option if you're renting a car.
Taxi / rideshare: Uber and local taxis serve the route from San Juan. Budget roughly 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Ground transportation from the port: The ferry service offers shared ground transportation from the terminal to nearby towns.
One-way fares from Ceiba include Luquillo ($3.00), Fajardo ($3.00 carpool), and Rio Piedras ($9.00). Note: ground transport tickets are not available online -- purchase at the terminal.
What to Know Before You Go
Arrive early. You must arrive at the Ceiba ferry terminal at least 1 hour before departure. Boarding closes 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time. Cutting it close is a real risk -- the ferry will leave without you.
Priority boarding is given to pregnant women, seniors (60+), people with disabilities, veterans, and island residents. Passengers with tickets purchased at puertoricoferry.com board before those who bought at the window.
Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
Pets are welcome if crated. Service animals ride free; use the "additional" option during checkout.
Tickets are transferable. If your plans change, you can move your ticket to a later sailing (at least 1 hour before departure, up to 2 times). After that, no refunds are given.
Activities to Do on Culebra and Vieques
Culebra
Culebra is made for beach lovers. Flamenco Beach consistently ranks among the best beaches in the world. With that said, if you're interested in doing more than sunbathing, check out some of the great activities the Culebra has to offer:
SNORKEL IN CULEBRA WITH TURTLES
INTRO TO SURFING - GROUP LESSON
Vieques
Vieques delivers one of the most unique experiences in all of Puerto Rico: Mosquito Bay, the world's brightest bioluminescent bay. A guided bio bay kayak tour here is absolutely worth booking! These tend to sell out quickly, so we highly recommend booking in advance:
GUIDED CLEAR BOTTOM KAYAK BIO BAY TOUR
SCENIC OFFROAD UTV ADVENTURE
FAQS
Is there a ferry from Vieques to Culebra?
Yes, but it's limited: the Vieques to Culebra route only runs on the last Sunday of each month, not daily like the Ceiba routes. Adult fare is $2.00 each way. On any other day, you'll need to route through Ceiba (Vieques to Ceiba, then Ceiba to Culebra).
How long is the ferry ride from Ceiba to Culebra?
About 1.5 hours.
How long is the ferry ride from Ceiba to Vieques?
About 1 hour.
What is the ferry schedule?
Schedules change seasonally. Check the current timetable at puertoricoferry.com or through the City Experiences app.
Is the ferry worth it vs. flying?
For most visitors, yes. Flights to Vieques and Culebra are available (via small prop planes out of San Juan or Ceiba airport), but the ferry is far cheaper and the crossing is part of the experience. If time is tight or you're prone to seasickness on rougher days, a short flight may be worth considering.
Can you bring a car?
At this time, vehicles can only be brought onboard if owned by a resident of Vieques or Culebra. Tourists cannot bring a rental car on the ferry.
Plan on renting a golf cart, UTV, or bicycle once you arrive on the island.