Puerto Rico Island Hopping
How to Get to Culebra and Vieques
Last updated: April 2026
Culebra and Vieques are two of Puerto Rico's most beautiful offshore islands, home to bioluminescent bays, world-class beaches, and a pace that feels a world away from San Juan. Getting there takes a little planning, but the trip is straightforward once you know your options. Here is everything you need to know about reaching both islands by ferry, flight, or water taxi.
Ferry from Ceiba
The public ferry is the most affordable way to reach both islands. It departs from the Ceiba Ferry Terminal at the former Roosevelt Roads Naval Base on Marina Drive.
Travel times
- Ceiba to Vieques: 35 - 45 minutes
- Ceiba to Culebra: approximately 55 minutes
Current fares (one-way)
| Passenger type | Price |
|---|---|
| Adults (ages 11 - 59) | $11.25 |
| Children (under 11) | $6.00 |
| Seniors (ages 60 - 74) | $1.00 |
| Seniors (75+) | Free |
Non-residents traveling to Culebra pay an additional $2 per person environmental fee.
How to book
Tickets can be purchased online at puertoricoferry.com, through the Puerto Rico Ferry mobile app, or at the ticket window at the Ceiba terminal. One small carry-on bag is included. Larger luggage, coolers, and bikes have additional fees.
Flights
Flying is the fastest and most reliable way to reach the islands. Flights take roughly 20 minutes from San Juan, skipping the ferry wait entirely.
Cape Air
- Routes: San Juan (SJU) to Culebra (CPX) and San Juan (SJU) to Vieques (VQS)
- Frequency: Daily year-round flights
- Flight time: approximately 20 minutes
- Prices: Vary by date. Check flights.capeair.com for current fares
Vieques Air Link
- Routes: Ceiba and San Juan (SJU) to Vieques (VQS) and Culebra (CPX)
- Frequency: 30+ daily flights across routes
- Aircraft: Cessna Caravans and Britten-Norman Islanders (6 - 9 passengers)
- Prices: Typically $75 - $150 one-way. Book at reservations.viequesairlink.com
Water Taxis and Charters
Private water taxis and charter boats offer a more flexible alternative. They're ideal if the ferry is sold out, you have a group, or you want to combine the crossing with snorkeling or sightseeing.
Popular operators
- Pure Adventure: USCG-certified 46-foot vessel with year-round service from Puerto Rico's eastern coast. Capacity for 48 passengers. pureadventurepr.com
- H2O Water Taxi: Daily service, locally owned. Also offers trips to Culebrita Island. h2owatertaxi.org
- Gammy's Water Tours: Approximately 20-minute crossings with snorkeling gear and beach equipment included. gammyswatertours.com
Quick Comparison
| Option | Time | Cost (one-way) | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ferry | 35 - 55 min | $6 - $11.25 | Budget travelers, families |
| Flight | ~20 min | $75 - $150 | Speed, reliability, tight schedules |
| Water taxi | 20 - 45 min | $75 - $150+ | Groups, sold-out ferries, combined tours |
Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Book the ferry early. Tickets often sell out 1 - 2 weeks ahead for weekends and holidays. Midweek travel is easier to book last-minute.
- Have a backup plan. Ferry cancellations happen due to weather or mechanical issues. Know the flight and water taxi options in case your ferry is canceled.
- Arrive early at Ceiba. The terminal recommends arriving 60 minutes before departure. Parking is available on-site for around $15 per day.
- Pack light. Both ferries and small aircraft have baggage restrictions. A carry-on and a small personal item are the safest bet.
- Bring cash. While card payments are accepted at the terminal and online, some water taxi operators and smaller vendors on the islands prefer cash.
- Check schedules the day before. Ferry and flight schedules can change seasonally. Confirm departure times at puertoricoferry.com or your airline's site.
- Stay near the terminal the night before. If you have an early morning ferry or flight from Ceiba, consider staying at a nearby STAYPR rental the night before to avoid the 1+ hour drive from San Juan.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I take my car on the ferry?
Vehicle ferry service is limited and often fully booked months in advance. Most visitors rent a golf cart or car on the island instead. Culebra is small enough to get around without a vehicle.
Which is better, Culebra or Vieques?
Both islands are worth visiting. Culebra is smaller and known for Flamenco Beach, consistently ranked among the best beaches in the world. Vieques is larger, offers more dining and nightlife, and is home to Mosquito Bay, one of the brightest bioluminescent bays on Earth. If you only have one day, Culebra is easier for a beach-focused day trip. For a longer stay, Vieques has more variety.
Is the ferry safe in rough weather?
The ferry operator cancels sailings when conditions are unsafe. Check the Puerto Rico Ferry website or app for real-time updates. If seas are rough, flights are typically unaffected and remain a reliable alternative.
How far in advance should I book ferry tickets?
For weekends and holidays, book at least two weeks in advance. Midweek tickets are easier to get last-minute, but booking a few days ahead is still recommended during peak season (December through April).
Can I visit Culebra or Vieques as a day trip?
Yes, day trips are possible by ferry or flight. For the best experience, take an early departure and return on an afternoon or evening sailing. Water taxi operators also offer day-trip packages that include beach time and snorkeling.
Where to Stay Before Your Island Trip
Heading to the Ceiba ferry terminal early? Skip the long drive from San Juan and stay at a STAYPR rental the night before. Our properties in eastern Puerto Rico put you minutes from the terminal - with full kitchens, free parking, and self check-in.