Puerto Rico Ferry: Everything You Need to Know Before You Ride

Visiting Puerto Rico and thinking about hopping over to one of its beautiful islands like Vieques or Culebra? Taking the Puerto Rico ferry is one of the most affordable and scenic ways to get there—but if you’re not prepared, the process can be confusing.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the Puerto Rico ferry system, from schedules and prices to insider tips, and even some luxury alternatives if you’re looking to elevate your trip. Whether you’re planning a solo adventure, family vacation, or romantic escape, we’ve got you covered.

What Is the Puerto Rico Ferry?

The Puerto Rico ferry, operated by the Puerto Rico Maritime Transportation Authority (ATM), connects the main island to popular offshore destinations such as:

• Vieques – Famous for its bioluminescent bay and wild horses.

• Culebra – Known for Flamenco Beach, often ranked among the best in the world.

The Puerto Rico ferry departs primarily from Ceiba, located on the east coast of the island, about an hour from San Juan by car.

Puerto Rico Ferry Routes

Currently, the main routes include:

• Ceiba to Vieques

• Ceiba to Culebra

Both islands are ideal for day trips or overnight stays, and the Puerto Rico ferry makes it accessible even for budget travelers.

Puerto Rico Ferry Schedule (As of 2025)

Schedules can change seasonally, but you’ll typically find:

• Ceiba to Vieques: Multiple trips per day, starting as early as 6:00 AM.

• Ceiba to Culebra: Fewer trips per day, often between 7:30 AM and 5:00 PM.

⏰ Pro Tip: Arrive at least 1 hour early, especially on weekends and holidays.

Always double-check your Puerto Rico ferry schedule the night before your trip to avoid surprises. For the latest updates, visit puertoricoferry.com or use the official City Experiences app.

How to Book Puerto Rico Ferry Tickets

💻 Online Booking

Visit puertoricoferry.com or download the City Experiences app. Booking your Puerto Rico ferry ticket online is the easiest way to guarantee your seat and avoid long lines or ticket shortages—especially for Culebra.

🎟️ Ticket Prices

Destination	Adult (One-Way)	Child (3–11)	Senior (60+)
Ceiba to Vieques	$2.00	$1.00	$1.00
Ceiba to Culebra	$2.25	$1.00	$1.00

Yes, it’s that cheap!

🚗 Bringing a car? You’ll need to use the cargo ferry and make a reservation in advance, but most travelers opt to rent a car on the island instead.

Ferry Tips for a Smooth Experience

These simple tips can make your Puerto Rico ferry experience smoother and stress-free:

• Bring cash – Just in case the card machines go down.

• Pack light – You’ll carry your own luggage on and off.

• Prepare for motion sickness – The waters can get choppy, especially heading to Culebra.

• Check the weather – High winds or storms can cancel ferry trips with little notice.

• Charge devices – There are limited power sources available onboard.

Puerto Rico Ferry vs Plane: Which Should You Choose?

While the Puerto Rico ferry is budget-friendly, flying from San Juan to the islands is an option for those short on time.

Factor	Ferry	Plane (Small Regional Flights)
Price	Very cheap	$100+ per person
Travel Time	1.5–2 hours total	~25-minute flight
Flexibility	Limited schedule	More frequent flights

🚤 Want a more exclusive option? Keep reading for luxury ferry alternatives below.

Luxury Alternatives to the Ferry

If you're looking for a more upscale or private experience, ConquistadorTravels offers unforgettable tours that remove all the stress of ferry schedules and planning. Our most popular ferry-free tour options include:

🌴 Culebra Snorkeling & Beach Day Trip

Skip the Puerto Rico ferry chaos and sail to Culebra in style on a private catamaran. Includes:

• Snorkeling gear

• BBQ lunch

• Open bar

• Stops at top beaches like Flamenco or Tamarindo

⛵ Icacos Sailing Catamaran Snorkeling Tour

Departing from Fajardo, this tour is perfect for those who want a relaxing day on crystal-clear waters without ever worrying about ferry tickets.

✅ Book with us at ConquistadorTravels.com for a seamless, unforgettable adventure.

What to Do on Vieques & Culebra

🌊 Vieques Highlights:

• Mosquito Bay – Brightest bioluminescent bay in the world.

• Wild Horse Watching – Yes, they roam freely!

• Sun Bay Beach – Calm waters and minimal crowds.

🏖️ Culebra Highlights:

• Flamenco Beach – One of the most photographed beaches in the world.

• Tamarindo Beach – Ideal for snorkeling.

• Carlos Rosario Beach – A quiet snorkeler's paradise.

If you're not sure how to get around once you arrive, don’t worry. We’ll help you with rental car recommendations, private transfers, or even custom island tour itineraries—just contact us through ConquistadorTravels.com.

Is the Puerto Rico Ferry Kid-Friendly?

Absolutely. Kids will love the boat ride, the ocean breeze, and the island activities. Just bring snacks, water, and entertainment in case of delays. The Puerto Rico ferry is generally safe and comfortable for families traveling with children.

Frequently Asked Questions

❓ Can I bring pets on the ferry?

Yes, but they must be in a carrier. The Puerto Rico ferry follows strict safety and cleanliness policies.

❓ Is the ferry wheelchair accessible?

Yes, but it’s best to contact the ferry terminal in advance for assistance.

❓ Do I need a passport to go to Vieques or Culebra?

Nope! These are part of Puerto Rico, which is a U.S. territory—no passport needed for U.S. citizens taking the Puerto Rico ferry.

❓ Is there Wi-Fi on the Puerto Rico ferry?

No, Wi-Fi is not guaranteed on board, so download entertainment or maps beforehand.

Final Thoughts: Should You Take the Puerto Rico Ferry?

If you’re a budget-conscious traveler and don’t mind a little unpredictability, the Puerto Rico ferry is a great way to explore the nearby islands. But if you’re looking for comfort, ease, and a full-service experience, book a luxury tour with us instead.

At ConquistadorTravels, we turn your island dreams into reality—no ferry ticket needed. Check out our most popular island excursions and reserve your spot before they sell out.

🔗 Ready for adventure? Click here to explore our tours