How to Get to St Thomas. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Airport and Flights

Major Airports & Airlines

Cyril E. King Airport (STT) is the main airport on St. Thomas. It is a modern, compact facility positioned on the western side of the island, near Charlotte Amalie. STT handles domestic flights from the U.S. Mainland and inter-island flights.

Airlines to STT

Aa, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines.
Spirit Airlines, Frontier Airlines, JetBlue Airways.
Cape Air for regional and inter-island travel to St. Croix and San Juan.

Direct Flight Options

While St. Thomas does not have direct flights from international cities outside the U.S., it has direct connections from numerous major U.S. Cities. These metropolises serve as convenient hubs for international travelers.

Common Direct Routes

Atlanta (ATL), Boston (BOS), Charlotte (CLT).
Chicago (ORD), Dallas/Cowtown (DFW), Fort Lauderdale (FLL).
Miami (MIA), New York (JFK, EWR), Orlando (MCO), Philadelphia (PHL), Washington D.C. (IAD).

Seasonal Pricing

Flight frequency and prices generally rise during the high season (December-May), which includes major holidays.

Lower Fares

During the quiet period (September-November), fares tend to be lower, with potentially fewer non-stop flight choices.

Best Deals

Using airfare comparison websites like Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner aids in finding competitive prices.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

STT Airport Services

Car rental desks for major agencies.
Taxi stands outside the baggage claim area.
Duty-free shops plus some dining options.
Restrooms, ATMs, and fundamental traveler information.

Transfer Options

Taxis are readily available; fares are set by the USVI Taxi Commission.
Numerous larger resorts offer pre-arranged shuttle services.
Rental car agencies have counters at the airport; DiscoverCars.com for rental options.
Check the fares with taxi drivers before starting your trip.

Efficiency at STT

Compact & Modern

Cyril E. King Airport (STT) is a compact and modern facility. It focuses on efficient processing for travelers.

Location

The airport's place on the western side of the island positions it close to the capital, Charlotte Amalie, for quick access.

Connectivity

The airport handles flights from major U.S. Cities and inter-isconnections by land, making it a hub for regional travel.

Land Transportation

Local Transport Options

St. Thomas, being an island, does not have land borders or train services. Public transportation mainly uses shared taxi vans.

Safari Taxis

Open-air communal vans operate along main roads.
They pick up and drop off passengers along fixed routes.
An affordable way to get around on major routes.

Self-Driving Considerations

Renting a car offers independence on St. Thomas but comes with specific considerations due to local road conditions.

Driving Rules & Roads

Traffic moves on the left side of the road, despite most rental cars being left-hand drive.
Roads can be steep, winding, narrow, and sometimes have bumpy surfaces.
Be vigilant for pedestrians and limited road signage. A GPS device like a Garmin DriveSmart 66 GPS Navigator is advised.

Rental Requirements

A current US.S. Driver'a driver's license is accepted. International visitors with non-English licenses may need an International Driving Permit (IDP).

Car Rental Specifics

Minimum age for rental is typically 25, some companies may rent to 21-24 with an extra fee.
A major credit card is needed for a security deposit.
Booking your rental car in advance is highly advised, especially during peak season.

Driving Safety

Reckless driving is not uncommon. Locals often use horns as a friendly warning or greeting. Always wear your seatbelt, as it is mandatory. Avoid driving after consuming alcohol.

Road Rules

Speed limits are typically low, ranging from 20-35 mph.
Parking can be challenging, specifically in downtown Charlotte Amalie. Paid lots are available.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are very limited and generally not advised for unfamiliar tourists due to road conditions.

Important Driving Notes

Left-hand road laws apply, requiring vigilance for drivers from right-hand traffic countries.
Roads may be steep, winding, and narrow with uneven surfaces; exercise caution.
Be prepared for reckless driving styles; horns are used frequently for various communications.

Limited road signage can make navigation challenging without GPS.
Motorcycle and scooter rentals are not generally advised due to the difficult terrain and traffic.
Always park legally to avoid tickets or towing.

Sea/River Arrivals

Ferry Services

Ferry services connect St. Thomas to neighboring islands, catering to each of local commuters and tourists.

Inter-Island Connections

Passenger ferries to St. John (Cruz Bay) depart frequently from Red Hook (approx. 20 min, ~$8.15 one-way).
Car barges also operate from Red Hook, making it possible to take a rental car to St. John.
Ferry service for the British The The virgin islands archipelago archipelago (Tortola, Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke) from Charlotte Amalie and Red Hook; a valid passport is needed for BVI entry and USVI re-entry.

Cruise Ports & Immigration

St. Thomas hosts two main cruise ship terminals. River transportation options are not applicable to the island.

Cruise Ship Terminals

Havensight Cruise Ship Dock, close to Charlotte Amalie, provides easy access to duty-free shopping.
Crown Bay Cruise Ship Terminal, west of Charlotte Amalie, also has shops and amenities.
For non-U.S. Citizens arriving by ferry from the BVI, standard U.S. Border security checks happen upon re-entry.

Passport for BVI

A valid passport is needed for all travelers entering the BVI and re-entering the USVI.

Immigration Procedures

Be prepared for immigration procedures in both ends of an overseas ferry trips.

Land Connections

Taxis can be readily obtained at all ferry terminals and sailing ports for continuing your journey.

Departure Information

Departure Timing

Thomas departure.

Recommended Arrival Times at STT

Domestic Flights (to U.S. Mainland): Be there at LEAST 1.5 to 2 hours before scheduled departure.
International Flights (e.g., to The Island of enchantment for onward connection): Arrive 2 to 3 hours before departure.
This allows ample time for check-in, security screening, and any unforeseen delays.

Exit Fees & Procedures

All airport departure taxes and fees are typically included in the airline ticket price for flights leaving from Cyril E. King Airport (STT). You generally will not pay one more fee at the airport upon departure.

Departure Process

Standard TSA security screening procedures apply at STT. Have your boarding pass and valid ID ready.
STT offers limited dining and shopping once past security. A duty-free shop is available for last-minute purchases.
Free Wi-Fi is available in the the station for departing travelers.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Final Checks

Confirm flight status and check-in online when obtainable.

Documents Ready

Keep boarding pass and valid ID easily accessible for security.

Airport Amenities

Consider dining before security if more options are desired.

Smooth Departure

Departing St. Thomas involves typical airport procedures.

How to Get to St Thomas