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- Ferry vs Private Boat to Anguilla: Which Option Is Better from St Martin?
COMPARISON
Ferry vs private boat to Anguilla: Which option is better from St Maarten St Martin?
If you’re planning a day trip from St Martin to Anguilla, one of the key decisions is how to get there.
Most travelers choose between the public ferry from Marigot and a private boat transfer departing from Simpson Bay or nearby marinas.
Both options work — but they offer very different experiences in terms of cost, comfort, flexibility, and overall travel time.
In most cases, the ferry is best for budget-conscious travelers, while private boat transfers are preferred by families and groups looking for a faster and more seamless experience.
Quick answer
- The ferry is the lowest-cost way to reach Anguilla
- A private boat transfer is faster and more flexible
- Families and groups often prefer private boats
- The ferry involves more steps and waiting at immigration
- Private boats offer a more direct and comfortable experience
Ferry vs private boat to Anguilla: Side-by-side comparison
Cost
Ferry
Lower per-person cost
Private boat
Higher total cost, but shared across the group
Travel time
Ferry
About 20 minutes on the water, but usually 60–90 minutes total including immigration
Private boat
About 20 minutes on the water and typically 30–45 minutes total
Departure flexibility
Ferry
Fixed schedule
Private boat
Custom departure times
Immigration process
Ferry
Terminal queues and multiple steps
Private boat
Handled dockside, usually faster and simpler
Comfort
Ferry
Fine for most travelers, but less flexible if conditions are choppy
Private boat
Usually smoother and more comfortable, especially for families
Best for
Ferry
Couples, solo travelers, lower-cost trips
Private boat
Families, groups, villa guests, comfort-focused travelers
Best for quick reference:
• Ferry → best for lower cost
• Private boat → best for comfort, flexibility, and groups
Choose the ferry if
• You are traveling solo or as a couple
• You want the lowest-cost option
• Fixed departure times suit your plans
• You don’t mind going through terminal immigration
The ferry works well for many visitors, especially those staying near Marigot or Grand Case.
Choose a private boat if
• You want a faster, more seamless experience
• You are traveling as a family or group
• You prefer avoiding queues and terminals
• You want flexibility on departure time
Private transfers are particularly popular with villa guests and groups looking for a smoother travel day.
Explore private boat options to Anguilla
Cost expectations
The ferry is generally the most economical way to reach Anguilla.
Ferry
- Lower per-person ticket cost
- Anguilla customs and departure taxes are paid separately
- Taxi transfers may be required depending on your location
Private boat transfer
- Total price depends on boat size and group size
- More expensive overall, but shared across the group
- For groups of 4–8 people, the difference per person becomes smaller
Private transfers also reduce time and simplify logistics, which many travelers value.
What the ferry process actually looks like
- Travel to the Marigot ferry terminal
- Check in and wait for boarding
- Pass through exit immigration
- Take the 20-minute crossing
- Clear Anguilla immigration on arrival
Total time is often 60–90 minutes depending on queues.
What a private boat transfer looks like
- Arrive at the marina (several options available)
- Board the boat
- Cross to Anguilla in about 20 minutes
- Complete immigration at the dock
The experience is typically more direct and less time-consuming.
Weather and sea conditions
The crossing between St Martin and Anguilla is usually straightforward, but conditions can vary depending on wind and swell.
The ferry runs on schedule, even when conditions are slightly choppy.
Private boats offer more flexibility and can sometimes adjust timing based on conditions.
When seas are rough, captains may recommend adjusting departure times.
Common mistakes travelers make
• Not budgeting for Anguilla customs fees
• Assuming the ferry is always faster
• Booking too late during peak season
• Underestimating immigration wait times
What we recommend for most travelers
For couples or solo travelers, the ferry is often the simplest and most economical choice.
For families, groups, and travelers staying in villas, private boat transfers usually provide a smoother and more efficient experience.
Some travelers choose a full-day private boat charter that includes Anguilla, combining transport with a full day on the water.
Prefer a private boat instead?
If you’re leaning toward a private transfer to Anguilla, we can help you find the right boat based on your group size, dates, and conditions.
We work with a small number of trusted local captains and keep the process simple.
FAQ
Conditions vary. Most crossings are manageable, but choppy days can feel uncomfortable.
The crossing itself is about 20 minutes, but total time depends on immigration and waiting.
Yes, immigration is usually handled at the dock in Anguilla.
Yes, the ferry is the lowest-cost option per person.
Yes, but many families prefer private boats for comfort and flexibility.
This comparison is based on how transfers actually operate between St Maarten and Anguilla, including real travel times, immigration steps, and typical conditions.
Choose the right experience
We’ll help you choose the best option based on your group, timing, and what you want from the day.
Half-day charters
Short, flexible trips with time to swim and explore
Full-day charters
A full day on the water with time to explore and relax
What guests say about booking with EXPLR.SX
Real feedback from guests who trusted EXPLR.SX to plan their time in St Maarten — from private boat charters to island day trips.
- Chelsey
- March 2026
- USA
- Verified Guest
- Helene
- April 2026
- Canada
- Verified Guest
- Kristen
- April 2026
- USA
- Verified Guest
Still exploring your options?
Browse all private charter options available in St Martin / St Maarten.
Related guides
Compare the best boat options, transfers, and experiences in St Martin and Anguilla. These guides help you choose the right option based on your trip, group size, and preferences. Clear, calm, helpful.
