Both will get you across the Anguilla Channel. They are not the same trip. Here is the honest side-by-side — on time, schedule, comfort, luggage and cost — so you can pick the one that actually fits your day.
A scheduled crossing shared with other passengers. Buy a ticket, show up at the terminal, leave when the ferry leaves. Fine for a solo traveller travelling light who can bend to the timetable.
A boat booked for your group alone. Villa or airport pickup, no terminal, no other passengers, departure on your timing. The trip becomes part of the holiday rather than a transfer to endure.
Ferry figures are indicative and vary by operator and season — always check the operator's official page. Private-boat figures are how we run it.
| What matters | Public ferry | Private boat |
|---|---|---|
| Crossing time | 30–45 min on the water, plus terminal check-in and boarding before that. | About 40 min dock to dock. No queue, no boarding window. |
| Schedule | Fixed daily departures. You plan your day around the timetable. | You set the time. The boat leaves when your group is ready. |
| Door-to-dock | Terminal to terminal. You arrange your own transport on both ends. | Included. Mercedes van or Suburban from villa, hotel or SXM airport. |
| Luggage | Limited allowance, handled in a shared hold, out of your sight. | Loaded with you. Suitcases, golf bags, strollers — within reason, no drama. |
| Who is on board | A shared cabin with every other passenger that day. | Only your group. Open deck, open bar, your own music. |
| Weather changes | Runs or cancels on the operator's call. Rebooking is on you. | The captain reschedules around you at no charge, or refunds in full. |
| SXM airport connection | Get yourself from the airport to the ferry terminal first. | We meet your flight and run you straight through to Gustavia. |
| Cost logic | Priced per person — efficient for one or two travellers. | Priced per boat — the more of you, the better it works. From €1,600 one way. |
Use the transfer calculator to see the per-boat and per-guest price for your group, or message us for an exact quote within 2 hours.
Going deeper? Read the full St Barth ferry alternative guide, the complete ferry guide with operators and schedules, or every option compared.