Speedy's

a year ago

If you’re traveling to or from Virgin Gorda, you’ll quickly discover that Speedy’s Ferry Service is not just a transportation company — it’s part of the island’s heartbeat. This locally owned, family-run operation has been connecting Virgin Gorda with Tortola and the wider British Virgin Islands for decades, and the care, reliability, and warmth that come with that experience show in every trip. It’s the kind of service that reminds you why the BVI has such a reputation for hospitality — friendly, efficient, and deeply rooted in the community. From the moment you arrive at the dock, you feel like you’re in good hands. The staff at the ticket counter are welcoming, helpful, and always ready to answer questions — whether you’re a first-time visitor trying to figure out schedules, or a returning traveler who already knows which seat has the best breeze. Everything runs with a relaxed island rhythm, but also with real organization. Tickets are easy to purchase in person or online, and check-in is straightforward. They make it clear where to go and when boarding starts, and they’ll even help with bags or give you tips on timing your connection with taxis or flights. The boats themselves are comfortable, fast, and clean, with both open-air decks for soaking in the scenery and covered cabins for when the wind or sun gets strong. Seating is first-come, first-served, and there’s hardly a bad spot on board — whether you’re watching the turquoise water glide by or snapping photos of the surrounding islands. The trip between Tortola and Virgin Gorda takes around 30 minutes, and it’s one of those rare journeys where the ride itself becomes part of the experience. You pass through some of the most beautiful seascapes in the Caribbean: deep blue channels, scattered cays, and the dramatic silhouettes of the islands rising from the water. One of Speedy’s biggest strengths is its reliability. In an area where inter-island travel can sometimes depend on weather or inconsistent operators, Speedy’s has earned a reputation for punctuality and professionalism. Boats generally leave right on schedule, and they keep you informed if there’s a delay or change. The captains are skilled and confident, handling the vessels smoothly even when the sea gets choppy. There’s a reassuring sense that everyone involved knows exactly what they’re doing — from the crew tying off lines at the dock to the ticket agents coordinating transfers. If you’re coming from Beef Island (EIS airport) or staying on Tortola, the connection to Speedy’s is incredibly convenient. They even offer combination taxi and ferry packages, so you can step off your flight and be on Virgin Gorda in less than an hour without worrying about multiple bookings. For those staying longer, Speedy’s also runs car rentals on Virgin Gorda, meaning you can arrange your entire arrival — ferry, pickup, and vehicle — all through the same trusted company. That’s the kind of thoughtful, local integration that turns what could be a stressful travel day into something effortless. Customer service deserves special mention. The people who work for Speedy’s are consistently kind, patient, and genuinely proud of their island. They’ll chat with you about where to go, which beaches are calmest that day, or what restaurants to try. They’ll remember returning faces and greet you like an old friend. That level of personal connection is rare these days and goes a long way toward making visitors feel welcome. The pricing is reasonable, especially considering the quality of the boats and the convenience of the routes. You can pay by card or cash, and if you’re staying for a while, round-trip tickets or frequent traveler passes can save a bit. The company clearly values both tourists and locals — they’ve managed to keep a balance between professionalism and community spirit.

8 months ago

Very unorganized. We went to the ferry terminal thinking we were gonna catch the ferry from Road Town to Virgin Gorda. But instead we took a 30 minute bus ride to Beef Town and then waited an hour to get on the ferry to Virgin Gorda. Once we were there they had buses waiting for us to take us to the Baths which was nice. There was some confusion because we were told the ferry back was at 3:30 but then we were told 3pm. When we were leaving, they had us get the bus but then made us all get off for another group. Then once we finally got back to the ferry, we were told to get on. Someone on the ferry made us get off cause we had the wrong color wristband. And we had to wait another 15 mins for a ferry that we were allowed to get on. Theres no clue directions with this company and like I said very unorganized

3 months ago

I would not use Speedy's again, especially as a cruise passenger. The first problem was simply finding the company. There was no signage at the cruise port and no representative directing passengers where to go. We spent nearly an hour trying to find the location, asking three different locals for help. Thankfully, one very kind local woman walked us to the pickup area. The walk from the port was about 10 minutes and required crossing a grassy area, stepping over a broken pallet, and walking through a parking lot with moving vehicles. The website advertises a $70 package that includes the ferry, lunch, and taxi transportation to and from the Virgin Gorda Baths. When we arrived, we were quoted $50 instead, and when I asked about the advertised lunch package, the employee seemed confused and acted like she didn't know what I was referring to. Once we reached Virgin Gorda, there was very little direction on where to find the taxis. Many cruise passengers were left standing around confused while trying to figure out where to go, and some of the taxi drivers became impatient with people who were simply looking for instructions. The Baths are beautiful, but if your cruise ship arrives around 12:30 p.m., I honestly don't recommend trying to do this excursion independently. After spending almost an hour finding Speedy's, a 30-minute ferry ride, a 10-minute taxi ride, and the 40–45 minute hike through the Baths, we only had about 30–45 minutes to enjoy the beach before having to leave because the Baths close at 4:30 p.m. The return trip was extremely disorganized. There were well over 200 people waiting for a ferry that appeared to hold only around 75–100 passengers, causing everyone to rush toward the boat to avoid being left behind. Throughout the day, it also felt like local commuters were prioritized over paying tourists. Locals consistently boarded first while large groups of tourists waited, and when I asked to purchase a bottle of water after watching one be given to a local, I was told there wasn't any available. I completely understand serving your local community, but as a paying customer, the experience left me feeling like tourists were an afterthought. The Virgin Gorda Baths themselves are absolutely stunning and worth visiting, but Speedy's made what should have been an enjoyable day feel stressful, confusing, and poorly organized. Better signage at the port, clearer communication, improved crowd management, and more organized boarding would make a huge difference.

3 months ago

We just took Speedy's from Tortola (Road Town) to Virgin Gorda to do the Baths while in port during our cruise. They were right on schedule, if not a little early. We were able to board the ferry, then pay while on the ferry with our credit card. Just note that the roundtrip ticket for the Baths (including the taxi ride needed) is now $50 per adult (not $40 as listed on their website)! I was nervous based on other reviews I read on here, but everything went smoothly for us!

9 months ago

Absolutely one of the worst excursions by any measure. The people were simply rude and kept rushing us the whole way. We spent most of the time waiting in a trail surrounded by trees majority of the time with no view whatsoever to speak of. On top of that when we go to a beach or a view point they rushed us. So much the guide came to snap our phone away. I told the guy it’s not worth 400 dollars to which he said 400 is no money. Bunch of rude people with no regard to tourism. We booked via NCL shore excursions. We should have gone with viator or simply sat this one out. Total waster of time for a group of 40 people.DO NOT RECOMMEND. Save your time and money. GO to A BEACH instead