Some cruise itineraries start or end in St. Thomas, meaning passengers need to get from the cruise port to Cyril E. King Airport (STT) or vice versa. Here is a guide to one-way transportation between the cruise port and airport with a rental car.
Understanding the Scenario
One-way rental scenarios on St. Thomas typically involve:
- Embarkation: Flying into STT, picking up a rental car, and dropping it off near the cruise port before embarkation
- Disembarkation: Picking up a rental car near the cruise port after disembarkation and returning it at the airport before flying out
The Reality at STT
Important: All three rental brands — Alamo, Enterprise, and National — operate from a single facility at Cyril E. King Airport (STT). There is no separate rental location at the cruise port. All rentals are round-trip from the airport facility.
Embarkation: Airport to Cruise Port
If you are flying in and then embarking on a cruise:
- Pick up your rental car at the STT facility
- Use the car to explore St. Thomas before your cruise (if time allows)
- Return the car to the STT facility
- Take a taxi from the rental facility to the cruise terminal
Disembarkation: Cruise Port to Airport
If you are disembarking and then flying out:
- Take a taxi from the cruise terminal to the STT rental facility
- Pick up your rental car
- Use the car to explore St. Thomas before your flight (if time allows)
- Return the car to the STT facility
- Take the shuttle or walk to the terminal for your flight
Taxi Between Port and Airport
Taxis are readily available at both the cruise terminals and the airport:
- Ride time: 5-10 minutes
- Cost: Moderate, per person
- Taxis are typically vans or open-air safari vehicles
Planning Your Time
If you have time between your cruise and flight (or vice versa):
- Half day (4 hours): Quick visit to Magens Bay or Charlotte Amalie
- Full day (6-8 hours): Beach, sightseeing, and lunch
- Overnight: Explore St. Thomas at a relaxed pace
Tips for Embarkation/Disembarkation Rentals
- Book your rental in advance
- Coordinate pickup and return times with your cruise and flight schedules
- Allow 2 hours buffer before cruise departure or flight check-in
- Join a loyalty program for faster service
- Consider luggage storage if you want to explore without bags
Luggage Considerations
If you have lots of luggage:
- Choose a vehicle with adequate cargo space
- Keep luggage secure and out of sight when parked
- Consider storing luggage at the airport or cruise terminal if available
Alternative: Skip the Rental
If you have limited time between your cruise and flight, consider skipping the rental and taking a taxi directly between the port and airport. This eliminates the rental pickup and return process.
