AS OF DEC. 1, 2019 DOLPHIN WATER TAXI INTERNATIONAL PROCESSING FEES ARE $65pp INTO THE BVI, and $40pp FROM THE BVI TO THE USVI
We often get questions about the "international processing fees" we charge here at Dolphin for guests travelling to and from the BVI. Years ago, it was simply referred to as "BVI customs fees". But then after security changes resulting from 9/11, and more governmental increases from both the BVI and the USVI, Dolphin started to use the more broad term of "International processing fees". Today, there are a half dozen different cost components that go into the collection of $65pp "inbound" to the BVI, and $40pp returning from the BVI to the USVI.
The most often asked question is, "Do we have to pay this if we take the public ferry?" The easy answer is, "yes, but not nearly as much", because the public ferrys get a pass on 3/4 of the inbound fees to the BVI and have guests pay only $20-25pp departure taxes on the return to the USVI". Other fees for visitors using the public ferry system travelling inbound are built into the ticket price.
All private operators have to pay different fees than the public ferry each time they enter and exit.
The variety of fees are broken down in part, as follows:
For Arrival to the BVI:
$16pp "BVI Cruising Permit Fee"
$10pp "BVI Environmental Fee"
$25pp document prep and filing fee
$14pp built into the cost of per boat entry fee, per guest wharfage departing the secure port in Red Hook, and BVI immigration processing fees.
For Returns from the BVI to the USVI:
$20 per person BVI departure tax
$8 per person USVI customs dock usage fee in St John and again in Red Hook.
$5 - 10 per boat entry fee to the US.
IMPORTANT:
NEW FOR 2019/2020 SEASON:
International Processing Fee has increased from $60 to $65 for inbound passengers (USVI traveling into BVI).
CANCELLATION POLICY:
There are no charges for trips cancelled due to weather or maintenance, or if we are unable to provide transport due to airline delays or cancelations. Cancellations are 100% refundable 72 hours in advance of travel. At 72 hours or less in advance of travel, all reservations are 100% non-refundable. Cancellations can ONLY be made by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., as this creates a cancellation record.