Terminal Location & When to Arrive
The Ceiba Ferry Terminal is located on Marina Drive, deep within the grounds of the former Roosevelt Roads Naval Base. The drive from San Juan typically takes between 75 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic and weather conditions.
Because you must check in at the terminal at least 1 hour prior to your departure, and gates close exactly 10 minutes before the ferry leaves, you must factor in time to park your car and walk to the ticketing area. We recommend arriving at the parking gates at least 90 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Can I take my rental car on the ferry?
No. Rental car companies in Puerto Rico strictly prohibit taking their vehicles on the cargo ferries to Vieques or Culebra. You must park your rental at the Ceiba terminal and rent a golf cart or Jeep once you arrive on the islands.
Parking Costs & Security Facilities
The primary parking facility at the Ceiba terminal is well-organized, strictly gated, and designed to accommodate overnight travelers.
$8–$15
Per 24 Hours
🚗
Gated Facility
🛡️
Staffed & Monitored
Payment: Be prepared to pay for your parking upon entry or exit depending on the current management system. It is highly recommended to carry cash in small denominations ($1, $5, $10 bills) as credit card machines can occasionally go down due to connectivity issues at the base.
Security: Is the parking lot safe? Yes. The lots are located within the old naval base bounds and are monitored by staff around the clock. However, standard travel precautions still apply: never leave valuables, luggage, or electronics visible in your car. Always lock your doors and roll up your windows.
The Overflow Parking Situation
Peak Season Warning
During major holidays, long weekends, and peak summer months, the primary lot directly adjacent to the terminal can fill up completely.
When the main lot is full, terminal staff will redirect you to designated overflow parking areas. These overflow lots are further away from the main terminal building. Depending on which overflow lot is in use, you may face a 10 to 15-minute walk in the tropical heat, or you may need to wait for a shuttle ride to the main gates.
If you are traveling with heavy luggage, children, or elderly family members, we recommend dropping them off with the bags at the terminal entrance first, and then having the driver proceed to the overflow lot.
Quick Tips for a Smooth Experience
Take a photo of your parking spot. After a multi-day trip to the islands, it's easy to forget exactly where you parked in the massive, sun-drenched lots.
Use the bathroom before leaving San Juan. While there are facilities at the terminal, you don't want to be rushing to find a restroom while trying to secure a parking spot and catch your boat.
Consider alternatives. If navigating the parking lot sounds stressful, you can hire a taxi, an Uber, or a private shuttle service from San Juan directly to the terminal drop-off zone.
Have Your Parking Sorted, But No Tickets?
Don't show up to the terminal parking lot without a confirmed ferry ticket. We monitor the official ferry schedule 24/7. Set up an alert and book instantly when seats open.
Set Up Your Ferry Alert