We avoid the ferries in CA whenever possible, for all the reasons listed above. Whether I'm going to STJ, JVD, or Tortola, I always try to go from Red Hook if possible. Yes, it's a longer taxi ride, but I've just never had a good experience trying to do anything in/out of CA.

The last time, we were running late due to a late flight and trying to catch the last ferry out. Taxi driver called ahead to hold the ferry, and as I was signing the slip I noticed we were charged a "Departure Tax" - out of CA? When I questioned it I was told "BVI does it, we're gonna do it too". I tried arguing it, but the boat was leaving, so there wasn't time.

Felix