STT-Tortola Ferry question from a long absent TTOLer

I'm returning for my first trip to Tortola since 2015 and I have a question about the current state of affairs with the ferries out of Charlotte Amalie. Can you still show up from the airport and just ask for tix on the next one going to RT (I know you can only get to WE from RH now) like I used to do? Or must everything be done by pre-booking online? Thanks in advance for any responses!

I'm coming down for a short in-and-out from Jan 23rd to 27th as a scouting trip for a bigger trip with friends in July. In January, I'm hoping to see some of the TTOL "legends" if any of you will be down there then! I already see Mal is. I and my now ex Karen (KJ) used to know a lot of you well. However, due to my long absence from the BVI, I'm sure most of you won't know me from a hole in the wall anymore! So, please don't be offended if a random guy who claims he knows you comes up to say "Hi" and offers to buy you an adult beverage!

You should have no problem walking up those dates. Welcome back!

Pre-booking became important when the ferries were restricted in the number of passengers they could carry. This was done to allow passengers to have some physical separation in hopes of preventing the (further) spread of COVID. Since the passenger restrictions have been lifted, it is much as it was in "olden times" - reservations only needed for a very busy day.

When are you headed down in July? We are heading down July 6th or the 13th.

As George said walking up should be fine..but, that said, thro Covid and since I have booked but I spend a night in STT both ways so getan early an early PM boat coming and morning boat returning..Works for me..

Steve27: Not set in stone yet but aiming for July 17 to 26 to get in the full moon parties

We are going down July 6th to 13th. Wanting to stay away from the Christmas In July party. Why too crowded....