Private Transfers vs. Rental Cars: Getting to Ceiba from San Juan

Rental cars and private transfers are two ways to get to the ferry terminal.

Planning a trip to Vieques or Culebra means you’ll first need to get from San Juan to the Ceiba Ferry Terminal (or the Ceiba Airport). Many visitors wonder which is the better option: renting a car or booking a private transfer.

Here’s a simple, traveler-friendly comparison to help you decide.

Private Transfers: The Stress-Free Way to Reach Ceiba

Booking a private transfer from San Juan to Ceiba is the easiest and most convenient option for longer stays on Vieques or Culebra — and it’s the one recommended by most frequent island hoppers, especially those taking early ferries or flights.

Benefits of Choosing a Private Transfer

No Parking or Long-Term Costs

Renting a car is only worth it if you are planning a day trip

Ceiba’s parking lot is about $15 per day, which adds up quickly if you’re staying in Vieques or Culebra for multiple nights. And since only island residents can take vehicles on the ferry, your car will sit unused the entire time.

With a private transfer, you skip all parking costs completely.

Door-to-Door Convenience

Our drivers are able to pick you up either in the SJU airport, cruise port or hotel.

Your driver picks you up at the SJU airport, San Juan hotel, Airbnb, or cruise port, loads your luggage, and takes you straight to the ferry terminal entrance. No guessing, no navigating, no wrong turns.

If you’re catching one of the early ferries or flights from Ceiba, a private transfer ensures you arrive on time without the stress of driving in the dark or dealing with traffic.

Book your private ride here: Ceiba Ferry Transfers – San Juan to Ceiba

Optional Supermarket Stop

A big plus with Ceiba Ferry Transfers is the option to add a grocery stop before arriving at the terminal. This is especially useful because the last supermarket before Ceiba is much better stocked than anything on Vieques or Culebra.

Perfect for:

• Snacks

• Drinks

• Beach gear

• Supplies for longer stays

No Rental Car Return Rush

No racing back to San Juan. No worrying about scratches, gas levels, or long lines at the return counter. Just island mode from start to finish.

Rental Cars: Flexible, But Not Always Practical for Ceiba

For one day trips rental cars are a good option

Renting a car can be a great option if you plan to explore the main island before or after your trip to Vieques or Culebra. Also, travelers going for only a day trip to Vieques or Culebra can benefit from renting a car since they only need to pay one day of parking. 

What to Consider:

You Can’t Take the Car to Vieques or Culebra

Only residents can board the ferry with a vehicle. That means your rental car will sit in the Ceiba parking lot for the duration of your stay. At $15/day, a week-long trip can easily add $100+ in parking fees — for a car you’re not even using.

Extra Driving Stress

Driving from San Juan to Ceiba (1h 15m–1h 30m) can be tiring, especially:

• after a long flight

• early in the morning

• late at night

• during heavy traffic

Some travelers prefer to avoid navigating unfamiliar roads after traveling.

Higher Costs Than Expected

There are most costs to consider than only the rental car fee.

Beyond the rental rate, consider:

• Parking fees

• Gas

• Tolls (PR-66 has tolls)

• Insurance add-ons

• Extra charges for late returns

  
  

In many cases, the all-inclusive cost ends up higher than a private transfer.

Returning the Rental Car Is Time-Consuming

Rental car centers in San Juan are busy. Returning a car can add an extra 30–60 minutes before you actually get on to your next destination.

So… Which Should You Choose?

Here’s the quick version:

Option	Best For	Considerations
Private Transfer	Travelers going directly to Ceiba for the ferry or a flight	No parking fees, no stress, best for early ferries, includes optional supermarket stop
Rental Car	Travelers exploring Puerto Rico first (Old San Juan, El Yunque, Fajardo, Ponce, etc.)	Not useful in Vieques/Culebra, parking costs add up, more hassle

Final Recommendation: Private Transfers Win for Convenience & Savings

If your main goal is simply to get to Ceiba comfortably and on time, then a private transfer is hands-down the best choice. It’s:

• Easy

• Cost-effective

• Comfortable

• And totally stress-free

  
  

Ready to book? Reserve your private ride from San Juan to the Ceiba Ferry Terminal with Ceiba Ferry Transfers.

You’ll start your island getaway the smooth and easy way.

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About the Author

Josue is the founder and operator of Ceiba Ferry Transfers, a private transportation service specializing in transfers from San Juan to the Ceiba Ferry Terminal — the gateway to Vieques and Culebra.

With more than a decade of experience in Puerto Rico’s transportation industry, Josue manages every aspect of the business personally, ensuring reliability, comfort, and a local touch that larger companies can’t match.

When he’s not helping travelers reach the ferry stress-free, Josue enjoys boxing, exploring Puerto Rico’s beaches, and, occasionally, a well-earned plate of mofongo.

Safe travels and see you soon!