Utila to Roatan Trip Overview
Distance 49 km (30.6 miles) | |
Price US$ 32 | |
Ride Duration 1h | |
Earliest Departure 16:20 | |
Latest Departure 16:20 | |
Most Popular Operator |
Find up-to-date information on departure times, schedules, and prices so you can easily compare and book your tickets.

Utila to Roatan
Once you’ve had your fill of the backpacker’s paradise of Utila, you may be ready to head to Roatan, the largest of the Bay Islands.
Although it’s the largest, Roatán still has small island vibes. It is only 77 km (~48 miles) from end to end and a mere 3 km (~5 miles) across at its widest point.
Roatán is unique because it caters to every type of traveler. Solo backpackers, families, couples, and adventure seekers can all find amazing ways to spend their time on this stunning island. Making the transition from Útila to Roatán is perfect if you’re looking to splash out for a few days on a new island and see what adventure awaits.
One of the best things to do is to enjoy the island’s biodiversity. Scuba diving, snorkeling, and jungle trekking are all possibilities on Roatán. Just be aware the diving and snorkeling trips may be a little more expensive than on Útila. The dive shops are used to catering to international tourists who come through on cruise ships. Don’t worry, though – you are still bound to find some fantastic deals if you do your research!
Roatan is also an R&R paradise. There are plenty of pristine beaches to work on your tan and great places to sip cocktails and watch the sun go down. For a bit of adrenaline action, try zip-lining and stand-up paddleboarding.
Pro Tip – avoid the giant cruise ship crowds and find activities further away from the port in Coxen Hole. The island has so much to offer, and you’ll enjoy yourself a lot more if you can join an activity without hundreds of other people.
You may be wondering, How do I get from Utila to Roatan? Read on to compare your options below.
About the ride from Utila to Roatan
Both islands are located in the Caribbean Sea, about 65 km (~40 miles) from the northern coast of Honduras. The distance from Útila to Roatán is about 50 km (~31 miles).
Because you will be traveling from one island to another, the only options are to fly or take a ferry.
Flying isn't the most common way to travel, but it’s doable. However, you may have to charter a plane.
If you do fly, the views from above will be absolutely breathtaking. You’ll be treated to a bird’s eye view of the Bay Islands and the cerulean Caribbean Sea.
The ferry from Utila to Roatan is an excellent choice because you’ll cruise through the Caribbean, enjoying a gentle sea breeze and some fantastic views along the way. Just be aware that the sea can occasionally be a little rough, making the ferry ride very bumpy. It’s always a good idea to have Dramamine with you if you’re prone to seasickness.
The ticket officials often have extra, so check before boarding if you need some medicine.
How to get from Utila to Roatan
Unfortunately, when it comes to options, transport from Utila to Roatan is limited.
However, if you’re choosing between a flight and a ferry, the fact that the ferry ride is only about an hour makes it the best choice. Not to mention that it’ll cost a fraction of the price of the plane.
Ferry
In terms of affordability and convenience, the ferry is the best way to travel from Utila to Roatan.
Standard ferries are operated by one company, Utila Dream, and depart the main dock at 10:15 am daily. The journey takes just over an hour. The ferry will arrive in Coxen Hole, which is centrally located in town. You can arrange for your hotel to pick you up or take a tuk-tuk to your accommodation for US$1-2.
The Utila Dream is a reputable company and allows passengers one large piece of luggage and a handbag on board. You can sit inside and enjoy the AC or outside so you can enjoy the Caribbean Sea breeze on your way to your next island destination.
All boats have bathrooms and a snack bar on board. As an added bonus, you can cancel or modify your ticket up to eight days prior to departure.
Tickets for the ferry from Útila to Roatán are available for about US$38 per person.
Flight
If traveling by boat just isn’t your thing, it is possible to fly to Roatán.
The flying time between islands is a mere 15 minutes because the Útila to Roatán distance is so short. You won’t save any time, though, because it will take almost as long as the ferry when everything is said and done.
CM Airlines operates a commercial flight each afternoon, which can cost between US$78-150 per person. If demand is low, the flight may not run, and you might have to charter a plane instead, which would raise the price of your ticket exponentially.
No matter how you travel, the best way to get from Útila to Roatán is what works for your schedule and budget. In the end, the only thing that matters is getting to the island and maximizing your time there.
Companies Operating from Utila to Roatan
Our travelers reviews about the ride from Utila to Roatan
Based on 14 reviews from Bookaway users who traveled from Utila to Roatan
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Popular stations and stops in Utila and Roatan
Departure stations in Utila
Arrival stations in Roatan
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FERRY: Dream Ferries | Mayan Caribbean Travel
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