Ferry to Vieques...is it really a nightmare?
 

It seems from what I've read, that the ferry is the least desirable way to get to Vieques. I hear it's choppy (I get seasick) and breaks down and doesn't stay on schedule, etc. Does anyone have experience with it? Flying may be the better option but clearly the price difference peaks a person's interest in the ferry...thoughts? Advice? Thanks!

Flying is best go for that.
Ferry if budget have done it
not bad but variable times and weather.

I noticed the last week that the ferry was advertising something like 3 months of service on schedule. Not sure if that is a good thing or bad... LOL. I would guess that the ride can be a bit choppy. We opted for the plane (see my trip report I posted yesterday). Bottom line either way, on your return, I would be sure that your plan has you on the main island in plenty of time, if not the day before your trip home.

We've taken the ferry to Vieques and back twice.
One trip was in November and the ferry was busy because it was around Thanksgiving.
Locals have priority boarding and usually this is easy as they don't have luggage but this time everyone seemed to be carrying coolers and roll-on carts filled with food!
We were early so had no problems getting on but I know some people had to wait for the next ferry.

Other trip was in February and we had no issues.

Best advice
Get there early and buy your tickets.
There's a shady seating area at the terminal and a hole in the wall type place that sells food (recommend you bring snacks if you're hungry but my kids ate the pizza!).

Didn't find either trip was choppy and I didn't see anyone being seasick on either trip. Inside it's very cool due to the ac so we tended to spend part of each journey outside and part inside.
I like boat trips more than I enjoy those tiny inter-island planes!

I went to Vieques last year. The ride on the ferry is definitely choppy. I didn't get seasick, but if you're prone to that, the ferry would not be the way to go. I would have to agree with sassy_cat, the a/c is blasted on. I would bring a light jacket or sweater.
You should get there early to buy tickets. i didn't have any problems going or returning. I don't think the expense of flying vs taking the ferry is worth it.
Overall, I'm glad I went to see Vieques, but I wouldn't go back any time soon. It wasn't worth the time or hassle.

Okay, thanks you guys. Maybe I'll fly and let my husband ferry with the kids. I get seasick. And I hate the patch.

Ha, ha I like the way you do things!

You could also take a private boat trip one way with snorkeling. Check out Erin go bragh.