At the end of the April, we are flying into STT for a few days before meeting friends in Road Town, Tortola for a week of bareboat sailing. We are planning to take one of the ferries to and from STT, and have our passports ready.

Can anyone advise if any one of the ferry services are a better choice? Or is any of the services to be avoided?
We will be staying in Charlotte Amalie, so the ferries in the harbor could be more convenient.
Or does anyone recommend that we take a taxi to Red Hook?

Given that we will have to pass through customs, any tips? how much time should we allow?

We'll have minimal luggage. I guess, we'll be carrying it on and off the ferry.... so I guess bringing my sailing knife probably is not a good idea.

Thanks for any responses!
Jim