Traveling by Taxi in Bermuda

Sightseeing in Bermuda is made simple by the convenience of local taxis

Bermuda Taxi
 

Knowledgeable drivers and affordable rates make cabs the perfect choice for primary transportation on the island of Bermuda.

Bermuda vacationers will find that taxis are metered and widely available throughout the island. There are no cars available to rent, so taxis are a popular choice by necessity. Luckily, they also happen to be affordable and convenient. Many taxi drivers are also tour guides, licensed by the government, and are happy to give visitors informative tours to local attractions. Tours generally cost between $36(USD) and $50(USD) per hour depending on number of passengers.  A taxi with a blue card in the window indicates the driver has been certified as a tourism specialist.

Vacationers traveling in larger groups will be happy to know that there is also a mini bus service available.  It is similar to hiring a taxi, with the added bonus of offering more seats.  The company that runs the bus is known as Affordable Ride, though travelers can take comfort in knowing that the service is regulated by the government.  The mini bus can hold up to 15 passengers, and range in price from $3 to $10(USD) per person, depending upon where they are traveling to and from, and whether or not they want to incorporate a tour into their drive. 

Travelers usually have no difficulty locating a cab. Many wait outside airports, hotels, marinas, and popular tourist destinations. For those who would prefer to reserve a taxi in advance, contact one of the major taxi companies in Bermuda, which include:

Company Name Telephone Number Affordable Ride 441-704-0509
441-732-0433 Bermuda Taxi Operators Company Ltd. 441-292-4175 Bermuda Taxi Radio Cabs Ltd. 441-295-4141 Bermuda Taxi Services Ltd. 441-295-8294 B.I.U. Taxi Taxi Co-Op Transportation 441-292-4476 Trott Travel Ltd. 441-295-0041

All rates are metered and should be approximately $6.40(USD) for the first mile, and  $2.25 for each subsequent mile, which is the standard rate for a cab holding one to four people. Taxis carrying more than four people will operate on a slightly increased rate system. Surcharges may apply for wait time or excess baggage. Additionally, certain times, such as holidays, Sundays, and late-night rides (between midnight and 6 a.m.) are subject to higher rates. Tipping is suggested at 10 to 15 percent. 

The following chart should give you an idea of what you can expect to pay to travel between some of the islands more popular spots:

From
To Average Fare
Hamilton City
Airport $35(USD) Hamilton City
St. George's Town
$45(USD) Hamilton City
Southampton Beaches
$25(USD) Kigs Wharf (Dockyard)
Hamilton City
$50(USD)

Those traveling with young children should always be aware of car seat laws in any given area. In Bermuda, it is against the law to ride with a young child in a personal vehicle without a car seat. Taxis, however, are exempt from this law, and will not provide a car seat to those who did not bring theirs from home. While not against the law, it is always safer to strap your child into a proper safety restraint system, so it is encouraged that you bring your car seat from home.

In 2013, a unique new taxi service was launched in Bermuda, though this service does not provide transportation on land.  Bermuda Water Taxi Services is the brainchild of local resident Ashley Simmons, who after several years of preparing the idea for the business received sponsorship from CableVision.  Now, Simmons offers pick up and drop off services for anyone who needs it in Hamilton, Dockyard, St. George's, and the Great Sound.  The service is available from 8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and offers transportation to any and all public and private docks.  Tourists can call ahead, or flag the taxi down if they see him sailing about.

Back on land, metered fares and friendly drivers make taxis an appealing option for travelers who don't want to bother with bus routes and public transportation. Taxis are a convenient and reliable means of transportation to enjoy a carefree vacation in Bermuda.