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Getting Around St John

Getting Around St John

St John US Virgin Islands Travel Guide

Safari Taxis

St. John's main form of public transportation consists of open-air, pool taxis, locally known as "Safari Taxis." These are typically modified pickup trucks or vans with bench seating in the back, designed to carry multiple passengers along common routes.

Safari taxis operate primarily along the Northern Coast Road (Route 20), connecting Cruz Bay to the popular National Park sandy spots like Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay, and Maho Bay. They further run along Centerline Road (Route 10), which traverses the island's interior, connecting Cruz Bay to Coral Bay.

Routes & Hubs

  • Safari taxis follow fixed routes yet present flexibility to stop.
  • The main hub for safari taxis is the Cruz Bay ferry dock.
  • They pick up from popular beaches.
  • Costs for both safari taxis and the VITRAN bus are paid in cash.

Public Bus VITRAN

The Virgin Islands Transit System (VITRAN) operates a limited public bus service.

Bus Routes

Mainly connecting Cruz Bay to Coral Bay via Centerline Road (Route 10).

Tourist Utility

The bus is less frequent and less reliable for tourists; caters more to residents.

Fares & Hours

Payment & Fares
  • Costs for safari taxis are usually fixed per person for common routes.
  • A ride from Cruz Bay to Trunk Bay typically costs $5-$7 per person.
  • Prices are higher for longer distances or less common stops; drivers often have a printed fare sheet.
Operating Times
  • Safari taxis typically operate from early morning (around 7 AM) until late evening (10 PM to midnight).
  • Frequency depends on demand; they are most frequent on popular routes during daylight hours.
  • VITRAN bus schedules are less common and less convenient for most tourist itineraries.

Navigation Tips

Confirm Fare

Always confirm the fare with the safari taxi driver before getting on.

Cash Ready

Have small U.S. Dollar bills ready for payment; drivers may not have change.

Share the Ride

Be prepared to share the cab with other passengers; taxis often wait until full.

Return Trip

Plan your departure time from beaches; taxis may be less frequent later in the day.

Licensed Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Beyond the standard safari taxis, alternative choices exist for transportation. Safari taxis are easily recognizable from their open-air design and frequently a "Taxi" sign on top.

Hailing & Fares

  • They gather at the Cruz Bay ferry dock, popular beaches, and major resorts.
  • You can also flag them down along main roads.
  • Cash payments are standard for safari taxis. Fares are usually per person, per destination.
  • Confirm the price before starting your journey.

Private Options & Ride-Sharing

  • Private taxis (enclosed vehicles) can be set up through hotels or by calling specific drivers.
  • Private cabs operate on a negotiated fare.
  • Ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft are not available on St. John.
  • Look for transport with official taxi markings for safety.

Airport Taxi Arrangements

  • Upon arrival at the Cruz Bay ferry dock from St. Thomas, safari taxis are readily available.
  • Drivers typically call out destinations like "Trunk Bay, Cinnamon Bay!" to attract passengers.
  • This is a simple and immediate way to get from the ferry to your accommodation or beach.
  • Private taxis can be arranged through reputable hotels.
  • Report any concerns to local authorities.

Rental Options

Car Rental Requirements

Renters typically 25 years or older (some 21+ with surcharge). A current driver's'a driving license is necessary.

Popular Vehicles

Jeeps (Wranglers, Gladiators) are popular and recommended for St. John's terrain.

Local Companies

Sunshine's Jeep Rental, L & L Jeep Rental, Paradise Jeeps, St. John Car Rental.

Walking & Cycling

Exploring St. John on foot or by bicycle offers unique perspectives. The island has pedestrian-friendly areas and designated trails.

Pedestrian-Friendly Areas

  • Cruz The bay is the main town area, walkable with sidewalks in commercial sections.
  • Many beaches offer pleasant walking along the sand.
  • The Virgin islands archipelago National Park: numerous well-maintained hiking trails.
  • Walking tours with a guide of Cruz Bay's historical sites are available.

Bicycle Infrastructure & Safety

  • Dedicated bicycle lanes are limited; cycling is primarily on roads shared with vehicles.
  • Road cycling is challenging due to hills with a precipitous incline, narrow, winding roads, and left-hand driving.
  • Mountain biking trails are found within the National Park (e.g., L'Esperance trail).
  • Use extreme caution on main roads; follow marked trails for safer walking and cycling.

Specialized Transportation

Boat Taxis

Available for private transportation between St. Thomas, St. John, and BVI.

More expensive than public ferries.

Boat Charters

Numerous companies offer day trips for snorkeling, island hopping, or evening boat trips.

Range from large catamarans to private powerboats.

No Unique Transit

St. John has no cable cars, funiculars, or something like it unique transport systems.

Hilly terrain navigated by roads and trails.

Accessibility Services

Mobility Challenges
  • St. John's hilly and uneven ground poses challenges for travelers with mobility needs.
  • Safari taxis are generally not wheelchair accessible.
  • Some vacation spots and newer villas may offer accessible rooms.
Planning & Infrastructure
  • General infrastructure for mobility requirements is limited.
  • Travelers with specific requirements should communicate directly with accommodation providers.
  • Trunk Bay beach has a concrete pathway and accessible restrooms, offering limited accessibility.

No-Go Areas for Pedestrians & Cyclists

  • Use caution on main roads, especially Centerline Road (Route 10) and North Shore Road (Route 20).
  • These roads have heavy traffic and blind curves.
  • They often lack sidewalks or shoulders suitable for pedestrians or cyclists.
  • Stick to designated tracks in the Park For safer movement.
  • Walking alone in isolated areas at night can be unsafe.
  • Cycling on roads shared with vehicles carries higher risk.
  • Always prioritize safety, especially in unfamiliar or isolated places.
  • Blind turns on tight roads: honk before turns.

Transport Choice

John.

Consider independent exploration with a rental car or using local shared transport.

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Getting Around St John. Public Transport, Taxis, Car Rental