Transportation in Barbados

Public Transportation in Barbados Easy and Inexpensive

For such a small island, there are many forms of transportation to and from Barbados as well as means of transportation while on land. There is one airport on the island, three ports and harbors (Bridgetown, Speighstown, and Port Charles Marina), and there are about 1,600 kilometers of highways throughout the island (1,578 paved, 22 unpaved). There are no railways, but there is an extensive public transportation system.

Airport

The airport in Barbados (called the Sir Grantley Adams International Airport) is equipped to handle passenger traffic and many international airlines fly in to and out of the island on a daily basis. Some of the airlines that frequent Barbados are American Airlines, British Airways, Continental Airlines, and United Airlines. Most of the flights that originate in the United States and arrive in Barbados come from Miami or New York. Small commuter flights from other nearby islands also land in Barbados every day.

Ships and Cruise Lines

Not only are the ports suitable for cargo ships in Barbados, but they also handle cruise ships and passengers. Most of the countries in the region have been attempting to upgrade and update their cruise ship ports in order to attract visitors to their islands as well as increase their ability to handle the most modern, large cruise ships currently being manufactured by cruise ship companies. The ports in Barbados are well ahead of most of the other ports in the Caribbean in terms of enhancements. In fact, the Bridgetown port in Barbados was named, “Caribbean Port of the Year,” in 1992, 1994, 1996, 1997, 2004 and 2005.

Public Transportation

For under a dollar ($1.50 in Barbados dollars), local Barbadians and/or tourists can get almost anywhere on the island. The public transportation system in Barbados consists of government-run busses, private busses, and taxis. Any of these methods of transportation cost the same amount of money and all are available at all times of the day. However, during peak travel times, it may be hard to find an available taxi or even squeeze on a bus. Taxis are available to island visitors who want a tour of the island. Taxis generally come in a few sizes… vans, coaches or luxury cars. When opting for this form of transportation, the appropriate size vehicle can be chosen depending on how many passengers will be included.

Car Rentals

Renting a car in Barbados is a good idea for anyone or any family wanting to see the entire island. One of the best aspects of renting a car is that sightseeing can be accomplished at any pace desired. There are numerous car rental companies on the island and a car does not necessarily have to be rented at the airport. Most rental agencies will drop off and pick up a rental car from a hotel or a cruise ship port. Vehicle rental rules in Barbados are similar to those in the United States. The driver must have a valid driver’s license from their residential country and some agencies require that the driver be above a specific age.

Tour Operators

There are number of tour companies that not only drive visitors around the island, but bring them to many of Barbados’ most popular attractions. A tour can consist of a quick trip or an all-day event. The tour operators/drivers will tell the passengers about the island’s landmarks as well as ensure that visitors are comfortable and have a good time during their visit.