Visiting St. Thomas and wondering how to get around? A taxi ride is one of the simplest ways to move between the airport, port, beaches, resorts and towns. However, you have two main options that is hail a taxi right on the street or book one ahead by phone.
Hailing works well when you are in a busy zone like the airport or cruise terminal. Phone booking makes sense if you are staying in a remote resort or arriving late at night.
So read on this article and we will walk you through both methods so you can be confident and comfortable riding around St. Thomas.
How to Hail a Taxi on the Street?
Getting a taxi in St. Thomas is simple once you know what to look for. Follow these easy steps to grab one safely and confidently.
Step 1 Find a Busy Pickup Spot
Head to areas where taxis regularly wait. You’ll see plenty near:
- Cyril E. King Airport arrivals area
- Cruise ship terminals in Charlotte Amalie
- Main resorts and hotels along major roads
Step 2 Look for the Taxi Light and Tariff Card
Licensed taxis show a roof or dome light when they’re on duty. You should also see a fare or tariff card inside the vehicle and this means it’s approved by the Virgin Islands Taxi cab Commission. Avoid any car without these identifiers.
Step 3 Signal and Greet the Driver
Wave your hand or make eye contact to stop the taxi. A polite greeting goes a long way locals say a simple “Good afternoon” makes interactions smoother. Then, tell the driver your destination clearly before entering.
Step 4 Confirm the Fare Before You Ride
Ask for the fare or check the posted tariff. Rates are fixed for many routes; for example, airport to Charlotte Amalie is about US $11 for one passenger. If you’re carrying extra luggage or traveling late at night, expect a small additional charge.
Step 5 Pay Smart and Ride Safe
Carry small US dollar bills, since most drivers only accept cash. Once inside, sit in the back seat and note the license plate or taxi ID for safety.
Step 6 Know When Street Hailing Works Best
Street taxis are ideal when:
- You’re in a busy or central zone
- You’re traveling light
- You’re okay with shared rides
- You need a quick, short distance trip
What to Know Before You Jump In
Even when you are just stopping a taxi, there are a few important facts to know so you don’t get surprised:
- Make sure the taxi is licensed. Taxis must have the “on duty” sign and must accept passengers going in the same direction unless otherwise hired.
- Check that the fare card is posted inside the taxi. If you don’t see it, ask for the estimate first.
- Be aware of extra charges: luggage items, after hours rides [midnight to 6 am] or special destinations may cost more.
- If you have heavy bags or need child seats, consider whether the street taxi will suit you or you might be better off booking in advance.
Why and When Booking a Taxi by Phone Makes Sense
There are times when calling ahead is clearly the better option. For example if you are staying in a resort that is far from the main roads, arriving late at night, or travelling with a group or lots of bags. Many local operators provide dispatch services across the island. One major taxi service lists the number [340] 774 7457 for St. Thomas.
When you call: tell your pickup location, destination, number of passengers and any extra stops. Ask whether the vehicle will be private or shared. Shared vans may pick up others on the way. Confirm whether payment is cash only or if credit cards are accepted. Many local taxis still prefer cash. Also schedule a pickup time especially if you arrive by flight or ferry – delays happen and a booked ride gives you peace of mind.
Phone booking gives you certainty: you know when the driver will arrive, you know the starting cost [or can ask], you can travel with more comfort and control.
How to Book a Taxi Ahead by Phone
Here’s a quick simple checklist for phone booking taxi in St. Thomas:
- Choose a licensed taxi company or dispatch number. Check online reviews or your hotel can recommend one.
- Call ahead and give your details: hotel/resort name, room number if applicable, number of people, baggage, desired pickup time.
- Ask for the cost or a flat rate. Confirm if the vehicle is private or shared.
- Ask payment terms: cash preferred? credit card? tips expected?
- Confirm the driver’s name or taxi ID if provided and what their meeting point will be [airport lobby, resort front desk, pier exit etc.].
- Note down their phone number, the taxi company name and approximate arrival time.
Street Hail vs Phone Booking: Which Fits Your Situation?
To help you decide quickly here is a comparison of both methods along key factors:
| Factor | Street Hail | Phone Booking |
| Location | Best where taxis are abundant airport, port, town | Works from anywhere on the island |
| Wait time | Usually short if you are in a busy area | You set the time; driver arrives waiting |
| Cost clarity | Need to ask/check tariffs before ride | Can ask ahead and lock a fare |
| Bags / group size | May be cramped or shared | Better for many bags or groups |
| Late night / remote pickup | Harder to find street taxis late or remote | Strong choice for odd hours or remote spots |
Smart Tips for a Safe, Smooth Ride on the Island
Here are extra practical tips tailored for St. Thomas that increase comfort and safety
- Always make sure the tariff schedule is posted in the vehicle. If missing ask for an estimate.
- Tip your driver around 10 to 15% cash if the service was good. That is commonly expected.
- Have US dollar bills ready in small denominations since many drivers don’t have change on hand.
- Avoid unlicensed “gypsy” taxis. Only use vehicles that show licensing and tariffs.
- Write down the driver’s name, taxi number and company number in case you leave something behind.
- If you have a flight or ferry arrival then consider booking ahead as it gives you less waiting and fewer unknowns.
- If picking up from a dock or ferry, reconfirm your pickup location [some resorts or ports have multiple exits].
- Sit in the back seat if possible and keep track of your route. If you feel uncomfortable ask the driver politely to pull over in a safe area.
Example Scenario: How a Day on the Island Can Go
Let’s imagine you arrive at the airport in St. Thomas and you have your luggage, you walk to the taxi line and see a taxi with its light on. You give the driver your resort name, he quotes US$11, you confirm and hop in. Destination hotel near Charlotte Amalie.
Later that day you plan to go to a beach high on the hill. It’s getting late and you know street taxis are less frequent in that area at night. So you call ahead, book a pickup from your hotel lobby for 7 pm, tell them your resort and number of passengers. The driver arrives right on time, you enjoy a comfortable ride uphill.
By mixing both street hailing and phone booking you get flexibility when you need it and reliability when planning ahead.
Choosing Reliable Taxi Services in St. Thomas
To boost your confidence in transport, pick licensed operators with good reviews. Many local services list transparent pricing and operate 24/7. Using one trusted company for several trips reduces stop and ask moments and helps you budget better.
Check online platforms such as TripAdvisor for ratings of taxi and tour services on St. Thomas. Tripadvisor Sites such as Majestic limo publish official fare schedules so you can compare and verify.
Conclusion
In St. Thomas you have two solid taxi methods to choose from hailing on the street or booking ahead by phone. Hailing works well when you’re in busy areas, want immediacy and travel light. Phone booking works when you want certainty, are staying somewhere remote, have many bags, or arrive at odd hours.
Remember to use the tips above to ride safely, stay clear on cost and travel with ease and if you want simplicity across several trips, consider aligning your transport with a reliable partner like Majestic Limo & Tour as part of your overall plan. Ride easy and enjoy your time on the island.