The choice at EIS is really between a shared safari taxi and a private vehicle. Both get you where you need to go, but the experience is quite different.
Shared safari taxis
The classic BVI taxi is an open-air truck with bench seating under a canopy. The driver picks up multiple passengers heading in the same general direction. You pay per person at the government-set rate.
Advantages: No advance booking needed, fixed rates, part of the local experience, available immediately outside the terminal during daytime.
Disadvantages: You may wait while the driver collects enough passengers. Other stops along the route add time. Open-air means exposure to sun and occasional rain. Luggage sits in the back, loosely secured. No air conditioning. No child seats.
Private pre-booked transfers
A dedicated vehicle — usually an enclosed van or SUV — with a driver waiting for you at the terminal.
Advantages: Direct to your destination with no stops, enclosed and air-conditioned, luggage secured properly, child seats available on request, fixed price per vehicle (better for groups), driver tracks your flight and adjusts for delays.
Disadvantages: Costs more than a shared taxi for solo travellers, requires advance booking.
Cost comparison for Road Town
- Shared taxi: ~$27 per person ($54 for a couple)
- Private transfer: ~$40-55 for the vehicle
When timing matters
If you have a ferry to catch — to Virgin Gorda, Jost Van Dyke, or another island — a private transfer is strongly recommended. Shared taxis operate on "island time," and waiting for the vehicle to fill up or making extra stops could cause you to miss your ferry.
The practical choice
Solo travellers on a budget, arriving during the day, with light luggage — a safari taxi is fine and arguably more fun. Everyone else — families, couples with luggage, anyone with a ferry connection, late arrivals — will have a smoother experience with a pre-booked transfer.