MAXI, TAXI & BUS SERVICES

Trinidad

For access to Port of Spain from Chaguaramas or Glencoe (the T&T Yacht Club), use either: a white-and-yellow banded maxi-taxi, usually with a sign indicating “Carenage” or “Chaguaramas” in the front window; an H-car, a car with a license plate starting with H (meaning for “hire”); or a PTSC (Public Transport Service) bus. The maxi-taxis operate between Chaguaramas and Port of Spain during regular daylight hours and cost only TT$5. All of the maxi-taxis go downtown, but there are different routes to get there. At rush hours (early morning and evening), they tend to go directly down the main highway and end up at South Quay near Independence Square. Some maxis go via Ariapita Ave, and end up at Green Corner (the junction of Park Street, St. Vincent Street and Tragarete Road). Many of the H-cars act like maxi-taxis and you share the ride with other people and pay TT$6 to Chaguaramas. Some H-cars are private taxis and will take you off the beaten path so do not be afraid to ask for a “drop” and the price. And when returning to Chaguaramas from anywhere; to avoid problems, always confirm the destination and price in TT$ (don’t get caught-up with a US$ surprise). There is a set fare for maxi-taxis, which normally is posted in the vehicle; the fares change very seldom and using large bills may be a problem. Maxi’s and taxi’s are very dependable during daylight hours however, cruisers are cautioned that travel on holidays or evening hours are sporadic. Do not assume you will find a maxi-taxi after an evening event unless you have arranged for a pick-up.

Many maxi-taxis and H-cars are available for pre-arranged tours, shopping, entertainment, events, restaurants, Piarco Airport, etc. Airport transportation fees range for a couple from TT$120 to TT$250, depending upon the time of day. Feel free to ask your favourite driver for rates for specific times and events. Booking transportation has become a regular thing with the cruisers. A word of caution before you go off and make commitments; it is recommended that you first ask around about dependability and reliability of a tour group or maxi driver so that you are not left stranded.

The hourly PTSC bus to and from Chaguaramas has one set route beginning at City Gate (the main terminal downtown at South Quay). Or you also may board on Inderendence Square. You must have a TT$2 ticket before boarding the bus, which may be purchased at some of the marina offices in Chaguaramas or at the South Quay PTSC terminal. If it sounds difficult to you, don’t worry, you will soon get oriented. Beware, the schedules can be very inconsistant, sometimes there may be two buses at one time; other times there may be no buses for hours so you have to take your chances.

Tobago

The maxi-taxis and taxis operate pretty much the same in Tobago as in Trinidad so one can travel as far as Charlotteville as well as easily getting around Scarborough and Store Bay during regular daylight hours. PTSC (Public Transport Service) bus in Tobago likewise requires the TT$2 ticket in-hand before boarding.

Port Authority Ferry Services

Most recently, the Port Authority Ferry Services had acquired additional ferries that has basically increased the speed of travel between Trinidad and Tobago as well as its capacity. The cost is TT$50-60 round trip (Tourist class per passenger). It is recommended that a cabin fare of TT$120 (one-way for up to two passengers) be considered when leaving on the later ferry from Scarborough for Port of Spain. The car fee schedule is dependent upon weight and is about TT$165 to TT$200 for a small car and driver one-way, and you need to book your car reservation two weeks in advance. All passenger tickets must be purchased in advance. For weekend travel it is recommended to book your ticket at least 5 days in advance. Even though “Trini Time” seems to be casual, do not fall into the trap of getting to the terminal late. It is required to be at the ferry terminal “two hours before sailing time” (three hours if travelling with a car). BE THERE! Your ticket may be sold to someone else. For information such as exact schedules since the departure times can vary, contact the Port Authority (ferry services); in Trinidad call 625-4906; in Tobago call 639-2668

To assure smooth quality ferry experience:

• Have valid tickets in hand for the designated sailing date.
• Passengers are not allowed to leave the ferry once boarded.
• Stand-by tickets are based upon space available and are not guaranteed.
• Collect your vehicle immediately upon arrival at the destination.
• Be forewarned; big holidays and regattas weekends will be booked weeks ahead.