St. Thomas, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, is a popular destination for travelers seeking beautiful beaches, shopping, and access to neighboring islands like St. John. Upon landing at Cyril E. King Airport (STT), one of the most frequently asked questions is how to get to Red Hook, located on the eastern end of St. Thomas. Red Hook is the main ferry terminal for visitors heading to St. John or the British Virgin Islands. We’ll cover everything you need to know about taking a taxi from STT to Red Hook, including how the taxi system works, fare estimates, travel tips, and more.
1. Why Take a Taxi from STT to Red Hook?
Traveling from Cyril E. King Airport to Red Hook is a common route for visitors and locals alike. Red Hook is about 10 miles from the airport, and the taxi is the most convenient and stress-free way to make this journey, especially for first-time visitors or those with luggage.
Advantages of Taking a Taxi:
Direct Route: Taxis take you directly to your destination without the hassle of waiting for public transportation or dealing with multiple stops.
Convenience: With taxis readily available at the airport, you can start your trip as soon as you land without pre-booking.
Luggage Friendly: Taxis are equipped to handle passengers with large amounts of luggage, making them ideal for travelers coming in for a long stay or vacation.
2. Taxi System in St. Thomas: How It Works
Taxis in St. Thomas operate differently from those in mainland cities. Instead of using meters, the island follows a fixed fare system regulated by the government. Taxi drivers use a standardized fare chart that is based on distance and the number of passengers, ensuring that all riders are charged fairly.
Types of Taxis Available:
Regular Taxis: These are standard cars or minivans that accommodate individual travelers or small groups.
Safari Taxis: Open-air trucks with bench seating in the back. These are ideal for larger groups and offer a unique way to enjoy the island’s scenery during your ride.
Private Taxis: For a more exclusive experience, you can opt for a private taxi, which offers direct service to your destination without sharing the ride with other passengers.
Shared vs. Private Taxis:
Shared Taxis: Shared taxis are common in St. Thomas, especially for popular routes like the one from the airport to Red Hook. While this is a cost-effective option, you may have to wait for other passengers or make stops along the way.
Private Taxis: If you prefer privacy and want to head directly to your destination, you can request a private taxi. This will be more expensive but offers a quicker and more comfortable ride.
3. Taxi Fares from STT to Red Hook
Taxi fares from Cyril E. King Airport to Red Hook are set by the Virgin Islands Taxi Commission, ensuring a standard rate across all taxis. The cost will depend on how many passengers are in the taxi, the time of day, and whether you’re traveling with extra luggage.
Typical Fare Breakdown:
Single Rider Fare: For one person, the fare from STT to Red Hook is usually between $15 to $20 for a one-way trip.
Group Rates: Taxis charge per person, but larger groups can often negotiate a flat rate. For example, a group of four might pay around $60-$80 for the trip.
Luggage Fees: While most taxis include one piece of luggage in the base fare, additional bags may incur an extra charge of $2 to $4 per piece.
Payment Options:
Most taxis in St. Thomas only accept cash, so be sure to have enough U.S. dollars on hand to pay for your ride. Some drivers may accept credit cards, but it’s always better to confirm before your ride begins.
4. Travel Time and Traffic Considerations
The distance between Cyril E. King Airport and Red Hook is approximately 10 miles, and the drive usually takes about 30 minutes. However, several factors can affect your travel time.
Factors Affecting Travel Time:
Traffic: Like any busy tourist destination, St. Thomas experiences traffic congestion, particularly during peak travel seasons (December through April) and rush hours (8 AM to 10 AM and 4 PM to 6 PM).
Time of Day: Early mornings and late evenings tend to have lighter traffic, making for a faster trip. However, if you’re arriving in the middle of the day or during the evening ferry rush, expect some delays.
Road Conditions: St. Thomas’ hilly terrain and narrow roads can sometimes slow down traffic, especially during or after rain showers when the roads become slick.
Best Time to Travel:
If you’re catching a ferry from Red Hook to St. John, be sure to factor in extra time for potential traffic delays. It’s always a good idea to leave at least 45 minutes to an hour before your scheduled ferry departure.
5. Where to Find Taxis at Cyril E. King Airport
Cyril E. King Airport has a designated taxi stand located right outside the arrivals terminal. Once you exit the baggage claim area, you’ll see a line of taxis waiting to take passengers to various destinations around the island.
Finding a Taxi:
Taxi Stand: Look for the official taxi stand just outside the airport terminal. This is the most reliable place to catch a licensed taxi.
Pre-Booking: If you prefer to have a taxi waiting for you upon arrival, many local taxi companies offer pre-booking services. You can contact them via phone or through your hotel or travel agent.
Hotel Shuttle Services: Some hotels in St. Thomas offer complimentary shuttle services from the airport to Red Hook, so it’s worth checking with your hotel before booking a taxi.
6. Alternatives to Taking a Taxi to Red Hook
While taxis are the most popular option for getting from STT to Red Hook, there are a few alternative modes of transportation to consider.
1. Rental Cars:
Renting a car gives you more freedom to explore the island at your own pace. Car rental agencies are available at Cyril E. King Airport and offer a variety of vehicles, from compact cars to SUVs. However, be aware that driving in St. Thomas is on the left-hand side, which can be a challenge for visitors unfamiliar with the system.
Pros: Flexibility to travel wherever and whenever you want.
Cons: Driving in St. Thomas can be tricky due to narrow roads, sharp turns, and limited parking options in Red Hook.
2. Public Transportation:
The local public transportation system, known as “dollar vans,” offers a cheaper alternative to taxis. These open-air minibuses run between major hubs on the island, including the airport and Red Hook. Fares are just $1 to $2 per person, making them a budget-friendly option.
Pros: Inexpensive compared to taxis.
Cons: They don’t follow a set schedule, and the routes can be confusing for first-time visitors. Additionally, dollar vans may not take you directly to your destination, so you might have to walk or take another form of transportation.
3. Ferry Options:
If you’re heading to St. John, taking a ferry from Red Hook is the best option. Ferries run frequently throughout the day, but it’s important to check the schedule in advance to avoid long wait times.
Conclusion
Taking a taxi from Cyril E. King Airport to Red Hook is the easiest and most convenient way to travel between these two popular points on St. Thomas. With taxis readily available, fixed fares, and a relatively short travel time, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic drive to Red Hook. By understanding the taxi system, planning for traffic, and carrying cash for your fare, you can ensure a smooth and stress-free journey.
