Complete Guide to Transportation in Antigua: Airport Transfers, Island Shuttles, and Getting to Barbuda
How to get in and out of VC Bird Airport, how to get a temporary driving permit for rentals, what time minibuses stop running, whether to take a plane or ferry to Barbuda—this guide covers all transportation between Antigua and Barbuda’s two islands.
Arriving at and Departing from the Airport
| Method | Time/Cost | Notes |
|---|
| Airport to St. John’s | 15–20 minutes, around USD 25–35 | Taxis are not metered; agree on a fare before getting in |
| Airport to English Harbour | 30–40 minutes, around USD 35–50 | Hotel shuttles require advance booking |
| Flight to Barbuda | Approximately 15 minutes | Small planes run multiple daily flights; strict baggage weight limits apply |
| Ferry to Barbuda | Approximately 90 minutes | Cheap but affected by sea conditions; not recommended for those prone to seasickness |
VC Bird Airport has flights to and from the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, and several Caribbean nations. During cruise season (November to April), the Heritage Quay sees multiple large cruise ships docking weekly. The port area gets crowded with both people and traffic—plan your itinerary to avoid peak departure times.
Island Transport
- Renting and Driving Yourself: The best option. You’ll need to purchase a local temporary driver’s license (available with your foreign license and translation, around USD 20). Drive on the left.
- Private Minibuses: Connect St. John’s with main communities. Fares are 2–4 East Caribbean Dollars. Services are infrequent and stop early in the evening.
- Taxis: Not metered. Each route has a customary fare; check with your hotel for estimated prices. Half-day car hires cost around USD 100–150.
- Sightseeing Trams and Walking: St. John’s is small and compact—many areas, including around Heritage Quay, are walkable.
Practical Tips
- Driving around the whole island takes about 3 hours. Road signs are limited, so an offline map is recommended.
- Roads on Barbuda are rough; renting a bike or hiring a local driver is safer.
- Ferries and small planes can sell out in peak season—book as soon as your plans are confirmed.
- Rural areas have no street lighting at night. Try to be back at your accommodation before dark.
Car Hire and Day Tours
One-day island tours and half-day tours to Shirley Heights and the Dockyard have fixed schedules and can be booked via your hotel or the tourist information desk at the dock. Prices range from USD 60–120 per person, including vehicle and guide. For families of three or more, hiring a car for the full day (around USD 150–200) offers better value and allows flexible stops at beaches. For getting around Barbuda, always rely on a local guide for the entire trip—self-drive options are extremely limited and road conditions are basic.