Barbados has a well-established, user-friendly public transportation system, with buses that service each part of the island. The Barbados Transport Board buses are government-owned and easily recognisable by their blue colour with a yellow stripe. They run daily from as early as 5:30 am on weekdays and 6 am on weekends, as late as midnight. They tend to run every half hour from the main bus terminals on weekdays and approximately every hour on weekends. However, it is always best to check the timetable of your specific route before setting off.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Barbados bus types | Transport Board buses, Mini buses, ZR/Maxi Taxis |
Bus colours | Blue with a yellow stripe, Yellow with a blue stripe, White with a maroon stripe |
Bus fares | BDS$3.50, US$1.75 |
Bus frequency | Every half hour from main terminals on weekdays, every hour on weekends |
Operating times | 5:30 am-midnight on weekdays, 6 am-midnight on weekends |
Timetable source | Barbados Transport Board website |
What You'll Learn
Barbados Transport Board buses run from 5:30 a.m. to midnight daily
Barbados has one of the most comprehensive and user-friendly public transport networks in the Caribbean. The Barbados Transport Board buses are easily recognisable by their blue paint and yellow stripe, with signage on or above the front windshield indicating the furthest point of travel. These buses run daily from as early as 5:30 a.m. on weekdays and 6 a.m. on weekends, and continue until midnight. They typically run every half hour from the main bus terminals on weekdays and approximately every hour on weekends. However, it is always a good idea to check the timetable for your specific route.
The Transport Board buses are government-owned and operated, with a fare of BBD 3.50 one way for adults. This fare must be paid in exact change, as the drivers do not carry change. The buses are quite roomy and comfortable, providing a relaxed atmosphere to take in the sights and sounds of Barbados. They are also equipped with modern conveniences, such as free Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
The Barbados Transport Board buses have three terminals: Fairchild Street, Bridgetown; Princess Alice Terminal, Bridgetown; and Speightstown, St. Peter. There is also a bus depot in Mangrove, St. Philip, with a sub-terminal in Oistins, Christ Church. Bus stops can be identified by their "Out of City" and "To City" signs, or by the small shelters named after women as part of the "Adopt a Stop" project.
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Buses run every 30 minutes on weekdays and hourly on weekends
Barbados has a comprehensive and user-friendly public transport system, with buses running regularly across the island. The Barbados Transport Board operates a daily service, with buses running as early as 5:30 am on weekdays and 6 am on weekends, continuing until midnight.
The Transport Board buses tend to follow a consistent schedule, with services running every 30 minutes from the main bus terminals on weekdays. This means that, on average, commuters can expect a bus to arrive at their stop every half an hour during the week. This frequency is reduced on weekends, with buses running approximately hourly.
While the Transport Board aims to maintain a regular timetable, it is always advisable for commuters to check the schedule for their specific route before commencing their journey. This is because the buses may occasionally be subject to 'island time', a laid-back pace of life that is characteristic of Barbados. Therefore, it is recommended to allow some flexibility in travel plans when relying on the bus service.
The Transport Board buses are easily recognisable, painted in the national colours of blue with a horizontal yellow stripe. They are spacious and comfortable, providing a relaxed environment to take in the sights and sounds of Barbados. These buses also offer excellent value for money, with a standard fare of BDS$3.50, equivalent to US$1.75.
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Bus fares are BBD$3.50 or US$1.75
Bus fares in Barbados are BBD$3.50 or the equivalent of US$1.75. This is the standard fare for all buses, including the government-owned Transport Board buses and privately-owned minibuses. It is important to note that foreign coins are not accepted on any buses, so it is best to use local currency. When boarding a Transport Board bus, you will need the exact change, as these buses do not provide change. On the other hand, the privately-owned minibuses have conductors who can provide change, but smaller notes are preferred.
The Transport Board buses are easily recognisable by their blue colour with a yellow stripe, while the minibuses are painted yellow with a blue stripe. The Transport Board buses have three main terminals: two in the capital city of Bridgetown (Fairchild Street and Princess Alice Highway) and one in the northern town of Speightstown, with a smaller sub-terminal in Oistins on the south coast. The minibuses operate from terminals in Cheapside, River Road, and Oistins in Bridgetown.
Both types of buses offer a unique perspective on Barbados, with the Transport Board buses providing a relaxed atmosphere and the minibuses offering a more energetic experience, known for their high speed, loud music, and sudden stops.
It is worth mentioning that there are certain fare exceptions for the Transport Board buses. School children under 18, adults over 65, and children under 5 years old can travel for free under specific conditions. Overall, taking the bus in Barbados is a great way to explore the island, offering convenience, affordability, and a chance to immerse yourself in the local culture.
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Barbados' electric bus fleet is the largest in the Caribbean
In August 2020, Barbados deployed 33 electric buses, becoming the first country in the Caribbean to do so. The Barbados Transport Board partnered with BYD (Build Your Dreams), the world's largest manufacturer of electric vehicles, and Megapower Ltd, BYD's local representative, on the project. The electric bus fleet is part of the Barbados National Climate Change Plan, which aims for 100% renewable energy and carbon neutrality by 2030.
The introduction of electric buses is expected to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of public transport in Barbados. The buses are designed to be quiet, comfortable, and emissions-free, with features such as wheelchair accessibility, WiFi, and USB charging ports. The procurement of the electric buses aligns with the Barbados National Energy Policy and the government's commitment to achieving sustainable energy by 2030, creating a cleaner environment and enhancing the health of its citizens.
The Barbados Transport Board buses, easily recognised by their blue colour with a yellow stripe, run daily from as early as 5:30 am on weekdays and 6 am on weekends, as late as midnight. They typically operate every half-hour from the main bus terminals on weekdays and approximately every hour on weekends. The standard bus fare is BDS$3.50, equivalent to US$1.75. It's important to bring the correct fare, as drivers do not carry change.
The electric bus fleet in Barbados is the largest in the Caribbean, and it is expected to significantly improve the availability of buses for commuters while also reducing carbon emissions and fuel costs. This initiative positions Barbados as a leader in the region's efforts to tackle climate change and create a more sustainable future.
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Private minibuses run on demand and are faster than government buses
Barbados has a well-established public transportation system, with government-run buses and private minibuses and vans. The government buses are blue with a yellow stripe, while the private minibuses are yellow with a blue stripe. These private minibuses are smaller than the government buses and run on demand, meaning they do not operate on a fixed schedule.
Private minibuses in Barbados are a convenient option for those who want to get to their destination quickly. They are known for their speed and can be hailed anywhere along the road outside the downtown area. They are usually equipped with impressive sound systems, adding to the overall experience. While they follow the same routes as the government buses, they are not bound by a timetable, allowing them to move at a faster pace.
The private minibuses in Barbados usually have an attendant or conductor to collect the fare, so passengers don't need to worry about having exact change. This flexibility, combined with their speed, makes them a popular choice for those who want to maximise their time on the island, whether it's getting to the beach faster or fitting in more sightseeing.
The standard bus fare for both government and private buses in Barbados is BDS$3.50, which is equivalent to US$1.75. It's important to note that only local currency is accepted on the buses, and foreign coins are not permitted.
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Frequently asked questions
The Transport Board buses run daily from as early as 5:30 a.m. on weekdays and 6 a.m. on weekends.
Buses tend to run every half hour from the main bus terminals on weekdays and approximately every hour on weekends.
You can find bus route schedules and timetables on the Barbados Transport Board website.
The standard bus fare in Barbados is BDS$3.50 (US$1.75).
The Barbados Transport Board buses are painted in the national colours: blue with a horizontal yellow stripe. The minibuses are painted in the reverse colour scheme—yellow with a blue stripe.