The Ideal 23-Passenger Bus: How Long Is It Really?

A 23-passenger mini bus is a great option for travelling in comfort and style as a group. With a capacity of 23 people, it is larger than a minivan but smaller than a full-size bus, making it perfect for chartered groups, taxi shares, airport services, and corporate travel. These mini buses typically have a range of amenities, including comfortable seating, audio-visual systems, and ample luggage space. In terms of dimensions, a 23-passenger mini bus has an average length of 23 feet (7.01 meters), a width of 7 feet and 4 inches (2.24 meters), and a height of 8 feet and 9 inches (2.67 meters).

Average length, width, and height

A 23-passenger mini bus is a great option for travelling in comfort and style as a group. These buses are designed to be versatile and can be used for corporate groups, weddings, and chartered groups. They typically come with amenities such as air conditioning, WiFi, audio/video packages, and comfortable seating.

Now, when it comes to the average length, width, and height of a 23-passenger bus, or mini bus, we can look at some standard specifications. These buses have an average length of 23 feet (7.01 meters). To put that into perspective, that's a little over two standard parking spaces, which are typically 9 feet (2.74 meters) in width. So, a 23-passenger bus would be a bit longer than two cars parked end to end.

In terms of width, minibuses have an average width of 7 feet and 4 inches (2.24 meters). This is narrower than a standard parking space, which gives these buses good manoeuvrability. The height of these buses is typically around 8 feet and 9 inches (2.67 meters). So, the average 23-passenger bus has a length of around 23 feet, a width of about 7 feet, and a height of almost 9 feet.

These dimensions offer a good balance between passenger capacity and manoeuvrability, making 23-passenger buses well-suited for a variety of transportation needs, including chartered groups, airport services, and corporate transportation.

Amenities and features

A 23-passenger mini bus is approximately 23 feet (7.01 metres) long and is a great option for travelling in comfort and style as a group. The amenities and features of a 23-passenger mini bus can vary, but generally, they are designed to provide a comfortable and luxurious experience, combining the best of a bus and a limousine.

Seating and Interior

The mini-coach bus offers comfortable seating arrangements with features such as oversized Amaya double-reclining seats, three-point seat belts, and extended legroom. Some buses also offer panoramic front-view windows and frameless coach windows, providing passengers with a great view during their journey.

Entertainment

To enhance the travel experience, these buses often come equipped with entertainment systems. This can include audio/video packages with multiple speakers and screens, DVD players, and even roof-mounted HVAC systems for a comfortable climate-controlled environment.

Storage and Convenience

A 23-passenger mini bus typically provides ample storage space for luggage and other belongings. This may include overhead storage compartments and rear luggage compartments, ensuring that passengers have easy access to their belongings during the trip. Additionally, some buses offer electric plug entry doors, LED interior and exterior lighting, and reading lights for added convenience and comfort.

Accessibility

Some 23-passenger mini buses are also ADA-compliant, ensuring accessibility for all passengers. This includes features such as wheelchair ramps and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs, making these buses inclusive and suitable for a diverse range of travellers.

Additional Features

Other features that may be available on a 23-passenger mini bus include tilt steering wheels, cruise control, power steering, and optional dual LCD TV/AM/FM/CD/DVD players. These features contribute to a pleasant and enjoyable journey, catering to the diverse needs and preferences of the passengers.

In summary, a 23-passenger mini bus offers a range of amenities and features designed to provide a comfortable, entertaining, and luxurious travel experience for groups. With a focus on comfort and style, these buses are well-equipped to handle various travel needs, from corporate groups to weddings and long-distance journeys.

Rental options

National Charter Bus

National Charter Bus offers a range of charter bus rental options, including full-size charter buses and minibuses. They provide services for various events, such as weddings, field trips, sports tournaments, and employee shuttle services. The cost of renting a charter bus depends on several factors, including the distance travelled, the number of rental days, the time of year, the pickup and drop-off locations, the type of bus, and any additional amenities requested. National Charter Bus recommends booking 3-6 months in advance to secure the best bus at the best price.

J&R Tours

J&R Tours offers a 23-passenger minibus rental option, ideal for sightseeing trips, athletic team transportation, weddings, and corporate events. Their minibus features spacious, high-back seating, reading lights, and ample luggage storage space. J&R Tours specialises in providing safe, stylish, and dependable transportation services with experienced drivers.

Master's Transportation

Master's Transportation provides a 25-passenger minibus rental, available for daily, weekly, monthly, and seasonal rental periods. Their minibus includes features such as recliner seats, a high roof, wide centre aisle, dedicated rear luggage space, and overhead storage. Master's Transportation offers both short-term and long-term rental options. They also provide a 15-passenger shuttle bus rental option.

US Coachways

US Coachways offers mini buses with seating capacities ranging from 24 to 35 passengers. Their mini buses come with amenities like climate control, high-back reclining bucket seats, spacious aisles, and luggage storage space. Additional options, such as Wi-Fi, DVD players, electrical outlets, and onboard bathrooms, are available on select mini buses. US Coachways has been in the charter bus industry for over 30 years and provides a free cost calculator on their website.

GOGO Charters

GOGO Charters provides a 24-passenger minibus rental option, featuring luxury interiors and panoramic views. This minibus is suitable for event shuttles, private tours, parties, weddings, company events, sports tournaments, and church outings. GOGO Charters includes a professional driver with every rental and offers a free, no-obligation quote.

Comparison to other buses

A 23-passenger mini bus is smaller than a full-size bus but larger than a minivan. It is designed to service flexible transport needs and is often used for chartered groups, taxi shares, airport services, and corporate groups. The average length of a minibus is 23 feet (7.01 metres), with a width of 7 feet and 4 inches (2.24 metres) and a height of 8 feet and 9 inches (2.67 metres). In comparison, a short bus is between 20 and 25 feet long and is a good option for 1 or 2 people who want more maneuverability and the ability to fit into most parking spots. A medium-size bus is between 25 and 35 feet long and offers a happy medium between a short and full-size bus, with plenty of interior room and similar features to a full-sized bus. A full-size bus is over 35 feet long and offers a lot of room, but can be difficult to drive and park.

A 23-passenger mini bus is also smaller than a school bus, which typically comes in short (20-25 feet), medium (25-35 feet), and full-size (35 feet plus) varieties. A 25-passenger school bus is estimated to be about 23 feet long, while a 34-passenger school bus is about 24 feet long.

Compared to a minibus, a 23-passenger mini bus is slightly larger, as minibuses typically have a capacity of 14 (+2) seats. Minibuses are often used to augment public transportation networks by providing on-demand services for small groups.

Overall, a 23-passenger mini bus offers a good balance between size and maneuverability, making it a versatile option for a range of transport needs.

Accessibility

A 23-passenger mini bus is approximately 23 feet (7.01 m) long, 7 feet 4 inches (2.24 m) wide, and 8 feet 9 inches (2.67 m) high. While specific accessibility features may vary depending on the bus model and location, there are several standard accessibility requirements for buses in the United States, as outlined by the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and enforced by the Department of Transportation (DOT). These requirements ensure that individuals with disabilities have equal access to transportation services. Here are some key accessibility features and considerations for 23-passenger buses:

Boarding Devices and Securement:

Buses are required to have boarding devices, such as lifts or ramps, to assist passengers who use wheelchairs or mobility devices in getting on and off the bus. These devices must be properly maintained and operational. Additionally, buses must have designated securement locations to prevent wheelchairs from sliding during transit.

Wheelchair Accessibility:

The ADA mandates that individuals with disabilities, including wheelchair users, be provided with timely service. Bus operators cannot discriminate against passengers with disabilities and must allow adequate time for them to board and exit the vehicle. Wheelchair users have the right to travel in their own wheelchairs, and buses should accommodate standard-sized wheelchairs.

Assistive Equipment and Features:

Assistive equipment, such as securement devices (straps for securing wheelchairs), signage, and communication devices, must be in good working condition. If any of these features are out of order, bus operators are responsible for promptly repairing them or providing an alternative accessible vehicle.

Stop Announcements and Signage:

Buses are required to make stop announcements at major intersections, transfer points, destination points, and upon the request of a rider with a disability. This helps individuals with visual impairments understand their location. Additionally, fixed-route systems must have priority seating signs designating seating for passengers with disabilities, including forward-facing priority seats.

Service Animals:

Service animals, such as guide dogs or signal dogs, are permitted to accompany individuals with disabilities on buses without any additional charges or restrictions. Bus operators should be aware of this requirement and ensure that passengers with service animals are not discriminated against.

Training for Drivers and Operators:

Bus drivers and operators must be adequately trained to assist individuals with disabilities safely and respectfully. This includes understanding the different needs of passengers with disabilities and providing assistance in boarding, exiting, and securing mobility devices.

Advance Notice for Accessible Service:

Charter and demand-responsive bus operators may require up to 48 hours' advance notice to provide accessible service to passengers with disabilities. This allows them to ensure that the necessary equipment and accommodations are in place.

By adhering to these accessibility standards, 23-passenger buses can provide safe, comfortable, and inclusive transportation for all individuals, including those with disabilities. These features promote equal access to transportation and enable individuals with disabilities to fully participate in their communities.

Frequently asked questions