Hiring a taxi is one of the easiest ways to get around Grand Cayman. Cayman is home to a broad range of taxi companies. Available day and night, Cayman taxis operate on varying fixed rates, which are posted and easily visible. The standard rate applies to up to 3 passengers and, for each additional passenger, an additional third is added to the charge.
Booking a Taxi
There are several options for booking a taxi while visiting the Cayman Islands.
- Flag down taxis on the street if their taxi light is on. This option works best in the busier areas of George Town and Seven Mile Beach.
- Call the dispatch number of a taxi company and let them know your pickup location and destination.
- If staying at a major resort, ask the hotel concierge to call a taxi for you. They often have relationships with specific companies.
- Look for a the queue at designated taxi stands around the island, such as at hotels, shopping centers, and tourist attractions. Simply walk up to the first taxi in line.
- At the airports, go to the taxi stand outside the terminal to find queued taxis ready to take passengers.
Booking in advance is generally not necessary, except for very early morning pickups where calling the dispatch is recommended. With various taxi options available throughout the islands, getting a taxi is a quick and painless process in Cayman.
Fares and Payment
The fares for taxis in the Cayman Islands are regulated by the government to prevent overcharging. However, rates can vary depending on additional fees, the number of passengers, and time of day.
Average Fares
As a general guideline, expect to pay around CI$20-25 for short trips within George Town, and CI$60-80 for airport transfers to Seven Mile Beach. However, fares increase significantly after midnight and on Sundays and holidays.
- Airport to Central George Town - CI$20
- Airport to Marriott Hotel & Resort - CI$25
- Airport to Bodden Town - CI$55
- Airport to East End (Morritt's Resort) - CI$104
Fare Calculator
To get an accurate fare estimate, use the CI:GO Taxi Fare App provided by the Government. Simply enter your pickup and drop off locations and it will provide the estimated fare range. This helps avoid surprises and confusion over rates.
Paying with Cash or Credit
Taxis accept both cash and credit cards. However, paying in cash is often preferred and can sometimes result in a slightly lower fare. Make sure to clarify with your driver at the start of the trip. Also be aware that larger denomination bills may be difficult for drivers to make change for.
Tipping
Tipping is not required but it is customary to tip 10-15% of the fare. Consider rounding up the fare and letting the driver keep the change as a tip. Exceptional service may warrant a larger tip.
Tips for Visitors
When taking taxis in the Cayman Islands, here are some tips to ensure a smooth experience:
- Negotiate the fare upfront - Always confirm the fare before getting into the taxi to avoid surprises at your destination. Be clear about exactly where you want to go and get an estimate from the driver.
- Be clear on your destination - Tell the driver exactly where you need to go, providing the full street address if possible. Verify they know the location before departing. Speak up if it seems they are going an inefficient route.
- Avoid scams - Only take licensed, official taxis with proper markings. Beware of unmarked cars claiming to be taxis that approach you directly. Politely decline offers from unofficial drivers.
- Know the route - Have a general sense of the direction and duration to your destination. This helps avoid extremely long rides or unnecessary detours. Speak up if the route seems suspicious.
- Confirm the currency - Ensure you and the driver agree on whether the fare will be in Cayman Island dollars or U.S. dollars to avoid confusion.
- Get a receipt - Request a receipt with the company name and fare amount. This provides a record of your ride in case of any disputes and supports contacting the taxi company if needed.
- Use taxi stands - Look for official taxi stands, like those at the airport, to avoid unauthorized drivers. This helps ensure you get a licensed taxi.
- Trust your instinct - Don't feel pressured to take any taxi you feel uncomfortable with. Decline rides that seem suspicious.
