Drivers of public service vehicles at Dockyard, such as taxis and minibuses, have been reminded to abide by new rules for ground transportation during the cruise ship season.

Shawn Crockwell, the Minister of Tourism Development and Transport, said there had been reports of drivers going against the traffic and pedestrian system put in place at the West End in 2013.

“The new system was necessary due to the increased number of passengers and it has proven to be very successful providing a safer and more logical system for cruise ship passengers,” Mr Crockwell said.

He called on operators to be respectful of traffic officers and follow their instructions.

“I would also remind the minibus operators that they should not directly compete with and attempt to undercut the business of taxis, which is outside of their permit,” he said.

“Obviously, we want an environment in Dockyard that is favourable for all the operators as well as our visitors. Very often, the first impression our cruise ship visitors get of Bermuda is from our taxi and minibus operators, and it should be a good one, as is usually the case.”

“However, there are some operators who choose to flout the law or breach the terms of their permit. If caught, they can expect to be ticketed and repeat offenders could risk suspension or revocation of their permit.

“It is still early days in our cruise ship season and we are fortunate in that we have quite a robust season ahead of us. If we all work together, we can have a very successful and smooth transportation system at our primary cruise port.”

“I often receive complimentary letters from visitors who have been treated extremely well by our taxi drivers and minibus operators. I am very proud of the job both groups have done over the years as Bermuda’s top tourism ambassadors and I am relying on them to continue this proud tradition.”