The Isle of Wight’s a beautiful place — rolling hills, charming villages, and seaside towns that feel like a step back in time. But when the bus timetables aren’t working in your favour (and let’s be honest, they often don’t), a reliable taxi can make all the difference.
Whether you’re heading from Ryde Pier to Shanklin, catching a ferry, or just need a lift back from the pub in Cowes, it’s always good to know who to call. I’ve used a fair few taxis around the island, and here’s the straight-up guide — no hype, just the ones that actually show up.
🚖 Top Taxi Services on the Isle of Wight
| Taxi Company | How to Book | Price Range | My Take |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ryde Taxis | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website / 📱 App | 💰💰 | ✅ Super reliable, especially around Ryde |
| Amar Taxis (Newport) | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website | 💰💰 | 👍 Friendly drivers, good for central IOW |
| Niton Taxis | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website | 💰💰 | ⚖️ Smaller but great for southern island areas |
| Uber | ❌ Not Available | N/A | ❌ No Uber here — local taxis only |
| Wight Exec Cars | 📞 Call / 🌐 Website | 💰💰💰 | ✔️ Classy option for airport runs & big days out |
🚖 The Breakdown
1. Ryde Taxis – The Go-To Around the Pier
If you’re arriving by ferry or staying anywhere near Ryde, these guys are your best bet. They’ve got decent coverage, the cars are clean, and they usually don’t keep you waiting long — even during summer season.
Best for:
✔️ Ryde pickups
✔️ Ferry connections
✔️ Getting across to Sandown or Bembridge
2. Amar Taxis – Central and Solid
Based in Newport, they’re a great option for getting around the middle of the island. Always friendly, never overcharge, and ideal if you’re trying to get between towns without messing around with buses.
Best for:
✔️ Local travel around Newport
✔️ Quick trips to Cowes or Ryde
✔️ Reliable drivers
3. Niton Taxis – Great for the South Side
If you’re staying down in Niton, Ventnor, or anywhere in the south, this is your local crew. They’re a smaller operation, but they know the roads like the back of their hand — and trust me, down here, that matters.
Best for:
✔️ Remote pickups
✔️ Ventnor travel
✔️ Scenic (and safe) rides through country lanes
4. Uber – Not a Thing Here
Let’s just be clear: Uber doesn’t exist on the Isle of Wight. So don’t waste time refreshing the app. Go old-school — make a call or use a local firm’s booking site. It’s the island way.
5. Wight Exec Cars – For That Extra Comfort
If you’re heading to the mainland, got a wedding, or just want something a bit more polished, Wight Exec is your premium pick. Stylish, spacious, and perfect when you want to travel stress-free.
Best for:
✔️ Airport & ferry transfers
✔️ Big events
✔️ Business travel with a bit of polish
🚖 So, What’s the Best Taxi on the Isle of Wight?
🔹 For Ryde and surrounds: Ryde Taxis is your best bet
🔹 Need central coverage? Amar Taxis has you sorted
🔹 Down south? Niton Taxis will look after you
🔹 Fancy something classy? Go with Wight Exec Cars
🔹 Uber? Nope. Don’t even try.
Pro tip: Always book ahead — especially in summer or during festivals. Taxis can get snapped up quickly, and there’s no app-based backup here.