Arrecife taxis arrange cruise shifts to guarantee services for locals

Arrecife taxi drivers have reached an agreement to operate shifts that guarantee services for local residents when high numbers of cruise tourists arrive at the island.

Many locals have complained about the lack of taxis when cruise ships are docked at Arrecife, with drivers waiting for a lucrative fare to one of the island’s sights rather than the short trips that are usually taken by locals.

The arrangement will guarantee that, on cruise days, at least 33% of cabs will remain serving the city’s ranks, with a certain number of drivers, fixed by rota, forbidden from operating at the cruise port. Local police will be charged with ensuring the quotas are upheld.