Northern Mariana Islands Transport

Air
Saipan Airport is the main airport of the Commonwealth, although there are smaller airports located on Rota (ROP) and Tinian (TIQ), these however are mainly for domestic and private charter. Airlines serving the Northern Mariana Islands include Asiana Airlines, China Southern Air, Continental Airlines, Japan Airlines, Korean Airlines and Northwest Airlines.

Saipan Airport (SPN) is the largest of all of the airports and is situated just five kilometres south of Chalan Kanoa. Facilities in this single terminal building are somewhat limited compared with many other bigger international airports, but they include ATMs and exchange facilities, a restaurants and café, car hire desks, information desks, a small number of shops and departure lounges.

Ground transportation includes taxis, which can be found outside of Arrivals and minibuses. Travel time into the centre of Saipan is just 15 minutes.

There is limited parking at the airport with spaces for both long and short-term parking as well as designated spaces for disabled passengers.

Sea
The international port for all of the Northern Mariana Islands is located Saipan. An extensive number of companies offer services there including a number of cruise liners.

Air
If you want to travel between islands, the most convenient and often the only way is to fly. There are several daily flights between Saipan and Tinian and between Rota and Saipan. Tinian’s airport is located close to San Jose, while on Rota; the airport is in the north-eastern half of the island.

Bus
There are no public buses on any island although you will find shuttle buses which offer services between the major towns.

Car
Hiring a car is the best way to get around Saipan, especially as the island has an excellent network of roads and relatively and light traffic. There are rental agencies located at the airport and in a few of the larger hotels. Tinian and Rota also offer good driving conditions although the road network is a lot less extensive. Also, it may be worthwhile hiring a 4x4 to allow you get to all of the main sights. There are rental agencies at both airports and in San Jose on Tinian and Songsong Village on Rota. UK driving licenses are valid for up to 30 days so should cover most holidays.

Taxi
Taxis are metered and privately owned, but are usually extremely expensive. They're clearly marked and can be found in all main centres as well as being available by advanced booking through your hotel.

Sea
A ferry sails from Saipan's Charlie Dock to Tinian and back every day with a journey time of 55 minutes. There are no sailings available to Rota.