How Many Seats are on a New Bedford Charter Bus?

Charter bus rentals come in all shapes and sizes. If you’re planning group travel for an event in New Bedford, Massachusetts, it can be tough to decide which type of bus is best for your trip. Should you book a minibus or a full-size motorcoach? How many seats do you need? And what amenities will keep everyone comfortable while on the road?

At Charter Bus Rental New Bedford, we have years of experience helping groups find the right bus rental options across Massachusetts. We offer a huge selection of vehicles big and small—from 15-passenger minibuses for quick trips around town to 56-passenger charter buses for long-distance hauls. If you’re not sure about seating capacity, or if you want to know how many people fit comfortably on each type of vehicle, this guide has you covered. Keep reading to learn more about charter bus sizes and available amenities, or call us at 774-425-8550 for help!

New Bedford Charter Bus Seating Capacity: The Quick Answer

The seating capacity of a charter bus depends on the size and model of the vehicle. Most full-size charter buses seat between 47 and 56 passengers. This makes them ideal for large-scale transportation needs like school field trips, sporting events, and corporate outings. Charter buses also tend to have the most onboard amenities available, including restrooms, luggage bays, WiFi, power outlets, TV monitors, and more.

If you don’t need quite that much space, a minibus rental may be the way to go. Minibuses typically seat anywhere from 15 to 35 passengers, so they’re great for medium-sized groups traveling locally. While they may not have as many bells and whistles as larger coaches, many of our minibuses still offer perks like reclining seats, air conditioning, overhead storage, and free WiFi.

If you need something even smaller, ask about our sprinter van rentals! These compact vehicles can accommodate up to 14 people and are perfect for airport transfers, private tours, or shuttling VIP guests between venues.

Keep in mind that seating arrangements may vary depending on the manufacturer and model year. For example, some newer buses may have slightly wider seats or extra legroom, which could reduce overall capacity by a few passengers. When you call our team, let us know your exact headcount and we’ll make sure you get a bus with enough seats for everyone.

Full-Size Charter Buses (47-56 Passengers)

When it comes to moving large groups, nothing beats the spaciousness and convenience of a full-size charter bus rental. These 47- to 56-passenger coaches are built for comfort during long-distance trips, with plush reclining seats, individual climate controls, and plenty of room to stretch out. They also have the most storage space available, with undercarriage luggage bays and overhead racks for carry-on bags.

In addition to their generous seating capacity, full-size charter buses often come equipped with premium amenities to keep passengers entertained and comfortable. Common features include flat-screen TVs with DVD players, PA systems for announcements, onboard restrooms, WiFi connectivity, and power outlets at every seat. Some models even have tables for playing cards or working on laptops while en route.

These large coaches are ideal for occasions like school field trips to the New Bedford Whaling Museum, corporate retreats at the Seaport Inn and Marina, or fan shuttles to Boston Red Sox games at Fenway Park. With a full-size charter bus, you can keep your entire group together and arrive on time without the hassle of coordinating carpools or public transit schedules.

Minibuses (15-35 Passengers)

If you’re traveling with a smaller group or just need a shuttle for short distances, consider booking a minibus rental instead. Our fleet includes minibuses that seat anywhere from 15 to 35 passengers, making them perfect for events like wedding transportation, church outings, or company holiday parties.

While minibuses may not have all the luxury features of their larger counterparts, many still offer comfortable amenities to enhance your ride. Standard perks often include cushioned seats, air conditioning, and overhead storage for backpacks or briefcases. Higher-end models may also have WiFi, power outlets, and Bluetooth-enabled sound systems for streaming music or making announcements.

One of the biggest advantages of choosing a minibus is its maneuverability. These compact vehicles can easily navigate narrow city streets and tight parking lots, which is especially useful if you’re visiting popular attractions like Fort Taber Park or shuttling guests between downtown hotels and the Zeiterion Theatre. Plus, since minibuses don’t require a special commercial license to operate, they’re easier to staff for recurring shuttle services or daily commutes.

Sprinter Vans (Up to 14 Passengers)

For the smallest groups, our sprinter van rentals offer a convenient and cost-effective transportation solution. These vans typically seat up to 14 people and are ideal for airport transfers, executive travel, or private sightseeing tours around New Bedford and beyond.

Despite their compact size, sprinter vans still provide a comfortable ride with high-backed seats, ample legroom, and climate control. Some models also feature leather upholstery, tinted windows for privacy, and USB charging ports for mobile devices. If you’re traveling with a lot of luggage, ask about sprinter vans with extended cargo space or roof racks to accommodate suitcases and equipment.

Sprinter vans are a popular choice for business travelers who need to get to and from Logan International Airport quickly, or for families who want to explore local landmarks like Buttonwood Park Zoo without splitting into multiple vehicles. They’re also a great option for small-group wine tours, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or any occasion where you want the convenience of private transportation without the expense of a larger bus.

School Buses (Up to 44 Passengers)

In addition to our charter and minibus rentals, we also offer yellow school bus rentals for budget-friendly group travel. These classic vehicles can seat up to 44 passengers and are commonly used for school field trips, summer camp excursions, or large-scale event shuttles.

While school buses may not have the same level of amenities as other options, they’re a reliable and affordable way to move large groups over short distances. The simple bench seating and wide aisles make it easy for kids to board and exit quickly, and the sturdy construction ensures a safe ride on both city streets and rural roads.

If you’re organizing a field trip to the Ocean Explorium or need transportation for a youth sports tournament at Pope Park, a school bus rental can help keep costs down while still providing efficient service. Just let us know your itinerary and passenger count, and we’ll match you with the right vehicle for your needs.

Party Buses (10-50 Passengers)

Looking to add some excitement to your next group outing? Consider renting a party bus! These specialty vehicles are designed for celebrations on the move, with seating capacities ranging from 10 to 50 passengers. Party buses come equipped with fun amenities like LED lighting, premium sound systems, flat-screen TVs, and even dance poles or bars in some models.

Whether you’re planning a birthday bash, bachelor/bachelorette party, or prom night, a party bus rental lets everyone enjoy the festivities without worrying about designated drivers or finding parking at crowded venues. You can customize your route to hit all the hottest spots in New Bedford, from downtown bars and clubs to waterfront restaurants and casinos.

Some popular destinations for party bus rentals include the Greasy Luck Brewpub for live music, the Black Whale for seafood dinners, or even day trips to nearby cities like Providence or Newport. Wherever your celebration takes you, a party bus ensures the fun doesn’t stop between stops.

Shuttle Buses (18-30 Passengers)

For ongoing transportation needs or frequent short trips, our shuttle bus rentals are a practical choice. These mid-sized vehicles typically seat between 18 and 30 passengers and are commonly used for employee commuter shuttles, hotel guest transportation, or campus circulators.

Shuttle buses are designed for efficiency, with easy-access doors, low floors for boarding, and simple bench or forward-facing seating arrangements. Many models also feature amenities like air conditioning, overhead handrails, and digital signage for displaying schedules or route information.

If your company is looking to reduce traffic congestion and promote sustainability, setting up a daily shuttle service from remote parking lots to your office building is a smart move. Similarly, hotels near the New Bedford/Fairhaven Harbor can use shuttle buses to transport guests to local attractions or the ferry terminal for trips to Martha’s Vineyard.

Our team can help you plan routes, set schedules, and choose the right size vehicle to meet your ridership demands. With a dedicated shuttle bus, you can provide reliable transportation that keeps your organization running smoothly.

ADA-Accessible Buses

At Charter Bus Rental New Bedford, we believe everyone deserves access to safe and comfortable transportation. That’s why we offer ADA-accessible bus rentals in every size category, from minibuses to full-size coaches.

Our accessible vehicles are equipped with features like wheelchair lifts or ramps, securement areas with tie-downs, and wider aisles for easy maneuvering. Some models also have priority seating for passengers with limited mobility, as well as audio/visual announcement systems for riders with hearing or vision impairments.

If you’re organizing an event or trip that requires ADA accommodations, just let us know your specific needs when booking. We’ll work with you to ensure that every member of your group can travel comfortably and safely, whether you’re heading to a conference at UMass Dartmouth or attending a performance at the Zeiterion Theatre.

What About Luggage Space?

Seating capacity is important, but don’t forget to consider how much luggage or equipment your group will be bringing along. Full-size charter buses have the most storage, with large undercarriage bays that can hold suitcases, coolers, sports gear, musical instruments, and more. Overhead racks inside the cabin are perfect for smaller bags or personal items.

Minibuses and sprinter vans have less cargo space, usually limited to overhead shelves or a small rear compartment. If you’re traveling with bulky items like trade show displays or camping gear, be sure to mention this when you call so we can recommend a vehicle with adequate storage.

School buses and shuttle buses typically have minimal luggage capacity, as they’re designed for short-haul trips without a lot of baggage. However, some models can be configured with rear storage racks or trailers if extra space is needed.

How to Choose the Right Bus Size

With so many options available, how do you decide which bus size is right for your group? Here are a few tips to help you narrow it down:

• Count your passengers carefully. It’s always better to have a few extra seats than to leave someone behind. If your headcount is close to the maximum capacity of a certain bus, consider sizing up for added comfort.
• Consider the length of your trip. For long-distance travel, a larger coach with more amenities will keep everyone happier on the road. Short local trips can usually be handled by a minibus or shuttle.
• Factor in luggage and equipment. Make sure your chosen vehicle has enough storage for everything your group needs to bring along.
• Think about accessibility needs. If anyone in your group uses a wheelchair or has mobility challenges, opt for an ADA-compliant bus with the necessary features.
• Plan for future growth. If you anticipate adding more passengers or expanding your event in the future, it may be worth investing in a slightly larger vehicle now.

Still not sure what size bus to rent? Our reservation specialists are available 24/7 to answer your questions and provide personalized recommendations based on your itinerary and budget. Just give us a call at 774-425-8550 and we’ll help you find the perfect fit.

Book Your New Bedford Charter Bus Today

No matter how many seats you need or where you’re headed, Charter Bus Rental New Bedford has a bus rental solution for you. Our statewide network includes a wide variety of vehicles to accommodate groups of all sizes, from intimate gatherings to massive conventions. Plus, with our commitment to exceptional customer service, competitive pricing, and customizable packages, you can trust us to deliver a seamless transportation experience from start to finish.

Ready to get started? Call 774-425-8550 today or use our online quote tool to receive an instant estimate for your upcoming trip. Our team is standing by 24/7 to assist with your reservation and answer any questions you may have. With Charter Bus Rental New Bedford, group travel has never been easier — or more comfortable. Let us handle the logistics so you can focus on enjoying the journey!