As a rough guide, a mini coach suits groups of up to 19, a midi coach suits groups of up to 33, and a full-size coach or double decker is the choice for anything larger. At Quinns that means executive mini coaches with 14 to 19 seats, 33 seat midi coaches, full-size coaches with 41, 53 to 57 or 61 seats, and double deckers with 79 to 86 seats. Seat numbers are only part of the decision, though. Luggage, access at each stop, accessibility and comfort on longer journeys all play a part.
Our fleet sizes at a glance
| Vehicle | Seats | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Executive mini coach | 14 to 19 | Small groups, nights out, family occasions, airport transfers |
| Executive midi coach | 33 | Clubs, smaller school groups, wedding guests |
| Executive coach | 41 | Medium-sized groups that want extra room |
| Executive coach | 53 to 57 | School trips, large clubs, corporate events |
| Executive coach | 61 | Large groups travelling together |
| Double decker | 79 to 86 | Very large groups and whole year groups |
You can see photos of each vehicle type on our private coach hire page.
Start with the number of passengers
Count everyone who needs a seat, including teachers, helpers and anyone joining part-way. Then leave yourself some room. If your group is 18 now and might grow, a 19 seat mini coach leaves almost no margin, so it is worth mentioning that numbers could change.
For one group travelling together, a single larger vehicle usually keeps everyone on the same schedule. Two smaller vehicles can make sense if the group needs to split up during the day or has pick-ups in very different places. Tell us how your day works and we will suggest the most sensible option.
Think about luggage
Full-size coaches generally carry more luggage than mini coaches, so bags can change the answer. A group of 16 heading out for the evening with nothing but handbags fits a mini coach easily. The same 16 people going to the airport with suitcases, or a sports team with kit bags, may be more comfortable in a larger vehicle. Tell us roughly what luggage you will have when you ask for a quote.
Check access at both ends
Larger vehicles need more room to stop and turn. Before you settle on a size, think about:
- country lanes, hotel driveways or tight entrances where a smaller vehicle may be easier
- car parks with height barriers, which matter for double deckers
- low bridges on the route
- whether a school or venue has a set drop-off point
We assess every journey for its location, route and safe parking at the destination, as described in our health and safety policy. Telling us about any access limits you already know about helps us get it right first time.
If anyone in your group uses a wheelchair
Tell us at the start. In May 2026 we added an 86 seat wheelchair accessible double decker to the fleet. It meets PSVAR, the accessibility regulations for public service vehicles, and has USB chargers, climate control and three-point seat belts. As it is one vehicle, mention accessibility needs early so we can check availability for your date.
Comfort on longer journeys
For a short transfer, size is the main thing. For a long day out or a journey across Ireland, comfort matters too. Wi-Fi and an onboard toilet can be added as optional extras on our quote form at an additional cost. Our guide to hiring a coach with Wi-Fi and a toilet explains when they are worth it.
Worked examples
These examples are based on our seat numbers alone. Luggage and access can change the answer.
- 15 people: a 14 to 19 seat executive mini coach.
- 28 people: a 33 seat midi coach.
- 50 people: a 53 to 57 seat executive coach.
- 80 people: a 79 to 86 seat double decker.
Get the right vehicle quoted
You do not need to choose the vehicle yourself. Tell us your passenger numbers, route, timings and luggage on our coach and minibus quote form, and we will match the vehicle to your group. Our coach hire quote checklist shows what to include, and you can call us on 028 8673 7325 if you would rather talk it through. Planning a trip for pupils? Read our guide to school trip coach hire.
