Choose private when the route needs to bend around your group, timing or interests. Choose a small group when shared energy matters and a fixed shape keeps the cost more predictable.
The trade-off to understand
Private is not automatically better. It usually costs more because host and transport time are carried by fewer guests. A well-designed small group can still feel personal when capacity is deliberately limited.
What to ask before choosing
Ask about maximum group size, what can change on the day, collection arrangements and which inclusions are shared.