Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale
Explore Fort Lauderdale's 'Venice of America' via scenic water taxi, hopping between mansions, yachts, restaurants, and shops.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale
Best Time
Fewer crowds, pleasant weather
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Fort Lauderdale's 'Venice of America' via scenic water taxi, hopping between mansions, yachts, restaurants, and shops.
"The best way to explore these waterways is on the @fortlauderdalewatertaxi."
🎯 All-Day Pass Value
Get an all-day pass for unlimited rides and explore multiple spots.
☀️ Beat the Sun
Bring shade or plan rides to avoid intense midday heat.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Mansions and Yachts Cruise
Intracoastal Waterway & New River
Marvel at opulent waterfront mansions and mega-yachts, showcasing Fort Lauderdale's luxurious lifestyle.
+1
Hop-On, Hop-Off Convenience
Various stops along the route
Easily access popular restaurants, shops, and attractions like Margaritaville and Stranahan House.
Scenic River and Canal Views
New River & Intracoastal Waterway
Experience Fort Lauderdale's nickname, 'Venice of America,' with charming canals and stunning waterfront vistas.
+1
Holiday Lights Cruise
Various stops
Enjoy festive holiday decorations from the water during special evening cruises in December.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
All-Day Pass for Maximum Exploration
Beat the Heat and Crowds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 All-Day Pass Value
Get an all-day pass for unlimited rides and explore multiple spots.
☀️ Beat the Sun
Bring shade or plan rides to avoid intense midday heat.
📱 Live Boat Tracker
Use the live tracker to know exactly where your next taxi is.
🍹 Happy Hour Discount
Look for evening passes or happy hour deals for savings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 All-Day Pass Value
Get an all-day pass for unlimited rides and explore multiple spots.
☀️ Beat the Sun
Bring shade or plan rides to avoid intense midday heat.
📱 Live Boat Tracker
Use the live tracker to know exactly where your next taxi is.
🍹 Happy Hour Discount
Look for evening passes or happy hour deals for savings.
🚗 Skip the Traffic
Use the water taxi to avoid car traffic, especially during events.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is widely praised as a must-do for its scenic beauty, offering stunning views of mansions and yachts along the Intracoastal Waterway and New River. Visitors appreciate the hop-on, hop-off convenience, friendly and entertaining crew, and the value of all-day passes. However, some reviews mention long wait times and lack of shade during peak hours or after events, suggesting strategic planning is beneficial.
"Taking the Fort Lauderdale & Pompano Beach Water Taxi is an absolute must-do when you're in the area! Cruising along the Intracoastal Waterway, you're treated to incredible views of massive yachts, jaw-dropping waterfront mansions, and charming canals that really show why this place is called the "Venice of America."
The captains and crew aren’t just steering the boat—they're full of entertaining stories, fun facts, and humor that make the ride even more enjoyable.
It’s a relaxing and scenic way to explore the city from the water, and you can hop on and off at various stops to explore shops, restaurants, and beaches.
Whether you're a first-time visitor or a local, it’s a great way to see a whole different side of South Florida. Highly recommend!"
Ahmed Kradi
"I took the boat to Margaritaville last night and it was such a great experience! As soon as we got on board, we were welcomed by First Mate Victor and Captain Fred. The boat was very clean, the views were beautiful, and the music was great!
Victor was not only helpful and informative but also hilarious throughout the tour. He made sure everyone was having a great time and really went above and beyond to make the experience amazing. You can tell both he and Captain Fred truly care about what they do.
This was way better than my experience on the Fort Lauderdale route, which was mediocre at best. The mates didn’t really seem to care and weren’t very engaging.
My Margaritaville boat experience was the complete opposite. I’d absolutely do it again. Thank you, Victor and Captain Fred!"
Reely8
"Our Water Taxi experience was amazing! Dirsa assisted in making my booking seamless, and the Crew went above and beyond to ensure we had the best time- they were kind, professional, attentive, and even a bit comical. I 10/10 recommend the Water Taxi, and if you are looking for a great place to host a party or celebration, you can’t go wrong with them!"
Julie Deitchman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Water Taxi has numerous stops throughout Fort Lauderdale, including at popular spots like Las Olas Blvd and near Margaritaville. You can also reach many stops via car or rideshare.
Currently, the Water Taxi primarily operates within Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Pompano Beach. It does not offer direct service to Miami.
Some stops offer parking, and valet parking is available at certain locations like Shooters Waterfront. It's best to check specific stop information.
The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is an excellent option for getting around and seeing the sights without a car, offering a scenic and convenient way to travel between attractions.
While the Water Taxi serves the Fort Lauderdale area, it's not explicitly stated to go directly to Port Everglades. Travelers often use it for day trips from the port.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary, but an all-day pass is a popular option, offering unlimited rides. Evening passes and special event tickets are also available.
Tickets can often be purchased online through their website, at various stops, or sometimes through third-party vendors. Look for potential discounts or coupons.
Yes, look for evening passes, happy hour discounts, or special event pricing. Annual passes may also offer significant savings for frequent visitors.
Hours can vary by season and day of the week. Some services start early, and evening passes are available, extending into the night.
Typically, tickets are for a single day's use, but an 'all-day pass' allows unlimited hop-on, hop-off access for that day. Annual passes offer longer-term access.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The all-day pass is highly recommended for flexibility. Enjoy the scenic views, hop off at various restaurants and shops, and listen to the captains' stories.
Popular stops include Las Olas Boulevard for dining and shopping, Stranahan House for history, and locations near Margaritaville and Hugh Taylor Birch State Park.
Many visitors praise the captains and crew for their entertaining stories, fun facts, and humor, making the ride more engaging.
Yes, it's a fun and scenic way for families to explore. However, be mindful of sun exposure and potential wait times during busy periods.
While some boats may have bars, it's generally best to check their policy on outside food and beverages. Some reviews mention enjoying drinks on board.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Absolutely! The Water Taxi conveniently stops at numerous restaurants and waterfront dining spots, making it easy to grab a meal or drinks.
Some of the larger boats, particularly double-decker ones, may feature a bar where you can purchase drinks during your ride.
Popular choices include Shooters Waterfront and restaurants near Margaritaville. Many stops offer diverse dining options along the marina.
While not a dedicated 'bar crawl' route, the hop-on, hop-off nature allows you to easily visit multiple waterfront bars and restaurants.
Yes, the Water Taxi can be a unique venue for hosting parties or celebrations, offering a memorable experience on the water.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of waterfront mansions, mega-yachts, the Intracoastal Waterway, and the city skyline from a unique perspective.
Yes, evening rides offer beautiful opportunities for sunset photography over the water and along the coastline.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide softer light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing clear, scenic photos.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, always be respectful of other passengers and private properties.
Yes, the Water Taxi provides excellent vantage points for photographing the impressive waterfront mansions and their elaborate grounds.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Consider purchasing an all-day pass so you can hop off at various points for breaks or to explore attractions like Hugh Taylor Birch State Park. 💰 Budget Travelers
Look for evening passes or happy hour deals to save money while still enjoying the scenic routes and waterfront dining options. +1 While the initial ticket price might seem like an investment, the ability to hop on and off all day to explore numerous spots makes it cost-effective compared to individual attraction tickets or multiple transport fares. 🥂 Couples & Date Nights
+1 Consider an evening pass to experience the city lights from the water, perhaps stopping for cocktails at a lively spot like Margaritaville. +1 The relaxed atmosphere and stunning scenery provide a perfect backdrop for a memorable evening together. 🚢 Cruise Passengers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Fort Lauderdale's Waterways
+1 The service operates on a hop-on, hop-off basis, connecting key areas along the Intracoastal Waterway and the New River. This allows visitors to seamlessly transition between exploring vibrant dining scenes, boutique shopping, and scenic waterfront parks without the hassle of driving and parking. Travelers frequently highlight the convenience of the all-day pass, which provides unlimited access to all routes for a set period. This pass is ideal for those who want to explore at their leisure, hopping off at various stops to enjoy a meal, visit a landmark like the Stranahan House, or simply soak in the views.
Beyond the practicalities, the Water Taxi offers a unique perspective on the city's affluent lifestyle. Cruising past mansions and mega-yachts is a highlight for many, providing a glimpse into the opulent world of South Florida's waterfront living.
+1 The captains and crew often enhance the experience with local anecdotes and historical facts, turning a simple boat ride into an informative and entertaining tour. Maximizing Your Water Taxi Experience
Many visitors recommend taking advantage of evening passes or happy hour specials. These can offer a more relaxed experience with discounted fares, perfect for enjoying sunset views or a leisurely dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants accessible via the taxi.
+1 The ability to hop off at places like Shooters Waterfront or near Margaritaville makes it a convenient choice for a night out. +1For those looking to host an event, the Water Taxi can be a unique venue. Reviews mention its suitability for parties and celebrations, offering a memorable backdrop on the water.
Special Events and Holiday Cruises
+1 Specific stops are often designated for these events, making navigation straightforward for visitors. During the holiday season, the Water Taxi offers enchanting holiday lights cruises. These special tours, typically running in the evenings throughout December, provide a magical way to view the festive decorations adorning waterfront homes and businesses.
Unlike the regular hop-on, hop-off service, these cruises usually run on a fixed route without stops, making them a perfect pre-dinner activity or a standalone festive experience. These special cruises, along with regular services, are often praised for their clean boats, friendly crew, and the overall festive atmosphere they create.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit