Water Taxi double decker
1 / 10

Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale

4.3
·164 reviews·Fort Lauderdale, United States

Explore Fort Lauderdale's 'Venice of America' via its scenic waterways on the Water Taxi or free Water Trolley. See mansions, yachts, and more!

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Scenic sunset views

CrowdMedium
Loading map...
Water Taxi double decker

Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale

Best Time

Evenings

Scenic sunset views

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore Fort Lauderdale's 'Venice of America' via its scenic waterways on the Water Taxi or free Water Trolley. See mansions, yachts, and more!

4.3
(164 reviews)

"It's a great affordable way to explore Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Hollywood. You've gotta check it out!!!!!"

Vertical photo
TIP

✅ Free Water Trolley Option

Utilize the free Water Trolley for a scenic ride along the New River. It's a fantastic budget-friendly option!

📱 Use the Free App

Download the Water Taxi app for real-time boat locations and ETAs. It's very accurate and helpful!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Intracoastal Waterway Views

Intracoastal Waterway Views

Along the Intracoastal Waterway

Marvel at opulent mansions and mega-yachts lining the stunning waterways. It's like a floating tour of luxury!

TikTokInstagram
Riverwalk Exploration

Riverwalk Exploration

New River

Navigate the New River and discover the vibrant Riverwalk district, a hub for arts, culture, and dining.

TikTok+1
Dolphin Sightings

Dolphin Sightings

Coastal waters

Keep an eye out for playful dolphins! Many visitors report exciting sightings during their water taxi journeys.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Waterway

Fort Lauderdale's extensive canals are best explored by water. The Water Taxi and Water Trolley offer unique, often free, ways to see the 'Venice of America.' Plan your route and stops in advance, as some services are hop-on/hop-off and capacity-dependent. TikTokInstagram

Beat the Heat & Crowds

Florida sun can be intense. Bring water, sunscreen, and hats. Arriving early can help you secure a spot on popular routes, especially if you're looking for a less crowded experience. TikTok Consider off-peak hours for a more relaxed ride. Reddit

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Scenic sunset views
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more capacity
Crowd
Low
When
Happy Hour (after 4 PM)
Why
Discounted fares
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

If you’re visiting Fort Lauderdale Beach and don’t have a car, the City of Fort Lauderdale and local businesses have funded Circuit, a free shuttle service in Fort Lauderdale Beach. #florida #circuit #fortlauderdale #fortlauderdalebeach #fortlauderdalecircuit #uber #dontdrinkanddrive
@sarahrachelkagan
41.7K likes • 627.3K views

✅ Free Water Trolley Option

Utilize the free Water Trolley for a scenic ride along the New River. It's a fantastic budget-friendly option! TikTokInstagram+1

📱 Use the Free App

Download the Water Taxi app for real-time boat locations and ETAs. It's very accurate and helpful! Reddit

Water Trolley en Ft Lauderdale y #GRATIS 🤑🛥 Recomendaciones: 👉🏻 Llega temprano 👉🏻 Recorre las Olas Blvd (esta muy cerca) 👉🏻 Lentes y agua indispensables para el calor de #florida #monicadeviaje
@monicadeviaje
10.6K likes • 277.7K views
Fort Lauderdale - Water Taxi 🚤🍽️☀️ @fortlauderdalewatertaxi 📍620 E Las Olas Blvd Fort Lauderdale, 33001 Follow @Ms.SoFlo for more! #southflorida #fortlauderdale #mssoflo #watertaxi #datenightideas #thingstodo #fortlauderdalewatertaxi #thingstodofortlauderdale #southfloridafoodie #browardfoodie #explorepage #broward #browardeats #foodporn #foodies #miamifoodie #fortlauderdalefoodies #fy #fyp ...
ms.soflo
433 likes • 21.6K views

🚰 Bring Water & Snacks

Stops can have limited shade and seating. Be prepared for potential waits with water and snacks. Reddit

📸 Ask for Photo Ops

Don't hesitate to ask the crew if you can move to the front for better photos. They're often accommodating! Reddit

Sabia que o Water Taxi de Fort Lauderdale é uma excelente opção para apreciar as mansões da cidade? O táxi aquático em Fort Lauderdale oferece uma maneira cênica e conveniente de explorar as extensas vias navegáveis da cidade, frequentemente chamada de “Veneza da América”. Este serviço hop-on, hop-off navega pelo Intracoastal Waterway e pelo New River, com 11 paradas em locais populares como Las O...
guiamiami
157 likes • 4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

✅ Free Water Trolley Option

Utilize the free Water Trolley for a scenic ride along the New River. It's a fantastic budget-friendly option! TikTokInstagram+1

📱 Use the Free App

Download the Water Taxi app for real-time boat locations and ETAs. It's very accurate and helpful! Reddit

🚰 Bring Water & Snacks

Stops can have limited shade and seating. Be prepared for potential waits with water and snacks. Reddit

📸 Ask for Photo Ops

Don't hesitate to ask the crew if you can move to the front for better photos. They're often accommodating! Reddit

🏨 Resort Perks

Check if your resort offers free Water Taxi passes. Many do, which can save you money! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.3
(164 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors generally praise the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi for its scenic routes, knowledgeable crews, and convenient access to attractions and dining. Many highlight the stunning views of mansions and yachts, and the opportunity to see dolphins. However, some reviews mention inconsistent boat schedules, potential for long waits due to capacity, and a need for improved customer service on the phone. TikTokReddit

"I took the ride for the first time and It was awesome. Captain and crew Sam & Sam were great. The only thing you guys need to improve is the phone customer service. I called to find out how the service worked and the girl sounded annoyed of any questions I had, she was not able or willing to explain how the service and routes work. Not all customers are residents."

Mauricio Chavez

"Johno, Gianne, AJ, and Nico all provided a phenomenal experience. We got to see dolphins which was my favorite part of our trip. The staff were knowledgeable about the area, things to do, places to eat and shop, and more. They pointed out countless homes and yachts that belong to famous people and families- we saw the home of the Hall family (Hall cough drops), Papa John’s house, and many many more but those are the 2 that I remember. I highly recommend!!! It’s a great affordable way to explore Pompano Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Hollywood. They even let us walk to the front of the boat on multiple occasions for pictures. I’m not usually a fan of sight seeing cause it’s boring but this was fun. You’ve gotta check it out!!!!!"

Sam Ricotta

"When on board, the boat is professionally conducted and I felt safe. The crews seemed experience and helpful. The rides themselves were enjoyable. The route is fun.

HOWEVER. The Water Taxi website states a boat comes every 35-45 minutes on the Ft. Lauderdale route. Keep in mind the boat can only take on passengers if they have capacity. Some stops are only visited if a passenger on board indicates they want to get off, or the captain sees someone waiting.

If your stop is skipped, you may be waiting an additional 35-45 minutes, hoping the next one has capacity for you. The stops have very little shade and no seating.

I would say this is more of a rotating tourist boat service with designated stops than a “boat taxi” service that prioritizes getting guests from point A to point B.

Like another reviewer said, I watched the staff tell people waiting that another boat would be along in 15-30 minutes when that did not appear to be true.

Tl;dr: It’s a fine service, but don’t count on the boats picking you up at certain times and come prepared to wait at stops for a long time (snacks and plenty of water)."

Morgan Landon

What People Like

Scenic mansion and yacht views
Knowledgeable and friendly crew
Convenient hop-on/hop-off

What People Dislike

Inconsistent wait times
Limited shade at stops
Phone customer service issues

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Fort Lauderdale offers several convenient transportation options. The Water Taxi and Water Trolley are excellent for exploring the city's waterways and accessing popular areas like Las Olas Boulevard and the beach. TikTok+1 For areas not covered by water transit, consider ride-sharing services or the free Circuit shuttle for the beach area. TikTok

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi offers a direct route to Hollywood, making it a scenic and stress-free way to travel between the two cities. InstagramReddit This service allows you to hop on and off at various stops, providing flexibility for your journey. Instagram

While the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi primarily serves Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Pompano Beach, direct routes to Miami are not typically offered. Instagram+1 For travel to Miami, you would likely need to arrange separate transportation. Instagram

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi has numerous stops throughout the city, including along Las Olas Boulevard, near hotels, restaurants, and attractions. Instagram+2 You can find a detailed route map and stop locations on their official website or through their mobile app. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Fort Lauderdale Water Trolley is completely free to ride! TikTokInstagram+1 It operates along the New River and offers a wonderful way to see the city from a different perspective without any cost. TikTok+1

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi offers various ticket options, including an All-Day Pass, which is a popular choice for exploring multiple stops. Instagram Prices can vary, and it's advisable to check their website or app for the most current Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi prices and potential discounts. InstagramReddit

Yes, look for discount Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi tickets and coupons for Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale. Some resorts offer free passes, and there are often happy hour specials that provide discounts on drinks and sometimes fares. InstagramReddit

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi typically operates daily from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., with routes covering Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, and Pompano Beach. TikTokInstagram It's always a good idea to check the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi schedule for specific route times and any seasonal adjustments. Instagram

Yes, you can easily purchase Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi tickets online through their official website or via their mobile app. Reddit This is often the most convenient way to secure your tickets and plan your day. Reddit

The Fort Lauderdale Water Trolley is a free service operating on the New River, ideal for exploring that specific area. TikTok+1 The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is a paid service with a broader route network, covering the Intracoastal Waterway and New River, with stops in multiple cities and offering an All-Day Pass for hop-on, hop-off flexibility. Instagram+1

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi provides an unparalleled view of the city's magnificent waterfront mansions and yachts. TikTokInstagram Many visitors rave about seeing the homes of celebrities and prominent families from the comfort of the boat. Reddit

Yes, the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi operates on a hop-on, hop-off basis, allowing you to disembark at various stops to explore attractions, restaurants, and shops, and then re-board a later boat. Instagram+1 This flexibility makes it a great way to customize your sightseeing experience. Instagram

Expect a scenic and enjoyable journey along Fort Lauderdale's waterways. The crew is often knowledgeable about local history and points of interest. Reddit You'll see impressive homes, yachts, and potentially marine life like dolphins. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is a fun and engaging experience for families. Kids often enjoy spotting dolphins and seeing the large boats and mansions. TikTokReddit Some boats even have double decks for better views. Reddit

The best stops on Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi depend on your interests. Popular areas include Las Olas Boulevard for shopping and dining, the Riverwalk for cultural attractions, and various waterfront restaurants and hotels. Instagram+1 Checking the route map and considering your desired activities will help you choose the best stops. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

While you can't typically bring a full meal onboard, many Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi stops are located near excellent waterfront restaurants and bars. Instagram+1 Some reviewers mention enjoying happy hour specials on the boat or using the taxi to access dining destinations. InstagramReddit

Yes, the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi conveniently stops at or near numerous restaurants, bars, and cafes. Instagram+1 Many of these offer beautiful waterfront dining experiences, making the taxi an ideal way to access them. Instagram

Some Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi boats may offer drinks for purchase, and happy hour specials are sometimes available. InstagramReddit Reviewers have mentioned enjoying beer, wine, and well drinks. Reddit

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi stops at designated locations, many of which are adjacent to popular restaurants. Instagram+1 You can use the route map to identify stops near your desired dining spots. Instagram

For quieter dining experiences, look for restaurants slightly off the main strips near Water Taxi stops. Some Reddit users suggest seeking out places where you can hold a conversation without yelling, especially on weekend evenings. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi offers incredible photo opportunities of luxurious mansions, mega-yachts, and the beautiful coastline. TikTokInstagram The Intracoastal Waterway and New River provide stunning backdrops. TikTok+1

The golden hours around sunrise and sunset offer the most dramatic lighting for photography. TikTok Evenings can provide beautiful sunset views over the water. TikTok

Yes, many visitors report being allowed to move to the front of the boat for better photo opportunities, especially if the boat isn't too crowded. Reddit

A versatile lens, like a zoom lens, is useful for capturing both wide water views and details of the mansions. A polarizing filter can help reduce glare on the water. TikTok

Stops along the Intracoastal Waterway offer the most impressive views of the large estates and yachts. TikTokInstagram The Riverwalk area also provides picturesque scenes of the city skyline and waterfront parks. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi and Water Trolley are fantastic options for families. Kids are often thrilled by the boat ride itself, the chance to see large yachts, and the possibility of spotting dolphins. TikTokReddit The hop-on, hop-off nature of the Water Taxi allows for flexibility, so you can easily take breaks or focus on specific attractions. Instagram Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as stops might not always have immediate access to refreshments. Reddit

Look for the double-decker boats for the best views, and don't hesitate to ask the crew about interesting sights or if you can get closer for photos. Reddit The Water Trolley is a free and easy way to enjoy a shorter, scenic ride on the New River, perfect for younger children. TikTok+1

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Fort Lauderdale Water Trolley is a must-use, as it offers a completely free scenic tour of the New River. TikTokInstagram+1 While the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi has a cost, look for discount Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi tickets and coupons for Water Taxi Fort Lauderdale. Reddit Many resorts offer free passes, so always check with your accommodation. Reddit Purchasing an All-Day Pass can be cost-effective if you plan to use the taxi extensively to visit multiple locations. Instagram

💑 Couples & Date Nights

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi offers a romantic and scenic experience, perfect for date nights. Enjoy sunset cruises along the Intracoastal Waterway, admiring the illuminated mansions and yachts. InstagramReddit Many stops are conveniently located near excellent waterfront restaurants and bars, making it easy to combine a boat ride with dinner and drinks. Instagram+1 Look for happy hour specials on the boat or at waterside establishments for a more affordable romantic outing. InstagramReddit

🚶 Day-Trippers

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is ideal for day-trippers looking to efficiently explore the city's highlights. The hop-on, hop-off system allows you to maximize your time, visiting key areas like Las Olas Boulevard, the beach, and various dining spots without the hassle of parking or traffic. Instagram+1 An All-Day Pass is highly recommended for maximum flexibility. Instagram Utilize the app to track boat times and plan your itinerary to see as much as possible in a single day. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating Fort Lauderdale's Waterways: Taxi vs. Trolley

Fort Lauderdale is often called the 'Venice of America' due to its extensive network of canals and waterways, spanning over 300 miles. Instagram Two primary ways to experience this aquatic charm are the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi and the Fort Lauderdale Water Trolley. The Water Trolley is a fantastic free option that operates along the New River, perfect for a leisurely cruise and exploring the Riverwalk area. TikTok+2 It's ideal for a relaxed, no-cost exploration of a specific part of the city. TikTok

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi, on the other hand, is a paid service that offers a more comprehensive network. It covers the Intracoastal Waterway and the New River, with stops extending to Hollywood and Pompano Beach. Instagram+1 This service is a hop-on, hop-off system, allowing you to disembark at various points to visit restaurants, shops, and attractions, and then re-board a later boat. Instagram+1 It's a convenient way to travel between different parts of the city without dealing with traffic, offering stunning views of waterfront mansions and yachts along the way. TikTokInstagram

When choosing between the two, consider your budget and desired itinerary. The Water Trolley is perfect for a free, scenic ride on the New River, while the Water Taxi offers broader access, flexibility, and the chance to explore multiple areas and even neighboring cities. TikTokInstagram Both provide unique perspectives of Fort Lauderdale's beautiful aquatic landscape. TikTok

Maximizing Your Water Taxi Experience

To make the most of your Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi journey, planning is key. The service operates on a hop-on, hop-off model, meaning boats arrive at stops at intervals, and capacity can influence boarding. Reddit While the website suggests intervals of 35-45 minutes, actual wait times can vary, especially if a boat is full or a stop is skipped because no one needs to disembark. Reddit Therefore, it's wise to bring snacks and plenty of water, as stops may offer little shade or seating. Reddit

Leveraging technology can significantly enhance your experience. Downloading the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi app is highly recommended, as it provides real-time boat tracking and estimated arrival times, which are reported to be very accurate. Reddit This app can help you minimize wait times and plan your movements more effectively. Reddit Additionally, many resorts offer complimentary passes, so it's worth inquiring about this perk before purchasing tickets. Reddit

For those looking to enjoy the journey and perhaps a drink, consider the happy hour options or an All-Day Pass. InstagramReddit The double-decker boats are often preferred for their elevated views, and some crews are known for their engaging commentary on local history and sights. Reddit Don't hesitate to ask the crew for photo opportunities; they are often accommodating, allowing passengers to move to the front of the boat for better shots of the stunning waterfront properties. Reddit

The 'Venice of America' - A Glimpse into Fort Lauderdale's Waterways

Fort Lauderdale's nickname, the 'Venice of America,' is well-earned, boasting over 300 miles of navigable waterways. Instagram This intricate network of canals, rivers, and the Intracoastal Waterway has shaped the city's identity and lifestyle. The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi and Water Trolley are not just transportation; they are gateways to understanding this unique aquatic environment. TikTokInstagram

These waterways are lined with some of the most impressive real estate in South Florida, from sprawling mansions to colossal mega-yachts. TikTokInstagram Cruising these waters offers a glimpse into a world of luxury and architectural grandeur. Many visitors are captivated by the sheer scale and opulence of the homes and vessels they encounter. Reddit Beyond the wealth, the waterways are also teeming with marine life, with dolphin sightings being a common and exciting highlight for many passengers. Reddit

Exploring Fort Lauderdale by water provides a distinct advantage over land-based travel. It bypasses traffic congestion, offers constantly changing and breathtaking scenery, and allows access to waterfront dining and entertainment venues. Instagram+1 Whether you opt for the free Water Trolley for a local feel or the comprehensive Water Taxi for broader exploration, experiencing Fort Lauderdale from its waterways is an essential part of any visit. TikTokInstagram

You may also like

1 of 2