Sometimes, the city of Fort Lauderdale is called the “Venice of America.” And as Venice has its gondolas, Fort Lauderdale has its water taxis, traversing the several rivers that weave through the city. Via three route options, you can explore anything from nature to nightlife. If you understand the Fort Lauderdale water taxi schedule, it’s an efficient (and fun) way to get around town. Here’s all you need to know about the water taxi in Fort Lauderdale during your stay at The Link Hotel on Sunrise.
Boarding the Water Taxi
Just like any other form of public transportation, a ticket is required to board most routes. Tickets can be purchased on board, online, or on the Water Taxi app for iPhones. It’s worth your money if you ride several times throughout the day, as tickets are only available in $28 adult all-day passes or $18 happy hour passes, valid from 5 p.m. to close. Children aged 5-11 get discounts, as well as seniors. After boarding, listen to the narration to learn about the landmarks and mega yachts that line the rivers in Fort Lauderdale.
Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi Schedule and Routes
Three routes makeup the water taxi in Fort Lauderdale:
- The namesake Fort Lauderdale route has ten stops, starting at the Riverside Hotel and Stranahan House. As the water taxi goes east, stop at the Las Olas shops and restaurants, the 15th Street Fisheries, and the Hilton Marina and Convention Center. Turn around and go up the river to hit the south end of Bahia Mar, Fort Lauderdale Beach, the Galleria Mall, Birch State Park, Shooters Waterfront, and finish at Bokamper’s Sports Bar & Grill. If you like, you can whistle to make the optional stop at Seville Street, in between the 6th and 7th stops. Use the Water Taxi app to live track where taxis are, and to learn when you can expect the next boat to arrive.
- The River Route, also known as the Water Trolley, is free. Its eight stops go in the opposite direction of the Fort Lauderdale Route, giving passengers the ability to cross the New River in a loop fashion. Start at Esplanade Park, and then head to the next three stops on the north side of the river: Riverfront Plaza, Huizenga Plaza, and Laura Ward Riverwalk Plaza. After crossing the river, stops include Smoker Park, South Andrews Business District East, South Andrews Business District West and then Tarpon River. To request a pickup on the water trolley, you must call 954-TROLLEY.
- Finally, the Margaritaville Express Route is essentially a shuttle between the Hilton Marina and Convention Center and Margaritaville Hollywood Beach Resort, Boardwalk, and Beach. Taxis run hourly beginning at 9 a.m. with the last taxi leaving Margaritaville at 9 p.m.
Guide to the Water Taxi
In addition to the fun that you’ll have while riding the water taxi in Fort Lauderdale, your ticket to the taxi gives you discounts at 60 “Cruise and Save” partners. Dozens of restaurants participate, as well as places renting paddleboards on the beach, and lots more. If you don’t want to have to decide between the endless things to do that riding the water taxi opens up, follow one of the several “Captain’s Picks” itineraries instead, with options for families, date night with your spouse or a pub crawl. Private charters are also an option through the water taxi in Fort Lauderdale, with your choice of boat—whether it’s a double-decker, Fiesta or Adventure boat.
The Link Hotel
The water taxi in Fort Lauderdale is a fun way to learn more about the city without having to pay separately for a guide. After a day on the water, get rid of your sea legs by retreating to your room here at The Link Hotel on Sunrise. Fill your growling stomach with dinner from Sunrise Bar & Grille, and get a good night’s rest for another day full of exploring tomorrow. Call us at 754-701-1450 to book or connect with us online.
