Cruising Fun: Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi

Over the years we've taken the Water Taxi quite a few times and have always enjoyed the ride. It's both a means of transportation and a fun way to spend the day.

It has about twelve stops in all and you can get on and off as many times as you'd like. Do some shopping on Las Olas or at the Galleria, grab a bite to eat somewhere or have a couple of cocktails.  It all depends on how you want to spend the day!

Although the water taxi is a bit expensive these days with an all-day adult pass priced at $22 (there are senior discounts, child fares, family rates and after 5 pm pricing -- none of which we were able to take advantage of) there are a few times a year when it is well worth the cost.

The first is just before the Fort Lauderdale International boat show takes place (which is usually towards the end of October). The water taxi's route gives you a close-up view of all the amazing yachts and sailboats that have sailed down to be displayed, traded and bartered by the world's rich and famous.

The second is at Christmas time because you get to see how the homeowners and mansion dwellers decorate for the Holidays.

We'd recommend starting your journey in full daylight and returning after dark so that you get to see the spectacle of Christmas lights in all their glory. We needed to get back early this time so we missed out.

It's really a great and relaxing way to spend the day. You also get to see the city from a completely different perspective.

You sail through both commercial and residential areas.

And don't be surprised if you come across a huge cruise ship along the way -- especially on a Sunday evening when they set sail from Port Everglades.

We like to take the taxi right through to the Las Olas Riverwalk area....

 And stop at Briny's Irish Pub for some food and drink before heading back.

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is a must-do for both tourists and residents. It's a bit expensive but if you time it right by taking it during the Boat Show or Holiday Season, you'll get way more bang for your buck!

Visit their website or call them at 954-467-6677