Those who have recently moved to Jacksonville are often impressed with the city’s beaches and waterways. The city boasts miles of sand and has plenty of canals and lakes, and the Jacksonville Water Taxi offers a unique way to get around town. While the water taxi is a great way for new residents to enjoy the riverside, it may not be operational for much longer.
Lakeshore Marine, which began managing the water taxi last year, has a contract with the city of Jacksonville that is soon to expire. The management company is currently in negotiations with the city to continue service, but the Jacksonville Water Taxi has had trouble getting enough passengers to keep it going. Ridership has been steadily decreasing, and the service averages about 30 people per week. Ridership spikes dramatically when there is a Jaguars game at EverBank Field, but the Jacksonville Water Taxi cannot continue to rely on game days.
The Jacksonville water taxi is a 15 to 20 minute ride around St. John’s River that stops at five points of interest; including: Jacksonville Landing, the Friendship Fountain, the Crowne Plaza, the Wyndham, and the Jacksonville Municipal Marina. The water taxi can accommodate about 100 people.
If you have recently moved to the area, your Jacksonville moving company recommends that you try to catch a ride on the water taxi while you still can. Kids under three ride free, and the Jacksonville Water Taxi is a great way for them to get excited about their new home!