Ft Lauderdale Water taxis info please

Question

Hello, we're going there this Friday, our 1st time & we're trying to wrap our heads around this. We're staying at Hollywood Beachside Resort, so we'll get on the WT at Margaritaville which is the most south stop of the route, it'll take us to Hilton Marina & we get off to get on another WT for Ft Lauderdale (F1-F10) to go north? And if we want to go further than it's Pompano Beach route. We don't have to pay more as these are all transfers right? We want to see the finger islands/mansions etc. so which is the best WT (name of the route) to take? We don't plan on getting off much, just want to take in the scenery & the history. What is the cost of the WT please for people over 65? And what is the usual wait time for the taxi to arrive at a stop? Hope they give us a map to the stops. We're only in FL for a full day before the cruise so that's our only chance to see it. Thanks!

Answer

The Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi is a flexible and scenic way to explore the Intracoastal Waterway, the Finger Islands, and the mansions along the waterfront. Since you’re staying at Hollywood Beachside Resort, your starting point at the Margaritaville stop is convenient, as it is the southernmost stop on the Hollywood Beach route.

The Water Taxi system is divided into several routes covering different areas. For your plan to see Fort Lauderdale’s sights and the Finger Islands without frequent stops, you can follow this route:

Board at Margaritaville (Hollywood Beach) and travel south to the Hilton Marina (if needed, you can transfer here).
From Hilton Marina, you can board the main Fort Lauderdale route (F1–F10 stops) heading north. This route runs along the Intracoastal Waterway, passing the famous Finger Islands, historic mansions, and yacht-lined canals. This is the route that best suits sightseeing without frequent stops.
If you wish to continue further north beyond Fort Lauderdale, the Pompano Beach route extends the journey, but it requires a transfer at the north end of the Fort Lauderdale route.

Transfers between routes are included in the standard fare, so you don’t need to pay extra for changing boats along the way. The Water Taxi operates on a hop-on, hop-off system, but for your purpose of just riding and enjoying the scenery, you can remain on board for the full route.

Regarding fares, as of current rates:

Adults (19–64): Approximately $32 for a 24-hour pass
Seniors (65+): Usually around $23–25 for a 24-hour pass, though it’s best to confirm at the ticket booth or online for exact senior pricing

Typical wait times for a Water Taxi vary depending on the stop and time of day. On weekdays or non-peak hours, boats generally arrive every 30–60 minutes. During peak tourist times or weekends, the frequency may increase to every 20–30 minutes. Most stops provide a schedule and maps, and you can also pick up a route map at the ticket booth or from the Water Taxi staff.

For your one full day in Florida before your cruise, it’s best to start mid-morning at Margaritaville, take the northbound Fort Lauderdale route, enjoy the scenic ride past the mansions and Finger Islands, and plan to return southbound at your convenience. This gives you a relaxing and comprehensive view of Fort Lauderdale’s waterways and waterfront attractions without needing to get off at multiple stops.

Ft Lauderdale Water taxis info please

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