A new, free Miami Water Taxi service now connects Miami and Miami Beach. This initiative aims to ease traffic congestion, offering a car-free alternative for commuters utilizing Biscayne Bay. The service officially launched on Tuesday, January 20, 2026, marking a significant Miami transit update.
A New Miami Water Taxi Route for Miami and Miami Beach
Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner championed this project, viewing the Miami Water Taxi as a game-changer for mobility. The service aims to alleviate traffic on congested causeways and roadways. Miami Beach’s roadways are already at capacity, with only three causeways connecting it to the mainland. This new water taxi service leverages existing waterways, providing a reliable alternative for commuters seeking a Biscayne Bay commute.
Key Features of the Miami Water Taxi Service
The water taxis are 40-foot vessels, each capable of carrying up to 55 passengers. The ride across Biscayne Bay via this Miami Water Taxi takes about 20 minutes. Service operates from Maurice Gibb Memorial Park in Miami Beach, with the Miami side departure point at the Venetian Marina and Yacht Club. These locations are conveniently near existing trolley stops. The service uses Water Taxi of Miami Beach LLC as the operator for this vital Miami Water Taxi connection.
Schedule and Operations for the Miami Water Taxi
The Miami Water Taxi operates weekdays only, not running on weekends initially. Service hours are from 7 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. One vessel runs every 60 minutes from 7:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Afterward, two vessels increase frequency, running every 30 minutes from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. The last stop in Miami via the Miami Water Taxi is at 7:50 p.m..
Cost and Funding for the Miami Water Taxi
The total cost for the 2026 fiscal year for the Miami Water Taxi is just under $1.2 million. Funding comes equally from Miami Beach and a state grant. The current agreement is for five years, allowing ample time to assess ridership and impact for this essential Miami Water Taxi service.
Addressing Past Challenges with Miami Water Transit
Miami Beach has attempted water taxi services before. A pilot program in 2017 failed due to low ridership. The “Poseidon Ferry” faced similar issues in 2020 and 2022, also suffering from persistent maintenance problems in 2024 that caused service interruptions and failures. Reliability is a key focus for this new Miami Water Taxi service, aiming to be a true traffic congestion solution. Previous studies by Miami-Dade County also explored waterborne transit, identifying feasibility but also noting potential obstacles like environmental regulations and permitting for any Miami Water Taxi operation.
Future Expansion of the Miami Water Taxi Network
City leaders are optimistic about this new Miami Water Taxi venture. Mayor Meiner expects incredible ridership. Expansion plans are already being considered, which could include north-south service within Miami Beach. Service along the Indian Creek waterway is also possible with more funding for additional Miami Water Taxi vessels. The service aims to be a permanent part of Miami Beach’s transportation network, a significant Miami transit update. It targets commuters, tourists, and event traffic, presenting a viable transportation headline for the region and a potential free transit Miami option for many.
This initiative reflects a broader trend, with many cities exploring waterways for transit. Water transit can supplement existing infrastructure, offering a sustainable, efficient option. The success of this free Miami Water Taxi service could inspire more such projects, offering a promising solution to ongoing traffic woes. This news provides an update on Miami’s evolving transit landscape, highlighting the benefits of a robust Miami Water Taxi system and considering it a key element of Miami Beach transportation.
