Operating a water-based transit system in Florida comes with unique challenges. Hurricanes, flooding, and saltwater corrosion frequently tested the durability of both boats and infrastructure. Hurricane Andrew (1992) and later storms like Wilma (2005) caused significant damage to docks and vessels, forcing the company to rebuild and innovate. Ec
The 1990s: Expansion and Reinvention
The 1990s marked a period of growth and reinvention for the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi. With the city’s tourism booming and cruise ship traffic increasing through Port Everglades, the need for efficient and enjoyable transport became more apparent. Investors and civic leaders recognized that the Water Taxi could serve a dual purpose: transport
Early Transportation and the Need for Water Mobility
By the mid-20th century, Fort Lauderdale’s population had exploded, especially after World War II. Returning veterans, retirees, and northern investors flocked to South Florida, seeking sunshine and waterfront living. The resulting urban growth led to heavy congestion on roads like Las Olas Boulevard and A1A. At the same time, the popularity o
The History of the Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi
Introduction: The City That Floats on Water Few cities in the world embody the harmony between land, water, and lifestyle quite like Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Nicknamed the “Venice of America,” this coastal city is defined not by its roads or highways, but by its intricate network of canals—over 300 miles of them—woven through neighborhood