Miami Beach Launches Free Water Taxi Service to Downtown Miami Starting January 2026

Miami Beach is making it easier for locals and visitors to hit the shores and explore other destinations by launching a free commuter water taxi service connecting the city with downtown Miami.

After a successful run among tens of thousands of Art Basel attendees for two straight years, City Commission voted to approve an agreement with Water Taxi of Fort Lauderdale LLC to operate a permanent route. The service aims to ease traffic congestion while providing an efficient, eco-friendly mode of transit.

Set to begin on January 20, 2026, the 40-foot vessels will run Monday through Friday between Venetian Marina & Yacht Club in downtown Miami and Maurice Gibb Memorial Park in Sunset Harbour. The service will not initially operate on weekends.

**Water Taxi Schedule:**

- 7 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.: Departures every 60 minutes

- 4:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.: Departures every 30 minutes (rush hour frequency)

"I've been actively working to bring a free water taxi to Miami Beach — a game-changing initiative that can alleviate traffic congestion through cleaner, more efficient transit," said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. "It's an exciting time to move forward with mobility projects that truly improve the quality of life for our residents and visitors."

Officials anticipate a potential north-south expansion along the Indian Creek waterway if future funding permits.

The water taxi complements the city's existing free trolley system and on-demand Freebee service in parts of Mid Beach and North Beach, creating seamless transit connections across Miami Beach. Visit the City of Miami Beach official website for more information.