Water taxis now running after 2 months

Changes in effect for Jaguars games with only 2 taxis running

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The Jacksonville water taxis are now back in service after more than two months.

For those planning on taking one for the Jaguars games, there are some changes this year. There are four stops: along the Southbank at Friendship Fountain and the Wyndham hotel by the Duval County School Board building, and on the Northbank at the Jacksonville Landing and Metropolitan Park.

"It's been a little hectic, but at the same time it is well worth it, and we are glad to get it working," said Ron Hilliard, the new operator. "We did not want to miss any Jag games and now we are not going to."

The routes are no longer direct because there are only two water taxis instead of five.

If you get on at the Landing, you will go to Friendship Fountain, the Wyndham and then Metro Park.

For special events, it's a one-way trip, costing $5 for adults and $4 for kids.

"We have done away with the old transfer system where you used to have to get off the boat and get on another boat to get to the stadium," Hilliard said. "Once you get on a boat, you will ride that boat all the way to the stadium."

Because of construction on the Southbank Riverwalk, there is a temporary stand set up in front of the Wyndham, where parking is $5. Parking at the school board building is free.

The question is, what will happen after the game when everyone wants to get on board at the same time?

"Well, we are hoping that the game is so great, that is what's going to cause problems with lines, with people getting on the water taxes," said Capt. Jim Suber of the Jacksonville Waterways Commission. "That is OK. We are just hoping that they will come and be patient getting on and we'll get them on."


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