Friday November 21, 2008 Current Conditions: 35° Overcast
Ed Kane's Water Taxi


Baltimore, MD 21202
(410) 5633901
www.thewatertaxi.com/

Looking for a convenient way to get around town? Or maybe you don't really need to go anywhere specific but you would like something out of the ordinary to do. If that's the case then the Water Taxi may be just the ticket you're looking for. The next time you visit the harbor area take the opportunity to get a glimpse of downtown Baltimore from the bow of Ed Kane's Water Taxi.

There are 14 different landings along the waterfront where you can catch a ride. Every boat is clearly marked with their distinguished blue and white paint scheme. The service runs continuously during their hours of operation which vary depending on the season and the day. The taxis operate along a route similar to a bus line. As of this writing a day pass which allows you to cruise all day long can be had for only eight dollars. If you've ever had a boat you can appreciate how much of a bargain this price is. One ride on the harbor alone is well worth the time and money spent, but you also can't beat it for avoiding downtown traffic when going from one side of the harbor to the other.

The Water Taxi is run today by Cammie Kane, who continues the work of her departed husband, Water Taxi founder Ed Kane. They have been in business for over 25 years and have carried millions of passengers since the first taxi crossed the Patapsco. During the Summer they run 14 boats of various sizes to accommodate the throngs of Inner Harbor visitors. In the off season the operation is scaled back, but the service never is. You can always count on a friendly taxi captain or mate to help you with local questions or advice on the best crab house, who has the coldest draft beer, or where to find an ice cream cone.

Patrons also receive a book of coupons, dubbed Letters of Marquee, to local merchants, restaurants, bars, and attractions. The Letters of Marquee make it possible for the fare to more than pay for itself during a day of sightseeing.

Baltimore residents also find the Water Taxi to be a great service. For regular customers the Water Taxi offers an annual frequent floater pass for $80. The pass gets you a discounted rate on the daily fare. The Frequent Floater Pass also allows you to use the taxi's morning commuter service, ask a crew member for more details.

The Water Taxi bills itself as relaxation transportation and it is a fitting description. It is the perfect way to see all of the sites in Baltimore including the Inner Harbor, Fort McHenry, Fells Point, Canton, Little Italy and Federal Hill.

Ed Kane's Water Taxi Map