If you’re planning to visit Downtown St. Augustine this weekend and don’t want to deal with traffic or parking, there’s a new option.
St. Augustine WAXI- a water taxi that normally runs service by reservation- is testing out a Saturday shuttle. The service runs between the Vilano Pier and Municipal Marina, from 11AM to 6:15PM, from Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day weekend.
“Come on down to the Vilano Pier and catch a ride Downtown to enjoy Downtown,” says St. Augustine WAXI owner and operator Captain Tony Fornier.
Fornier says they have been operating as a reservation-based water taxi for about two years, but decided to test out the non-reservation shuttle route for a few reasons. He says people living in Vilano wanted an easier way to get Downtown, and he says the City also wants to see if this is a viable transportation option.
“Aid with the mobility issues here in St. Augustine,” he says.
While he says the City is interested in testing this option, there is no City funding going toward the service.
Currently, the water taxi can hold six people. Fornier says, if demand warrants, he has the ability to bring in a second vessel.
“We’re hoping that, with this shuttle program, a lot of people will realize that the need is there for transportation between the Vilano Pier and Downtown,” he says.
While they are currently planning to run through Labor Day, he says he’s also open to other busy seasons like with music festivals or Nights of Lights.
The service costs $8 per person one way, or $14 per person round trip. The business also continues to operate as a reservation-based water taxi Sunday through Friday at the same rate. Drop offs are at various water front restaurants and marinas. You can make a reservation by calling or texting 904-923-WAXI, or booking online.