jbee

What is a water taxi like? Is it similar to a speed boat? I've seen pictures of the Actv water buses, but no taxis...

This may sound like a silly question, but this will be the first boat ride for my DH. I'd rather have an exhilirating ride on a taxi instead of plodding along on the Alilaguna boat, but he's not so sure. I'm looking for a picture or description, so I convince him it's the only way to arrive in Venice. Thanks again for your help!

Lorenzi

They would essentialy be speed boats. Single engine craft 15-20 ft as an average. Some are weather worn craft others are very old , full teak and other woods, very well kept up. For most canals the taxis don't go much faster then the water buses, except the stopping of course. If you want a wide open ride , best chance is between the islands of Venice, Burano, Murano, Torcello and such.

Grasshopper

jbee, You bring up a very good point. My first glimpse of Venice was from the back of a water taxi, as a group of 4 of us went along the Grand Canal from the train station to Hotel Londra, near St. Mark's Square. It was exhilirating, not because it went fast, but because it was a classy way to be experiencing that first magical moment. You're right, the Alilaguna boats are functional but plodding (and VERY noisey!)

Byrd

The water taxi we took from the airport was indeed a speedboat, with enclosed seating for the eight of us and our luggage.

There were windows for a great view approaching Venice.

It was wonderful! We all agreed that it was absolutely worth the money!

We paid $15 a person, which included a nice tip.

Byrd

jbee

Thanks for all the responses! I definitely want to go with a taxi, but since it's just 2 of us, cost is also a factor. Byrd, how many people did you have in your taxi? Were you all travelling together?

Does anyone ever match up while waiting for the taxis in order to "carpool"? I'd be willing to split our taxi with another couple, as long as all the details were hashed out before we got in. Is this a good idea?

nytraveler

They are not speed boats - they're motor launches with small cabins capable of carrying 8 or so people. If a cigarette boat is like a ferari these would be the equivalent of a family sedan. There will not be any "speeding" involved but it will be much more memorable than taking a "bus".

rex

<<Does anyone ever match up while waiting for the taxis in order to "carpool"?>>

Yes.

<<I'd be willing to split our taxi with another couple, as long as all the details were hashed out before we got in. Is this a good idea?>>

Try to "solicit" friends while waiting on your baggage. One or the other couple should take the risk/rewards of any surprise. Collect 80 or 100 euro to be split between however many people are traveling (do NOT count on a taxi to be willing to take more than six). Then that person only speaks for the group - - from the airport you will probably not end up with negotiable rate, nor the hustle that can happen at Piazzale Roma over "carrying your bags to the taxi launch". But there is a possibility of a (small) shakedown) as you depart over an unexpected extra or tip/service charge for bags or something. The one with the greatest comfort at saying no ought to be able to handle this - - and pocket any extra money, or have to pony up - - for standing tough (or giving in).

Best wishes,

Rex

DAJ

Although not having taken a water taxi, but planning on doing so on the next trip with hubby, mom & niece due to convenience these boats are "similar" to the older chris craft style of boat wit a cabin in the middle. They can be very nice in a classic way. (Think of the movie "On Golden Pond" but a bit larger with a cabin in the middle).

From a speed standpoint, I'm sure what they are allowed, as there is probably a speed limit on the canal (wake minimization). Being a boater myself, I am looking very forward to our experience next trip on a water taxi, as is the hubster. Our own boat will top out near 60 mph and I am interested in the speed these boat can reach, as my guess is 45 mph or slightly beyond.

Our location (apartment) and an elder parent, has made the decision of a water taxi over the Alilaguna + Water Bus combo an easy one.

nytraveler

Taking a boat in Venice is like driving a car in Rome - there is tons of traffic of all types (taxis, buses, delivery boats piled high with vegetables etc) - and there will be no speeding at all. You will get from one place to another much more conveniently than by taking a water bus - but your speed will be sedate at best.

ira

Hi jb,

Here is a pic from images at www.yahoo.com/

http://images.search.yahoo.com/searc...g&no=44&tt=104

RufusTFirefly

From the airport to the city, the water taxis move right along--much faster than a vaporetto or the Alilaguna. As others have pointed out, once they reach the canals, the speed limits are quite low. It is the absolute best way to enter Venice if you can afford it.

grosenb

Splurge and take the water taxi. As mentioned in the previous posts, they do not travel fast and its the best way to enter Venice. After using the vaporettos during my 4 day stay, I can say I would not take a vaparetto coming or leaving Venice. Depending on the time you arrive you might have to fight for space, then drag your suitcases up and over a few bridges while fighting the hordes of tourists.

I traveled to Venice in May, thinking the tourist season had not started, well was I in for a shock. Smartly, I took a water taxi from the train station to St Marks for 70E. I did not have to hassle with my luggage and arrived at my hotel without any stress.

Leaving Venice, my hotel called for a taxi pickup at their "door". Stepped through their door and away I went.

If $ is an issue, try using it only one way or both ways and eat pizza to save your money.

Have a wonderful trip

Gail

Lorac1127

We must have had a cowboy driving our water taxi...we had to hold on to our seats! Once we entered the smaller canals, he did slow down. In fact, he opened the sun roof so we could stand up and take photos. It was so thrilling!

The cost is 80 Euros, but there was no one at the dock when we arrived.

They bring you to the closest canal and give you directions to the hotel. Much better than dragging your luggage on crowed boats and over bridges. The money is so well-spent.

kmoncrief

we just came back,there was no one to partner up with,as I was expecting,we were the only ones for the taxi or ferry.80 Euros and yes to the closest drop off with a "your hotel is 50 yds that way" which of course since Id been on here long enough I knew it wasnt! But it was fine,we were 'in Venice'.

Lorac1127

"What is a water taxi like? Is it similar to a speed boat?"

jbee, going through my photos, I noticed a few water taxi shots as we were arriving. Here is one:

http://www.slowtrips.com/photo/showp...at=3197&page=1