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Frequently Asked Questions

What are your hours of operation?

The Island Connector operates Sunday – Thursday from 12:05 p.m. – 8:45 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 12:05 p.m. – 9:45 p.m.

The River Route operates Sunday – Thursday from 11:30 a.m. – 9:30 p.m.; Friday and Saturday from 11:30 a.m.- 10:30 p.m.

*Hours are subject to change without notice and for inclement weather/lightning.

Where do the Water Taxis go?

There are numerous Pirate Water Taxi stops throughout Downtown Tampa including the Channel District, Tampa Riverwalk, and Davis & Harbour Islands.

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are not required. You may purchase tickets ahead of time online, but the Water Taxis board on a first-come, first-served basis.

Where can I purchase tickets?

You can purchase tickets on board the Water Taxis, online, or at our ticket booth at Stop 7.

What is the cancellation policy?

Pirate Water Taxi tickets are non-refundable and non-transferable.

How much is admission for children?

To see current prices, click here. 

Do the taxis run if it rains?

Pirate Water Taxi service is weather dependent and will be suspended for lightning, heavy rain, and high winds. It is up to the Captain to decide whether conditions are unsafe and to delay or cancel the cruise accordingly. If cruises are canceled due to stormy weather, or any other reason, rain checks will be issued to allow you to return on another day. Please check the homepage of our website for up-to-date weather advisory information.

What is the Rain Day Guarantee? 

Our Rain Day Guarantee means if a rain storm has caused Pirate Water Taxi to stop services for more than an hour, we invite you to return the next day. Learn more by clicking here.

Where is your ticket booth located?

At our Convention Center dock on the Tampa Riverwalk, in front of the Sail Pavilion between the Tampa Convention Center and the Marriott Water Street.

Where do we board the boat?

You can board the boat at any Pirate Water Taxi stop location (view map here).  You must call (813) 223-7999 for pick-up.

Where is the best place to park? 

There are a few parking garages located in close proximity to our home dock (stop #7) behind The Tampa Convention Center and the Sail Pavilion. We recommend parking in the Tampa Convention Center Garage, Pam Iorio Park Garage, or Fort Brooke Garage, just to name a few.

Where do we pick up the tickets?

Tickets can be picked up at our Convention Center dock on the Riverwalk, or on board any of our Water Taxis. Please have an email confirmation ready.

Are there age limitations for unaccompanied children?

Children aged 13 or under must be accompanied by someone 14 years of age or older when riding the Pirate Water Taxi. Children 14 and up can ride unaccompanied.

Am I guaranteed a seat in the taxi if I pre-purchase?

We are unable to guarantee spots in the event that the boat is at capacity. In the event the boat is at capacity, you may transfer your ticket to a different day.

Are there life jackets on board?

We are U.S. Coast Guard certified and have adult and child life jackets onboard every Water Taxi.

How many people fit in the taxi?

Our largest Water Taxi, Captain Jack II, holds 100 passengers, and Pirate Pat holds 46 total passengers. Latitude Lindsey holds 34 passengers, Matey Mason holds a maximum of 29 passengers and Buccaneer Britt holds 24 passengers. For more information,  view the Water Taxi fleet.

Can you pick up large groups? 

Yes, but the capacity of our boats is limited by the Coast Guard. Once the boats have filled, that is it. We cannot guarantee your entire group will get on at one time. We recommend that you contact our sales department to find out about group charter rates and availability.

Are your boats covered?

Yes, our Water Taxis are covered, however, they are open-air on the sides except for Captain Jack II. Please dress accordingly.

Do your boats go to St. Pete?

No.

Do your boats go to the zoo?

Our zoo route was discontinued in 2017, however, we still can run trips to the zoo for private charters if a group is interested.

Is there anything to eat or drink on the boats?

Bottled water, soda, beer, seltzers, and wine are available for purchase.

Can you bring outside food or alcohol?

Tampa Riverwalk cups are allowed.

Are there restrooms on the boat?

Captain Jack II, Pirate Pat, Latitude Lindsey, and Matey Mason all have a restroom. Buccaneer Britt does not have a restroom.

Do you take photographs? 

On occasion, the Pirate Water Taxi will have a photographer on board to take photos for promotional purposes. If you do not wish for your photo to be taken, please let the photographer or a member of our staff know.

Are your boats wheelchair accessible?

All of our Water Taxis are wheelchair accessible, however not all dock locations are accessible. We recommend calling in advance so we can help to accommodate you: (813) 223-7999.

Do you allow dogs on board?

While Pirate Water Taxi loves dogs, we carry too many people to be able to oversee animals as well. Only registered service animals are permitted.

Are strollers allowed on the boat?

They are permitted but must be folded up and stored during the ride.

Do you allow bikes on board?

Bikes are not allowed on board.  However, bikes can be stored (at your own risk) at our Convention Center dock while on a cruise.

Can we bring a cooler?

Small coolers (lunch box sized) are allowed to store milk, water, and juice boxes. Soda and alcoholic beverages are not permitted to be brought to the Water Taxi in a personal cooler.

Can we bring luggage aboard the taxi?

No. Due to limited space and the enjoyment of all passengers, luggage is not permitted on the Water Taxi.

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