By: Andrew Silverstein

With all the great nightlife and restaurants on the water in Tampa, it seems fitting for our water-bound city to have some kind of public transportation to take residents from one waterfront location to another via, well, the water.

That's where the Tampa Water Taxi comes in. Basically, the name explains it all; they pick you up at one of their designated waterfront locations throughout the Hillsborough Bay, you pay the fare, and you're off to any waterfront location in the designated area including many Downtown hotels, waterfront homes on Davis and Harbour island, and restaurants like Jackson's Bistro and Rick's on the River.

Fares are $5 per person for a one way trip, and $10 for the round trip. An unlimited ride ticket is $30 per person per day.

The water taxi also hosts an overwhelming variety of tours throughout the Bay Area. Choose from day (45 min.) or night (60 min.) Harbour Tours for $20 and $25 respectively, or, opt for the 75 minute wine, water, and music tour with that special someone for $40 each.

There's also a Hillsborough River Eco-Tour that runs Monday through Friday at 9 or 10 a.m for $40 a person.

Children will get a kick out of the Children's Pirate Treasure Hunt that runs on Sundays and only costs $60 for a family of four. On this trip they'll get their own treasure map to keep while the crew helps them find and dig up a hidden treasure chest that, if found, they'll split over provided grub and drink.

As you've probably noticed, the Tampa Water Taxi is quite the versatile vehicle and a great service to the Tampa community. Support them and enjoy all Tampa has to offer in a new and unique way.

For more information, visit the Tampa Water Taxi website here or call 888-665-8687.