The SBX Radar
Due to some pressing business in West Seattle over the past week (I’ve been hired by the feds to help ascertain the effects of the SBX Radar on over-sized genitalia), I have discovered a new form of mass transit. Namely, the West Seattle Water Taxi.
Water Taxi at Pier 50
Passenger Waiting Area and Restrooms
King County Water Taxi
King County Water Taxi
The Taxi departs from Pier 50, just south of the ferries, and docks in West Seattle’s Seacrest Park (named after the effervescent American Idol host).
Arrival into West Seattle
West Seattle's Seacrest Park - Fish and Chips
The trip between Downtown and West Seattle only takes about 15 minutes, but the view afforded during this brief cruise is quite breathtaking. The skyline, the Needle, the harbor, the Olympics, the Cascades, Magnolia, ships in the bay, sea life … it’s almost like a mini pleasure cruise.
Seattle Skyline
The Space Needle and Queen Anne
Sea Lions
Downtown Seattle Skyline
Magnolia
The Seattle Space Needle
During the summer months, the Water Taxi also provides an important link between Downtown and the stunning Alki Beach.
Alki from the Water Taxi
The inside of the Water Taxi has bathrooms and a small galley, and the ride is surprisingly smooth and quiet given the size of the vessel (that’s what she said). If the weather is agreeable, you can opt to sit on the outside observation deck located at the rear of the boat.
Inside the Water Taxi
Water Taxi Observation Deck
The Ferries and Skyline
One of the best things about the West Seattle Water Taxi is the cost. It’s only $3.00 (three bucks!!!) with an ORCA card, and if you come back within 90 minutes, the return trip is free.
How can you go wrong?
I would have to declare the Water Taxi a “must ride” for every tourist to Seattle, and I would also highly recommend it to residents who just need to get away for a little while. If you work in one of the nearby office towers, I cannot think of a better way to spend a lunch break.
If you’ve yet to ride The Taxi, by all means do so. When you get there, please, tell them Rex sent you.
For more information, visit: http://www.kingcounty.gov/transportation/kcdot/WaterTaxi/WestSeattleRoute.aspx
Water Taxi Schedule
I’m a Water Taxi regular and it’s great. I use it to get to Seahawk’s and Mariner’s games. Talk about saving money on parking. Try going from $30 to park near the stadiums to $3.00 on the Water Taxi with an Orca Card.