Erie's Fastest Way Across the Bay

Does the water taxi run every day of the week?

We operate Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday, and Monday. We are closed on Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

What time does the first taxi leave Dobbins Landing?

The first taxi leaves Dobbins Landing at 12:00 PM noon.

What time is the last boat back from the park?

During summer months, our last trip from Waterworks Ferry Dock is at 6:30 PM, unless previously coordinated with a captain. Please email info@presqueislewatertaxi for further information.

How often does the boat pick up at Waterworks?

The taxi arrives at the bottom of the hour, every hour, at Waterworks Ferry Dock.

Does the taxi run on a strict schedule, or do I have to call for a pickup?

We run on a scheduled loop service; you do not need to call for a pickup unless you have a large group.

Is the schedule different on weekends vs. weekdays?

As the weather improves toward summer, we begin operating later into the evening. Please refer to our website for specific dates.

Do you run on holidays like the 4th of July?

Yes, we operate on holidays with special events, though schedules may vary. Please refer to our website for details.

Are you open in the fall, or just the summer months?

We are open spring, summer, and fall — through September.

How late in the season do you operate?

We operate through September.

If I miss the last boat, is there another way back to the city?

If you miss the last boat, you will need to arrange a ride (taxi/Uber) or ride your bike back around the peninsula (approx. 13 miles).

How much is a one-way ticket to the park?

A one-way ticket is $8 for adults, $6 for seniors and veterans (with ID), $2 for youth (ages 7–12), free for children 6 and under, and $5 per bike.

Children ride for free — is there a reduced rate for youth?

Children 6 and under ride for free! Youth (ages 7–12) are $2. Standard adult tickets are $8 one-way or $16 round-trip.

Is there a discount for seniors or veterans?

Yes, seniors and veterans with ID are discounted at $12 for a round trip and $6 for a one-way.

Are there discounts for teachers, seniors, military, or government workers?

Seniors and veterans with valid ID receive discounted fares. Every Friday, round-trip water taxi tickets are free, sponsored by the Erie Community Foundation. Please contact us to confirm any additional discounts.

Can I buy a round-trip ticket, or do I just pay each time I board?

Round trip tickets are available and the most preferred method of cruising with us.

Can I buy tickets online ahead of time?

Yes, this is the preferred method for purchasing tickets. We also have tickets for sale at the taxi.

Do you accept credit cards on the boat, or is it cash only?

We accept major credit cards on board. We do not carry cash.

Do I need to make a reservation, or is it first-come, first-served?

We encourage you to book tickets to ride on a specific day using the online booking link. However, boarding for any particular time slot is first-come first-served.

Is the price the same if I just want to ride for a scenic tour and not get off?

Yes, the price is the same — you would want to purchase a Round-Trip ticket for this.

Do you offer a combo pass for the Bicentennial Tower?

Yes! We offer a Tower & Taxi Bundle that includes a trip up the tower and a round-trip on the water taxi. Prices are $19 for Adults, $17 for Seniors/Veterans, and $4 for Youth.

Do you offer sunset cruises?

Yes! We offer 2-hour Sunset Cruises on Fridays and Saturdays from 7:30 PM to 9:30 PM. Tickets are $15 for Adults, $10 for Youth (ages 7–12), and children 6 and under are free. Tickets available at presqueislewatertaxi.com.

Can I rent the water taxi for a private party or charter?

Yes! Private charters are available for up to 30 passengers. Rates are $1,000 for the first 2 hours, and $750 for each additional hour. You are welcome to bring your own food and drinks!

Do you offer refunds if the weather turns bad?

If we cease operations due to weather, refunds are issued. If operations continue as normal and you choose not to board, refunds will not be given.

Where does the water taxi go and where does it leave from?

The water taxi runs between Dobbins Landing on the Erie bayfront and the Water Works Ferry Dock on Presque Isle. Departures from Dobbins Landing are at the top of every hour (12 PM through 6 PM) and from the Water Works dock at the bottom of every hour (12:30 PM through 6:30 PM).

How long does the ride take from the city to the park?

The crossing across Presque Isle Bay typically takes about 25 to 30 minutes.

Where exactly at Dobbins Landing do we board?

Boarding is at the designated water taxi slip at Dobbins Landing (end of State Street).

What is the address and where do I park?

Boarding is at Dobbins Landing (5 State St, Erie, PA). Public parking is available nearby, though it can be busy during peak summer hours. At the park, parking is available near the Waterworks Ferry Dock area. Contact us to confirm the most current parking details.

Is there parking near the dock at Dobbins Landing?

Yes, there is public parking available near Dobbins Landing, though it can be busy during peak summer hours.

Is the drop-off point close to the beach?

Yes, the Waterworks dock is a short walk from Beach 7 and the bike path network.

Is the Waterworks ferry dock clearly marked?

Yes, there is signage at the Waterworks area indicating the ferry landing.

Does the boat stop at Liberty Park?

No, the taxi runs from Dobbins Landing to Waterworks dock and back.

Does the boat stop at Waterworks or the Lighthouse?

The primary scheduled stop is at the Waterworks Ferry Dock.

Does the route go past the Bicentennial Tower?

You will get a great view of the Bicentennial Tower as we depart from Dobbins Landing.

Can I take the boat one way and ride my bike back?

Yes, this is a very popular option! You can take the boat to Waterworks and bike back to the city (or vice versa).

Can I catch the boat from the park if I didn't take it there?

Yes, you can board at Waterworks for a one-way trip back to the city, provided there is space.

Can I bring my bicycle on the water taxi?

Yes, we are a bike-friendly service and bicycles are welcome on board.

Do I have to pay extra if I bring my bicycle?

Yes, bikes are welcome at $10 for a round trip and $5 for a one-way.

Is there a limit to how many bikes fit on the boat?

Yes, deck space is limited. We accommodate bikes on a first-come, first-served basis.

Does the boat ever get too full for bikes?

Yes, on busy weekends the bike racks/areas can fill up. We recommend arriving early.

Can I bring a bike trailer or a tandem bike?

No, unfortunately we do not have the capacity for tandem bikes or bike trailers.

Do I have to lift my own bike onto the boat?

Crew members are available to assist, but guests should be prepared to handle their own equipment.

Can I bring rollerblades or skateboards?

Yes, you can bring them, but you cannot use them on the boat or the dock.

Do you transport kayaks or paddleboards?

No, unfortunately we cannot accommodate kayaks or paddleboards.

Is there room for a stroller on the boat?

Yes, strollers are allowed. We recommend folding them if the boat is crowded.

Can I bring a cooler and beach chairs?

Yes, reasonable amounts of beach gear like coolers and chairs are allowed.

Is there a limit to how many bags I can bring for the beach?

There is no strict limit, but please be mindful that space is shared with other passengers.

Is the ride smooth, or does it get bumpy on the lake?

Presque Isle Bay is generally calmer than the open lake, but it can get choppy on windy days.

Is the boat covered in case it rains?

Yes, the vessel has a canopy to protect passengers from sun and light rain.

Is there a bathroom on the water taxi?

Yes, there is a restroom on board. It is small, so we advise using public facilities at Dobbins Landing or Waterworks before boarding.

Can we eat or drink while on the boat?

Yes, you are welcome to have snacks and drinks.

Is there music or a tour guide on the boat?

The captain and crew are knowledgeable about the area and often point out sights, but it is not a formal narrated tour.

Can I stand up to take photos during the ride?

Passengers are generally asked to remain seated while the boat is in motion for safety, but you may take photos from your seat.

Can I smoke or vape on the boat?

No, smoking and vaping are strictly prohibited on board.

Are dogs allowed on the water taxi?

Yes, service animals are welcome on board. If you are renting the taxi for a Private Charter, well-behaved, leashed dogs are also welcome on board.

Do we have to wear life jackets during the ride?

No, life jackets are stored on board for emergencies but are not required to be worn during normal operations.

Is the boat wheelchair or ADA accessible?

Unfortunately, the taxis are not ADA accessible at this time.

Is the water taxi safe for infants?

Yes, provided they have appropriate supervision. Please check our life jacket policy for infants before boarding.

Does the boat run if it is raining but not windy?

Yes, we typically run in light rain. We only cancel for high winds, lightning, or severe conditions.

How do I know if the water taxi is cancelled due to waves?

We post real-time updates on our social media pages (Facebook) and website if operations are suspended due to weather.

Do you post weather updates on Facebook or a website?

Yes, Facebook is our primary channel for immediate weather updates.

Will the Captain cancel the trip if it gets too foggy?

Yes, operations may be suspended if visibility is deemed unsafe by the Captain.

Is Lake Erie safe for small boats today?

Our captains monitor conditions constantly. If the taxi is running, it is safe. Conditions change rapidly on Lake Erie.

Is it colder on the water than on land?

Yes, it is often 10–15 degrees cooler on the water. We recommend bringing a light jacket.

What happens if a storm rolls in while I am at the park?

If the boat stops running due to a storm, you will need to arrange alternative land transportation back to the city.

Is there a number I can call to check the status before I drive down?

Yes, call us at (814) 505-1020 or email info@presqueislewatertaxi to check on current operations.