Answers to Your Frequently Asked Question about Shoreline Water Taxis
Questions
- WHAT WATER TAXI SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?
- WHERE DO THE WATER TAXIS GO?
- HOW MANY PEOPLE DO THE WATER TAXIS CARRY?
- HOW OFTEN DO THE TAXIS RUN?
- HOW LONG IS THE COMMUTER TAXI TRIP?
- CAN I BRING A BABY STROLLER ON BOARD?
- CAN I BRING MY BIKE ON BOARD?
- CAN I BRING FOOD ON BOARD?
- ARE YOUR BOATS HANDICAP-ACCESSIBLE?
- ARE WATER TAXI RESERVATIONS AVAILABLE?
- DO YOU RUN IF IT RAINS?
- ARE WATER TAXIS COVERED?
- ARE THERE RESTROOMS ON THE WATER TAXIS?
- WHAT ABOUT GROUP SALES?
- DO YOU SELL ANY MULTI-RIDE TICKETS?
- CAN I USE MY METRA CARD?
- HOW LONG HAS SHORELINE BEEN IN BUSINESS?
- IS YOUR SERVICE DEPENDABLE?
- WHAT OTHER SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?
- DO YOU OFFER CHARTERS?
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WHAT WATER TAXI SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?
Shoreline water taxis run general service for visitors and Chicagoans on two routes: the Harbor Taxi on Lake Michigan and the River Taxi on the Chicago River. We also operate commuter water taxi service on the Chicago River between Sears Tower/Union Station and the Michigan Avenue Bridge.
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WHERE DO THE WATER TAXIS GO?
The Harbor Taxi goes across Lake Michigan between Navy Pier and the Museum Campus (Shedd Aquarium and Field Museum). The River Taxi goes between Navy Pier and our dock at Sears Tower/Union Station or between Navy Pier and our dock at the Michigan Avenue bridge. The commuter taxis goes between Sears Tower/Union Station and the Michigan Avenue bridge. see map
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HOW MANY PEOPLE DO THE WATER TAXIS CARRY?
Shoreline’s taxi fleet includes eight smaller water taxis, each with a capacity of approximately 40 passengers. In 2007, we commissioned and built our new water taxi, Giddy Up, which carries up to 88 passengers. We also have the option of transporting our commuters on some of our larger tour vessels, ensuring we can accommodate all levels of taxi traffic.
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HOW OFTEN DO THE TAXIS RUN?
General taxis service operates daily at least every twenty minutes from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm from Memorial Day to Labor Day and weekends in September.
Commuter Water Taxi Service runs on a continual basis from 7:00 -9:30 am and 4:00 – 6:30 pm Monday – Friday from mid-March to mid-October. Spring and fall schedule is weather permitting.
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HOW LONG IS THE COMMUTER TAXI TRIP?
The commuter trip is approximately 12 minutes one way.
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CAN I BRING A BABY STROLLER ON BOARD?
Yes.
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CAN I BRING MY BIKE ON BOARD?
Bicycles may be brought on water taxis on a space available basis and at the discretion of the captain. Certain restrictions may apply.
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CAN I BRING FOOD ON BOARD?
Yes, passengers may bring food and soft drinks. No alcoholic beverages may be brought on board.
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ARE YOUR BOATS HANDICAP-ACCESSIBLE?
Our Water Taxis are not handicap accessible. If you have additional questions please call.
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ARE WATER TAXI RESERVATIONS AVAILABLE?
The Water Taxis operate as public transportation similar to busses. All tickets are sold in person at our Shoreline kiosks. Commuters may purchase round trip tickets during morning hours at the either the Sears Tower/Union Station or the Michigan Avenue kiosk. Ten trip commuter passes are sold at all dock locations.
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DO YOUR TAXIS RUN IF IT RAINS?
We will usually run if it rains. We always abide by the Coast Guard weather advisories if the weather turns stormy. If cruises or taxi services are canceled due to stormy weather, refunds will be issued for pre-purchased tickets.
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ARE YOUR WATER TAXIS COVERED?
The smaller water taxis are somewhat covered but open to the elements. Our new taxi, Giddy Up, offers complete coverage.
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ARE THERE RESTROOMS ON THE TAXIS?
Some offer restrooms, however, most do not so please plan ahead.
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WHAT ABOUT GROUP SALES
Special Water Taxi rates are available for groups of 40 or more with advance reservations. Access detailed information through Shoreline’s Group Sales on our web site, www.shorelinesightseeing.com or call Sarah at 312-373-7256 to see if your group qualifies.
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DO YOU SELL ANY MULTI-RIDE TICKETS?
We sell 10 ride passes for commuter service only. These can be purchased at our dock locations.
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CAN I USE MY METRA CARD?
No, not at this time.
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HOW LONG HAS SHORELINE BEEN IN BUSINESS?
Shoreline was founded in 1939 with one touring vessel giving Lake Michigan boat tours. We are now in our third generation of family ownership, with the largest touring fleet in Chicago.
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IS YOUR SERVICE DEPENDABLE?
Yes, because we offer the largest boat fleet in Chicago and can provide unparalleled service!
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WHAT OTHER SERVICES DO YOU OFFER?
Shoreline Sightseeing offers one hour Architecture Cruises on the Chicago River led by professional docents. We also offer thirty-minute Skyline Boat Tours on Lake Michigan, featuring a professional narration on the city’s history and landmarks along Chicago’s famous skyline.
return to questions DO YOU OFFER CHARTERS?
Yes, Shoreline offers private charters for 50 to 250 guests aboard a choice of premier vessels. We can handle all arrangements including bar packages, catering, music and many charter add-ons to make your event complete. Contact our Charter Sales Director at 312.222.9328 ext. 2232 or visit Shoreline Charters & Events.
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Answers