Water Taxi Users Going With the Flow

For Oxnard resident David Benoit and his son Isaac, the water taxi service has provided a relaxing way to enjoy the summer.

“Well, I don’t have a boat and although neither of us can swim, we still enjoy the water,” the elder Benoit said. “So the taxi was the best thing that could exist from my perspective.”

The C Street resident, who says he uses the service at least three times a week, was one of many cruising the waters around Channel Islands Harbor this week. The boats, operated by the Harbor Water Taxi service, have provided harbor visitors scenic tours and escorted passengers to restaurants and other destinations.

The taxi service, approved in the spring, has been a treat to most in the area. When plans for the service were approved, Ventura County Harbor Department Director Lyn Krieger said she was excited.

“The goal for the harbor is to ensure the reliability of the schedule and make the water taxi more attractive to both our residents and tourists,” Krieger said.

County supervisors said they supported the service as a great tourism tool.

“This will help bring in more tourists and give them the opportunity to enjoy the entire harbor without any constraints,” said Supervisor Kathy Long. “The harbor businesses are also in support of the new water taxi service,” Long said.

The service is available daily from noon to 10 p.m. Tickets cost $3 for a round trip.