Although we've lived in West Seattle for several years, it wasn't until last summer that I got into the Water Taxi Habit. We live just far enough from the Seacrest dock that it never seemed to be anything more than a bus alternative, but once I actually rode the thing, I realized that speed is not the point of getting on the little boat. 

Now I am an avowed fan of the Elliott Bay Water Taxi, which shuttles between Argosy's Pier 55 downtown and the dock at Seacrest Park, with the benefit of a free shuttle from the dock to the Alaska and Admiral Junctions in West Seattle.

Service resumes this weekend (April 27), and I am seriously excited. The only drawback that I can figure out is that the shuttle does not take riders immediately from the dock to Alki, instead requiring a full loop around the junctions before dropping passengers off at the beach. We made the mistake of thinking it would be a quick walk last summer, only to realize that two miles when it is muggy and you are carrying a baby and a diaper bag is, um, not so fun. Still! The point here is the boat ride.

There is something at once very urban and delightfully archaic about riding a boat to and from the city. The ride is only 12 minutes long, just long enough to be fun without making you antsy. The view from the rooftop deck, which is amply outfitted in chairs, is stunning, and even though Gub was only one when we were riding last year, she enjoyed seeing the other boats and the big buildings. This year I think whe will be thrilled to ride.

At only $3 a ride, which includes a transfer so that you can hop on a bus, it really is the sweetest, cheapest boat ride in town. Now if only the warm part of Spring would get here so we could ride the taxi sans scarf!

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