A recently launched taxi water taxi service is hoping to provide a new and exciting way to travel around the Island.Bermuda Water Taxi, operated by Captain Ashley Simmons, quietly launched two weeks ago, servicing Dockyard, St George’s, Hamilton and the Great Sound.Capt Simmons said he had thought about introducing a water taxi to the Island for years, but only started serious work on the project three years ago.“The basic idea was to offer an alternative mode of transportation to visitors and locals alike, and of course to help the tourists get around,” he said. “I think there’s a niche that hasn’t been filled, and that’s what I’m hoping to do.”He said he pitched the idea to several local companies to sponsor the project, and was happy to get support from Bermuda CableVision, who have helped a great deal, he said.Compared to the Island’s taxi and ferry services, he said water taxis have the potential to offer the best of both worlds.Along with servicing the same ports as the Ferry Service, he said the water taxi can pick up or drop off customers at any public or private dock in the Great Sound.And he said the service can be much faster than taxis, with a trip from Dockyard to Hamilton taking around 17 minutes.“With a Water Taxi, tourists and locals can call for the taxi when needed or can make reservations for a pick-up,” he said.“And it’s on the water. You can’t beat that. I’m planning on doing most of the runs during the day, but I’m also hoping to do some runs during the night when things like Harbour Nights are on.”The water taxi itself is a 12-seat ridged inflatable which Capt Simmons proudly said was put together entirely in Bermuda.While the taxi has only made a handful of trips since its launch, he said the reaction so far has been nothing but positive.“They have all loved it. Everybody has been very supportive,” Capt Simmons said. “It has been slow so far, but I think I’m definitely ready for the season.”Capt Simmons said his only real concern is the weather.“The Great Sound can be great, but when the weather turns, it’s not so great,” he said. “The weather could make a big difference.”To book a water taxi, contact Bermuda Water Taxi at 535-5555.The service operates from 8am to 7pm daily with a cost of $10 to $20 depending on the destination.