Under Armour founder Kevin Plank hopes to buy the company that operates Baltimore's Water Taxis, Harbor Boating Inc. Harbor Boating was founded in the 1970s and has been the city's sole water taxi operator since 2005. The company operates both the water taxi, which caters to tourists, and the free Harbor Connector Service for commuters. According to the Baltimore Sun, the Board of Estimates is expected to approve an agreement that would give Harbor Boating exclusive rights to the city's docks and wharves for at least 20 years, renewable for up to 10 more.
New water taxi design to be launched by Sagamore Ventures. Photo courtesy Baltimore Sun
New water taxi design to be launched by Sagamore Ventures. Photo courtesy Baltimore Sun
Plank's firm, Sagamore Ventures, is expected to purchase Harbor Boating as the city agrees to award the firm another long-term contract to operate passenger service around the Inner Harbor. The purchase is expected to close in 30 days if the city contract is approved. Sagamore plans to add new boats to the line, more stops, longer hours, and an on-demand offering in conjunction with Uber. The goal is also to bridge the gap between the $8 one-way tourist prices and the commuter-friendly fares. Price changes are expected to appear next spring. The first new vessel in the line, which will be able to carry about 50 people, should be ready for launch this fall.