Water Taxi Gdansk: Comprehensive Guide to RIB Cruises from Gdansk and the Surrounding Area
- Damian Brzeski
- Feb 28
- 15 min read
Did you know that a water taxi ride from Gdańsk to Hel can take just 65 minutes? It's not only the fastest way to get to the Hel Peninsula, but also a unique attraction in itself!
Comfortable RIB motorboats, scenic routes on the Bay of Gdansk and flexible cruise times make water taxis an ideal solution for tourists and residents of the Tri-City. What are the most popular routes?
How much does such a trip cost? You will find the answers in our comprehensive guide!
What is a water taxi in Gdansk?
Water taxi in Gdańsk is a modern and fast alternative to traditional land transport.
This service is becoming increasingly popular among both tourists and Tricity residents who value comfort and the ability to avoid traffic jams.
Characteristics of the Water Taxi Service and Its Popularity
Water taxi Gdańsk operates on the basis of private cruises, which can be booked for specific routes or in the form of individual orders.
This is an ideal solution for people who want to quickly get to places like Hel, Jastarnia, Kuźnica or Chałupy, while enjoying picturesque views.
What makes water taxi services so popular? First of all:
Speed – cruises are much shorter than traveling by car during the summer season when roads are congested.
Scenic route – a journey along the waters of the Bay of Gdańsk provides unforgettable experiences.
Exclusivity – private cruises provide comfort and flexibility in planning your trip.
Access to attractions – water taxis allow you to quickly reach tourist attractions such as Westerplatte or Marina Gdynia.
RIB motorboats as the main means of transport?
Most companies offering water taxis in Gdańsk use RIB motorboats, i.e. fast, agile boats with a reinforced structure.
Thanks to this, cruises are not only dynamic, but also safe, even in difficult weather conditions. The fastest water taxi, for example offered by FORMOZA RIB, can reach from Gdańsk to Hel in just a few dozen minutes!
RIB motorboats are used by companies such as:
FORMOZA RIB – known for extremely fast cruises
Contact: +48 515 297 207
Baywatch – specializing in routes around the Bay of Gdansk and Puck
Contact: +48 511 488 499
RIBY.pl – serving connections to the Hel Peninsula
Contact: +48 606 262 497
Thanks to them, a trip by water taxi becomes not only a means of transport, but also a unique attraction of Gdańsk.
The most popular water taxi routes
One of the greatest advantages of the Gdańsk water taxi is the possibility of quick and comfortable travel between key seaside towns.
In the summer season, when the roads are congested, a trip by RIB motorboat allows you to save a lot of time and enjoy unforgettable views of the Bay of Gdansk.
Cruises from Gdansk to the Hel Peninsula
One of the most popular routes is a water taxi from Gdańsk to the Hel Peninsula . Depending on the company and weather conditions, the trip takes 60 to 65 minutes .
This is a huge time saving compared to a car journey, which can take up to several hours during the peak season!
The most popular destinations include:
Water taxi to Hel – a quick and convenient option for tourists who want to visit the sealarium, lighthouse or Coastal Defense Museum.
Water taxi to Jastarnia – an ideal solution for windsurfing and kitesurfing enthusiasts.
Water taxi to Kuźnica and Chałupy – a great option for those who value quieter beaches and an intimate atmosphere.
Connections between Marina Gdańsk and Marina Gdynia
Thanks to the water taxi Gdynia and water taxi to Gdańsk, passengers can move freely between the two largest cities of the Tri-City. The route from Marina Gdańsk to Marina Gdynia takes an average of 30-40 minutes and allows you to admire seaside views without having to sit in traffic jams.
Routes to towns such as Hel, Jastarnia, Jurata and Chałupy
People looking for a unique way to reach the most beautiful beaches on the Bay of Gdańsk and the Bay of Puck can use the routes connecting the Tri-City with smaller seaside resorts.
Water taxi Tricity offers cruises to:
Jurata – an exclusive town with beautiful beaches and a famous pier
Jastarnia – a paradise for surfers and water sports enthusiasts
Chałupy and Kuźnica – peaceful places ideal for a relaxing holiday
Each of these routes provides not only fast transport, but also the opportunity to admire the picturesque landscapes of the waters of the Bay of Gdańsk.
Tourist attractions accessible by water taxi
Traveling by water taxi Gdańsk is not only a convenient way to get around, but also an opportunity to admire some of the most beautiful places on the Polish coast.
Thanks to fast cruises, passengers can reach unique attractions both in the Tricity and on the Hel Peninsula .
Sightseeing cruises on the Bay of Gdańsk and the Bay of Puck
One of the biggest attractions offered by the Tri-City water taxi is the scenic cruises on the Bay of Gdańsk and the Bay of Puck . This is a great option for people who want to see the coast from a completely different perspective.
During the cruise you can admire:
Panorama of Gdańsk, Sopot and Gdynia ,
Pier in Sopot – the longest wooden pier in Europe,
Kępa Redłowska – picturesque cliffs in Gdynia,
Hel Peninsula – a characteristic headland, perfect for drone photography,
The port of Hel and Jastarnia – full of atmospheric cutters and yachts.
For adrenaline lovers, the fastest water taxi , such as FORMOZA RIB , offers dynamic cruises on the waves of the Gulf of Gdańsk - a real treat for fans of strong sensations!
Access to Tricity attractions such as Westerplatte and the Old Town of Gdańsk
By using the water taxi Gdynia or water taxi to Gdańsk , you can also conveniently get to important historical and tourist places in the Tri-City, including:
Westerplatte – the place where World War II began, to which Gdansk water trams and water taxis often run,
Old Town of Gdańsk – you can moor near Marina Gdańsk and walk along Długi Targ,
The Gdańsk Crane and Granary Island – iconic places on the Motława River that look best from the water.
Thanks to the RIB water taxi it is also possible to quickly travel to Marina Gdynia , from where you can visit, among others, ORP "Błyskawica" and Dar Pomorza.
Practical information about using the water taxi
Before you decide to travel by water taxi Gdańsk, it is worth familiarizing yourself with several practical aspects, such as the duration of the cruise, prices and how to book. Below you will find the most important information to help you plan your trip.
How Long Does a Water Taxi Ride Take? Travel Time and Factors Affecting Its Length
The cruise time depends on the route, type of vessel and weather conditions. The fastest water taxis, e.g. FORMOZA RIB, are able to cover the Gdynia - Hel route in about 25 minutes, Gdańsk - Hel in an hour, which is a huge advantage over traveling by car in the summer season.
Example cruise times:
Water taxi Gdańsk – Hel: approximately 60-65 minutes (due to the need to sail through the port canal).
Water taxi Gdynia – Hel: about 25-35 minutes (the fastest option to the Hel Peninsula).
Water taxi Sopot – Hel: about 30-35 minutes .
Water taxi Gdańsk – Jastarnia: approximately 40-50 minutes (time depends on weather conditions and the chosen route).
Water taxi Gdańsk – Kuźnica / Chałupy: about 2-3 hours (depending on water conditions).
Travel times are influenced by factors such as:
Weather conditions – strong winds and high waves may slightly extend the cruise,
Type of vessel – RIB motorboats are much faster than classic boats,
Traffic on the water – during the summer season, a larger number of vessels in the waters of the Bay of Gdansk may affect the route and time of the cruise.
Water Taxi Cost: What You Need to Know
The cost of a water taxi depends on the route, type of boat, and number of passengers. Prices may vary depending on the season and the specific transport company.
Sample prices:
Water taxi to Hel: Cost: Prices start from around PLN 1,000 for the entire boat (maximum 8-10 people).
Water taxi to Jastarnia: Cost: Approximately PLN 1,200 for the entire boat (maximum 8-10 people).
Water taxi to Kuźnica and Chałupy: Cost: Approximately PLN 1,400 for the entire boat (maximum 8-10 people).
Cruises between Gdansk and Gdynia: Cost: Prices may be lower than the cruise to Hel, but are not in the range of 200-400 PLN for the whole boat. It is recommended to contact the service operators for exact information.
Some companies offer discounts for larger groups and VIP options, such as Premium Boats , where you can charter an exclusive boat with catering.
Water Taxi Booking: How to Plan Your Trip?
Water taxi bookings can be made by phone, website or mobile app. In the summer season, it is worth booking in advance, as interest is very high.
What should you pay attention to when booking?
Date and time – the best times are in the mornings or late afternoons when there is less traffic on the water.
Type of boat – if speed is important to you, choose RIB motorboats.
Weather conditions – check the forecast before booking.
Additional options – some companies offer catering or the possibility of organizing events on board.
It is also worth remembering that the Tri-City water taxi runs depending on weather conditions - in the event of strong winds and high waves, the cruise may be canceled.
Companies offering RIB water taxis in Gdańsk
There are several companies on the market that offer water taxi services in the Tri-City and the Hel Peninsula. Each of them specializes in different types of cruises - from express transfers to exclusive sightseeing trips.
FORMOZA RIB – the fastest water taxi in Poland
If you are looking for the fastest water taxi, FORMOZA RIB is the perfect choice. The company offers extremely fast RIB motorboat cruises that reach from Gdańsk to Hel in just 60 minutes!
✅ They specialize in:
Express connections to the Hel Peninsula
Adrenaline rides on the Bay of Gdansk
Organizing events on the water
Baywatch – cruises on the Bay of Gdansk and the Bay of Puck
Baywatch operates mainly tourist routes, offering:
Sightseeing cruises on the Bay of Gdansk
Connections between Marina Gdańsk and Marina Gdynia
Transfers to Hel, Jastarnia and Chałupy
Baywatch is a great choice for families and groups of friends who want to combine travel with beautiful views.
Premium Boats - exclusive transport services
For those who value luxury and comfort, Premium Boats offers:
Private cruises on elegant yachts
Water taxi to Hel, Jastarnia and Kuźnica in the VIP version
Possibility of organizing events on board
Catering and premium service
This is a great option for people looking not only for transportation, but also for a unique experience.
RIBY.pl – connections from Tricity to the Hel Peninsula
RIBY.pl specializes in fast transport on the following routes:
Water taxi Gdansk - Hel
Water taxi to Jastarnia and Chałupy
Water taxi Sopot - Hel Peninsula
Their RIB motorboats are among the fastest on the market, which makes the cruises short and exciting.
Alternatives to the RIB water taxi
Although water taxi Gdansk is the fastest and most exclusive form of water transport, there are also other options for those looking for cheaper or more recreational solutions.
Water trams – a slower but cheaper option
For those who don't have to hurry, an interesting alternative is the Gdańsk water trams. These are public units operated by Żegluga Gdańska, which run on several popular routes, including:
Gdansk - Hel,
Gdynia-Hel,
Gdansk – Westerplatte,
✅ Advantages of water trams:
Lower prices compared to the Tri-City water taxi,
Larger capacity – ideal for families and large groups,
Possibility to take a bicycle on board.
❌ Disadvantages of water trams:
Longer travel time compared to RIBs – the Gdańsk-Hel cruise lasts up to 90 minutes,
Fixed timetable – no flexibility,
Seasonality – water trams run mainly in summer.
Jet skis as an additional attraction
If instead of taking a water taxi to Hel you prefer a more active adventure, renting a jet ski may be an interesting option. There are rental companies in the Tri-City that offer:
Independent rides around the Bay of Gdansk,
Organized group tours,
Extreme routes in the style of "water safari".
This is a great alternative for adrenaline lovers, although due to the limited range of jet skis it is not a solution for longer distances, such as a trip from Marina Gdańsk to the Hel Peninsula.
Additional services and attractions on board
Traveling by water taxi Gdańsk means not only fast transport, but also the possibility of using additional services that can make the cruise even more comfortable and unique.
Catering on board - snacks and drinks during the cruise
Some companies, such as Premium Boats, offer their customers the option of ordering on-board catering.
As part of this service, you can benefit from:
Cold and hot drinks
Snacks and finger food
Luxurious options like champagne and seafood
Thanks to this, a trip, for example, by water taxi to Hel can become a real, exclusive pleasure.
Events on the water - organization of events and integration
Water taxis can also be used as an unusual venue for various events. Companies such as Baywatch or FORMOZA RIB offer boat rentals for special occasions such as:
Stag and hen parties
Corporate integration events
Romantic Sunset Cruises
Photo and film sessions
For those looking for a unique attraction in Gdansk, the option of renting a private boat for an event is a perfect solution.
Weather Impact on Water Taxi Cruises
Although the Gdańsk water taxi is a fast and convenient way to travel around the waters of the Bay of Gdańsk, weather conditions can significantly affect the time and comfort of your journey.
✅ Good weather conditions – when the water is calm and the wind is weak, the cruises are fast and comfortable. In such conditions, the fastest water taxis, e.g. FORMOZA RIB, can reach the Hel Peninsula in record time.
⚠️ Strong winds and high waves - in rough seas the journey may be longer and the waves may cause more rolling, especially in the case of RIB motorboats. In extreme conditions, cruises may be canceled.
🌧️ Rain and Thunderstorms – While light rain is not a major problem, thunderstorms are a serious threat. In the event of a storm forecast, your water taxi booking may be cancelled for safety reasons.
🌡️ Seasonality of services – most water taxi companies operate mainly in the summer season, from May to September. Outside of the season, the number of cruises is limited, and some companies suspend operations.
How to check the weather before your cruise?
To avoid surprises, it is worth checking the weather forecast before your trip on websites such as:
Windy.com – accurate wind and wave maps,
IMWM – official meteorological warnings,
Meteo.pl – precise forecasts for the Baltic coast.
It is also worth contacting the company organizing the cruise to make sure that the trip will go ahead as planned.
Questions and answers most frequently asked by tourists
Frequently asked questions about water taxi in Gdansk (FAQ)
1. How much does a water taxi cost in Gdańsk and the surrounding area?
The cost of a water taxi depends on the route, number of passengers and the company chosen. Example prices:
Water taxi Gdynia – Hel : from PLN 800 per cruise ,
Water taxi Gdynia – Jastarnia : about PLN 1,000 per trip ,
Water taxi to Chałupy : the price is not clearly defined, but higher than on shorter routes,
Boat cruise from Gdynia to Sopot : prices start from PLN 500 per cruise .
2. How long does a water taxi ride take?
Cruise time depends on route and weather conditions. Example times:
• Gdynia – Hel cruise : about 25 minutes ,
• Gdynia – Jastarnia cruise : about 20 minutes ,
• Water taxi to Chałupy from Gdańsk : may take up to 60-65 minutes due to the route through the port canal,
• Cruise from Marina Gdańsk to Marina Gdynia : 30–40 minutes .
3. How to book a water taxi in Gdansk?
Water taxis can be booked online, by phone or via an app. In the summer season, it is worth booking in advance, as demand is high.
4. What are the most popular water taxi routes?
The most frequently chosen routes include:
Water taxi Gdynia – Hel ,
Water taxi to Jastarnia ,
Water taxi to Kuźnica and Chałupy ,
Cruise Gdansk – Sopot ,
Hel Peninsula – Tricity cruise .
5. Does the water taxi run all year round?
Most water taxis operate seasonally, from May to September. In the off-season, cruises are limited or suspended.
6. Is water taxi the fastest way to get to Hel?
Yes, the fastest water taxi allows you to get to Hel in about 25-35 minutes , from Gdańsk about 60 minutes, which is a much shorter time than traveling by car in the summer season, when the roads are congested.
7. Can I order a water taxi to Chałupy?
Yes, Chałupy water taxis are a popular option for tourists, although the journey may take longer than shorter routes.
8. What companies offer water taxis in Tricity?
The most popular companies offering water taxi services include:
FORMOZA RIB – the fastest water taxi in Poland,
Baywatch – Sightseeing Cruises and Transfers,
Premium Boats – exclusive water taxis,
RIBY.pl – fast connections to the Hel Peninsula .
9. Does the water taxi run between Gdańsk and Gdynia?
Yes, you can use the water taxi Gdynia , which connects Marina Gdańsk with Marina Gdynia .
10. Does Baywatch water taxi operate cruises to Jastarnia?
Yes, Baywatch water taxi offers connections between Tricity and Jastarnia , as well as sightseeing cruises on the Bay of Gdańsk and the Bay of Puck .
11. Is it possible to take a water taxi to Kuźnica?
Yes, Kuźnica water taxi is available and the route is popular with tourists travelling to the Hel Peninsula .
12. What are the alternatives to the water taxi?
If you are looking for a cheaper option, you can use:
Gdańsk water trams , which run on the routes Gdynia – Hel , Gdańsk – Hel Peninsula and Sopot – Gdynia ,
Jet ski trips , which allow for a more active journey,
Recommended cruises that offer longer routes on the waters of the Bay of Gdansk .
13. Does the water taxi operate in case of bad weather?
It depends on the conditions. In case of strong winds, storms or high waves the cruise may be cancelled. It is worth checking the forecast before travelling.
14. Does the RIB water taxi offer fast cruises?
Yes, RIB water taxi is the fastest option, providing lightning-fast connections on the Hel Peninsula – Tricity routes.
15. Can a water taxi be hired for the entire day?
Yes, some companies offer full-day rentals, which allows you to explore the Hel Peninsula , the Bay of Puck and the Tri-City on your own terms.
16. What are the biggest advantages of a water taxi?
Speed – you avoid traffic jams and travel at an express pace,
Scenic route – cruises on the waters of the Bay of Gdańsk provide incredible experiences,
Flexibility – possibility of booking for a chosen date,
Privacy – the option to rent the entire boat for yourself and your friends.
17. Is it possible to take a water taxi to Jastarnia?
Yes, water taxi Jastarnia is one of the most popular routes, especially for tourists traveling to the Hel Peninsula . The trip from Gdynia to Jastarnia takes about 20 minutes , and from Gdańsk or Sopot it may take a little longer depending on the weather conditions on the Bay of Gdańsk .
18. Is the FORMOZA-RIB water taxi the fastest way to get to Hel?
Yes, FORMOZA-RIB water taxi is one of the fastest transport options to the Hel Peninsula . The RIB motorboats of this company can cover the route Gdynia - Hel in about 25 minutes , and from Gdańsk to Hel in less than 65 minutes , which is much faster than traveling by car in the summer season.
19. Does the water taxi go to Sopot?
Yes, it is possible to use the Sopot water taxi , which connects the city with Gdańsk, Gdynia and the Hel Peninsula . It is an ideal option for people who want to quickly reach the Sopot Pier or avoid the congested roads during the holiday season.
20. Is a Taxi Boat the same as a water taxi?
Yes, the term Taxi Boat is often used interchangeably with water taxi Gdańsk . It means the same thing - a fast and comfortable means of water transport that allows for efficient movement around the Bay of Gdańsk and its surroundings.
21. What fast boat is best for water taxi cruises?
If time is of the essence, the best choice will be a fast RIB boat, offered by, for example, FORMOZA-RIB water taxi . Thanks to their lightweight but durable construction, these motorboats can reach high speeds and quickly transport passengers on routes such as Gdańsk - Hel or Sopot - Jastarnia .
22. Where can you experience a truly amazing water taxi ride?
If you are looking for unforgettable experiences, it is worth using the routes leading through the Bay of Gdańsk and the Bay of Puck . A great cruise is provided by companies offering scenic rides to the Hel Peninsula , e.g. water taxi to Jastarnia , water taxi to Hel or quick transfers between Sopot and Gdynia .
23. How to quickly get to the Hel Peninsula?
The best way to avoid traffic jams and get to the Hel Peninsula in no time at all is to take a water taxi . The Gdynia-Hel water taxi covers the route in about 65 minutes , and the fast FORMOZA-RIB water taxi can take passengers from Gdańsk to Hel in less than an hour .
24. Do you want to spend a day on the Hel Peninsula without getting stuck in traffic jams?
Traveling by car in the summer season can take up to several hours. If you want to get to the Hel Peninsula comfortably and quickly, it is worth choosing a water taxi Gdańsk – Hel , water taxi Sopot – Jastarnia or Taxi Boat operating on various routes on the Bay of Gdańsk .
25. How long does a cruise to the Hel Peninsula take?
The time of the Hel water taxi cruise depends on the starting point and weather conditions. Example times:
Water taxi Gdynia – Hel : about 25 minutes ,
Water taxi Sopot – Hel : 30–40 minutes ,
Water taxi Gdańsk – Hel Peninsula : 30–60 minutes ,
Hel Peninsula – Chałupy, Jastarnia, Kuźnica cruise : 10–20 minutes .
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