Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn announced Friday that three experienced ferry and cruise operators have expressed interest in launching a water taxi between San Pedro and Long Beach during the 2028 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Metro issued a Request for Information in April to gauge private-sector interest in the proposal, according to Hahn.
Harbor Breeze Cruises, Hornblower Yachts and SF Prop expressed interest in operating the service, while other firms said they would be interested in providing vessels, crews, dock operations and other service components, Hahn said.
“This report confirms what I’ve believed from the beginning: a water taxi between San Pedro and Long Beach isn’t just a fun idea — it’s a realistic one and we have experienced operators who want to make it happen,” Hahn said in a statement. “The Olympics are a once-in-a-generation opportunity to showcase Los Angeles and a water taxi across our iconic harbor would be an unforgettable experience for residents and visitors alike. We should seize this opportunity and get it done.”
According to a Metro report, respondents viewed the Olympic service as a proof of concept for a permanent cross-harbor water transit connection after the Games.
With input from respondents, Metro estimated the cost of operating the service during the 47-day Olympic and Paralympic period at between approximately $950,000 and $1.54 million.
The report identified the next steps as securing funding and maintaining an accelerated procurement schedule. If approved by the Metro Board, a request for proposals could be issued as early as October, with a notice to proceed by July 2027.