Skip Traffic: Scenic Water Taxi Between Bradenton & Anna Maria Island

Gulf Islands Ferry — Bradenton Water Taxi and Open-Air Pontoon Service

Scenic Pier-to-Pier Water Taxi in Bradenton, Florida

Gulf Islands Ferry operates open-air pontoon water taxi services connecting key piers in the Bradenton area. Popular route pairings include Bradenton Riverwalk Pier, Bridge Street Pier, and Anna Maria Island City Pier. Each vessel carries up to 49 passengers and offers a breezy, unobstructed ride — ideal for travelers who want a practical, scenic alternative to driving and parking.

Why Choose a Water Taxi with Gulf Islands Ferry

• Avoid traffic and parking: Water taxi routes provide direct pier-to-pier connections that bypass congested roads.
• Open-air pontoon experience: No plastic windows means fresh air and an immersive ride; riders should dress for the weather and expect occasional spray.
• Clear route options: Multiple one-way and return trips are offered between the three primary piers for flexible travel planning.
• Passenger capacity: Vessels designed for up to 49 passengers make group travel straightforward.

Typical Routes and Trip Types

Gulf Islands Ferry lists trips that reflect the practical needs of local and visiting passengers. Examples of route pairings include:

• Bradenton Riverwalk Pier ➔ Bridge Street Pier
• Bridge Street Pier ➔ Anna Maria Island City Pier
• Bradenton Riverwalk Pier ➔ Anna Maria Island City Pier
• Return trips between any of the connected piers

Each trip summary notes the open-air pontoon setup and recommends dressing for the elements. Reservations are recommended for priority boarding and to secure space on popular departures.

What to Expect Onboard

Passengers should expect an open-air pontoon layout without plastic window enclosures. That contributes to a lively, coastal ride with fresh breezes and occasional spray. Practical preparation includes:

• Dressing for sun, wind, and possible spray
• Considering footwear suited for wet surfaces
• Bringing a light layer for changing conditions

Practical Details for Planning

• Bookings: Reservations are recommended to prioritize boarding on busy crossings.
• Capacity: Pontoon vessels accommodate up to 49 passengers per vessel.
• Routes: Service connects Bradenton Riverwalk Pier, Bridge Street Pier, and Anna Maria Island City Pier, offering both one-way and return options.

Keywords and Search Terms

For travelers searching online, common search phrases that match Gulf Islands Ferry offerings include: Bradenton water taxi, Anna Maria Island ferry, Bradenton Riverwalk Pier boat, Bridge Street Pier water taxi, open-air pontoon ferry Bradenton, and pier-to-pier water taxi Anna Maria. Including these terms in trip descriptions and route pages helps visitors find pier connections, reservation details, and practical rider guidance.

Final Notes

Gulf Islands Ferry provides a straightforward, scenic way to move between piers in the Bradenton area. By emphasizing open-air pontoon rides, clear route descriptions, vessel capacity, and reservation recommendations, the service appeals to locals and visitors seeking efficient waterfront travel. Prospective passengers should check current schedules, reservation policies, and weather advisories before traveling to ensure the best on-water experience.