Ride the waves between Bridge Street Pier and Bradenton Riverwalk Pier on an open-air ferry. Enjoy stunning Gulf Coast views and skip road traffic with this unique water taxi experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
20–30 minutes one way
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels, no physical exertion required beyond boarding and disembarking.
Wildlife
History
Bridge Street Pier is part of a historic waterfront district once known for local fishing and trade dating back to the early 1900s.
Conservation
The ferry operates with eco-friendly measures to protect seagrass beds and local marine habitats in this sensitive coastal ecosystem.
Gulf Islands Ferry
Ride the waves between Bridge Street Pier and Bradenton Riverwalk Pier on an open-air ferry. Enjoy stunning Gulf Coast views and skip road traffic with this unique water taxi experience.
Gulf Islands Ferry is a water taxi and ferry service based in Bradenton, Florida, providing open-air pontoon transportation between Bradenton Riverwalk Pier, Bridge Street Pier, and Anna Maria Island City Pier. The company operates vessels designed to carry up to 49 passengers, offering an alternative to driving that helps riders avoid traffic and parking hassles.
Trips include one-way and return routes connecting the three piers, with open-air pontoon vessels that have no plastic windows so passengers feel the breeze and should dress for the weather. Reservations are recommended for priority boarding; travelers are advised to expect the possibility of getting wet on exposed decks and to prepare accordingly.
Services emphasize straightforward, scenic transit across local waterways. Schedules and specific trip names reflect connections between Bradenton Riverwalk Pier, Bridge Street Pier, and Anna Maria Island City Pier, with multiple route pairings available for convenience. The operator’s straightforward product summaries make it easy to choose the right crossing for a visit to Anna Maria Island, a day on the bay, or a short water taxi hop within Bradenton.
Gulf Islands Ferry’s offering focuses on accessible, memorable waterborne travel in the Bradenton area. Clear route descriptions, vessel capacity details, and practical rider guidance help set expectations before boarding. By highlighting pier-to-pier connections and open-air pontoon experiences, Gulf Islands Ferry provides a simple, scenic option for moving between key waterfront points in and around Bradenton.
Customers should check current schedules and reservation policies before travel to confirm times and boarding procedures and weather advisories.
Passenger Capacity
49 per vessel
Open-air pontoon seating limit
Vessel Type
Open-air pontoon
Feel the breeze; no plastic windows
Routes Served
Bradenton ↔ Bridge Street ↔ Anna Maria
Pier-to-pier water taxi routes
Location
Bradenton, Florida
Operates in local waterways
Book a crossing between Bradenton Riverwalk Pier, Bridge Street Pier, and Anna Maria Island City Pier — dress for the weather and enjoy a scenic water taxi ride.
Reserve Ahead for Priority Boarding
Book your ride in advance to ensure you get priority boarding and avoid waiting during busy periods.
Dress for the Elements
Wear layers and bring sun protection as the ferry is open-air and exposed to sun, wind, and occasional spray.
Arrive Early to Explore Piers
Get to either pier early to explore local shops, cafes, and waterfront views before your ferry departs.
Bring a Camera
Capture the scenic coastline, wildlife, and vibrant pier life during your ferry ride.
Sunscreen
Protect your skin from strong Florida sun during the open-air ferry ride.
summer
Light Windbreaker
Blocks chilled breeze especially during cooler months or early mornings.
fall
Waterproof Bag
Keep your electronics and valuables dry from water spray and sudden rain.
summer
Binoculars
Great for birdwatching and spotting marine wildlife during the trip.
spring