THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
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.
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.
Book with Gulf Islands Ferry
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Gulf Islands Ferry · Bradenton Beach, Florida
Discover an exhilarating way to explore Bradenton Beach with the Gulf Islands Ferry’s private ferry service from Bridge Street Pier to Bradenton Riverwalk Pier. This open-air pontoon ferry offers a refreshing way to skip the traffic and enjoy Florida’s coastal breeze while gliding over turquoise waters. The route connects two vibrant piers, providing passengers with stunning views of the Gulf Coast’s charming shoreline, waterfront dining, and local waterfront life. The easy boarding process and comfortable seating make this trip ideal for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike. Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the weather and keep your camera ready for spectacular photo opportunities along the way. Reservations are recommended to secure priority boarding, ensuring a smooth start to your trip. Whether you’re visiting for leisure or a unique local commute, this water taxi transforms a simple journey into a memorable experience with the calming sounds of the water and picturesque views around every turn. Enjoy watching pelicans dive gracefully, sailboats drift by, and the gentle sway of mangroves as you travel between these two iconic piers. This ferry ride is more than just transport; it's a chance to connect with nature and the coastal culture of Bradenton Beach.
easy.
20–30 minutes one way.
Suitable for all fitness levels, no physical exertion required beyond boarding and disembarking.
Reservations are recommended to secure priority boarding but not always required for off-peak times.
Yes, Gulf Islands Ferry has accessible boarding options to accommodate wheelchair users.
Small pets are allowed if kept in carriers; service animals are permitted without restrictions.
The ride typically takes between 20 to 30 minutes one way, depending on conditions.
Food and non-alcoholic drinks are generally allowed, but alcohol is prohibited on the ferry.
Dress in layers and bring sun protection or rain gear depending on the season and weather forecast.
Bridge Street Pier is part of a historic waterfront district once known for local fishing and trade dating back to the early 1900s.
The ferry operates with eco-friendly measures to protect seagrass beds and local marine habitats in this sensitive coastal ecosystem.
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.
Book with Gulf Islands Ferry