Skip the traffic and enjoy an open-air pontoon ride from Bradenton Riverwalk to Anna Maria Island. This scenic route offers breathtaking views and a peaceful way to travel between two beautiful Florida spots.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
30–45 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required.
Wildlife
History
Bradenton and Anna Maria Island have long histories as coastal hubs for Florida's fishing and boating communities, influencing the culture and economy.
Conservation
Efforts to protect the local waterways focus on reducing boat pollution and preserving marine habitats essential for native wildlife.
Gulf Islands Ferry
Skip the traffic and enjoy an open-air pontoon ride from Bradenton Riverwalk to Anna Maria Island. This scenic route offers breathtaking views and a peaceful way to travel between two beautiful Florida spots.
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.
Dress for the Weather
Florida’s weather can change quickly; bring layers and sun protection for a comfortable trip on the water.
Bring a Camera
Capture stunning waterfront views and possible wildlife sightings during your ride.
Arrive Early
Arriving 10-15 minutes before departure helps avoid last-minute boarding delays.
Use Sunscreen
Open-air seating exposes you to direct sun; apply sunscreen to avoid sunburn.
Lightweight Jacket
Ideal for cooler breezes during the trip, especially in fall and winter.
fall
Sunglasses
Protects your eyes from the glaring sun on bright water surfaces.
summer
Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is important, especially on warm days aboard the pontoon.
Sunblock
Prevents sunburn during open-air exposure along the route.
summer