THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Escape the traffic and explore Florida’s Gulf Coast aboard an open-air ferry running between Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Riverwalk. Enjoy stunning waters, wildlife sightings, and convenient waterfront access on this 50-minute journey.
Escape the traffic and explore Florida’s Gulf Coast aboard an open-air ferry running between Anna Maria Island and Bradenton Riverwalk. Enjoy stunning waters, wildlife sightings, and convenient waterfront access on this 50-minute journey.
Book with Gulf Islands Ferry
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Gulf Islands Ferry · Anna Maria, Florida
Glide across the turquoise waters between Anna Maria Island and Bradenton, Florida, aboard an open-air pontoon vessel designed for up to 49 passengers. This easy, breezy boat charter offers travelers an opportunity to escape traffic jams and experience the stunning beauty of Tampa Bay’s coastal waters in a relaxed, immersive way. Anna Maria Island, a laid-back barrier island on Florida’s Gulf Coast, is known for its pristine beaches and gentle waves, making this ferry route a fantastic introduction to the region’s aquatic charm.
Departing from the Anna Maria Island City Pier, located at 100 N Bay Blvd, this scenic route covers the roughly 50-minute journey to the vibrant Bradenton Riverwalk Pier. As you glide over calm waters, you’ll spot local wildlife such as playful dolphins and osprey diving for fish, as well as occasional manatees near the estuaries. The ferry’s open deck allows passengers to embrace the sea breeze and capture panoramic views, including the distinctive mangroves lining the shores and the colorful boats moored nearby.
What sets this ferry experience apart is its blend of convenience and connection. Instead of battling congested roadways, visitors can enjoy a direct and eco-friendly transit option between two popular destinations. Bradenton Riverwalk, a revitalized waterfront park, offers a lively mix of restaurants, marketplaces, and art installations—perfect for extending your day of adventure. Meanwhile, Anna Maria Island’s slower pace and pristine sandy beaches invite you to linger in nature.
Local history whispers through the region’s hidden coves and waters; the area has long served as a fishing and boating hub, tracing roots back to early settlers and indigenous inhabitants. Sustainable tourism here focuses on preserving the delicate coastal ecosystem, with operators committed to protecting the bays and marine life.
Whether you’re a family out for an afternoon escape, a photography enthusiast chasing golden hour reflections, or a nature lover seeking calm waters and fresh air, this ferry route offers an easy and memorable adventure. Reservations are recommended to ensure your spot on this popular route, especially during peak seasons.
Discover the Gulf Coast’s natural beauty from a unique vantage point while linking two essential stops — the sun-drenched shores of Anna Maria Island and the bustling community charm of Bradenton’s riverfront hub.
easy.
50 minutes.
No physical exertion required; suitable for all ages and abilities.
Policies vary, so please check with the operator before booking to confirm pet accommodations.
Yes, the vessels are designed to be accessible, but notifying the operator ahead is recommended for assistance.
Refund policies depend on booking conditions; it’s best to review terms at the time of reservation.
Light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are generally permitted, but check specific rules beforehand.
Life jackets are available on board for all passengers as part of standard safety equipment.
The ferry runs multiple times per day; check the latest schedule on the official booking site to plan your trip.
Bradenton and Anna Maria Island have rich fishing and maritime histories dating to early indigenous cultures and Spanish settlements.
The ferry operator follows eco-friendly practices to minimize water pollution and disturbance to marine habitats in Tampa Bay.
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