The Cross-Bay Ferry is returning to service in Tampa Bay on Oct. 21, marking its fifth season of fun, convenient, cost-efficient travel across the bay.
The ferry returns with an extended season that includes an additional month of service, making it available until May 22. Later evening departures will also be available, with final departure times as late as 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday nights.
“Thanks to a great partnership between four local governments, one of the most exciting and reliable ways to travel across Tampa Bay is back,” said Matt Miller, president of HMS Ferries in a press release. “The Cross-Bay Ferry offers an incredibly accessible and affordable transportation option between two of the hottest spots in downtown Tampa and downtown St. Pete. What’s more, passengers get treated to some amazing views of the bay and both cities.”
The ferry is a regional collaboration between Hillsborough County, Pinellas County, the City of Tampa, and the City of St. Petersburg. Beginning this year, Hillsborough County became the lead governmental sponsor, taking the reins from the City of St. Petersburg.
“Hillsborough County is proud to take the lead on continuing this unique regional partnership,” said Hillsborough County Commissioner Pat Kemp. “We are glad to be expanding this popular ferry service while also laying the foundation for permanent ferry service in Tampa Bay. Together, we are providing residents and visitors with a fast, fun and affordable way to travel between our communities.”
This year, the ferry will operate from the same terminal locations as last season. In Tampa, it will depart from the dock at the Tampa Convention Center, and in St. Petersburg from the dock at North Straub Park, near the Vinoy Marina.
First departures from St. Petersburg will start at 4:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 11 a.m. on Sundays. Final departures from Tampa will be at 10:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7:30 p.m. on Sundays.
The ferry does not run on Mondays and Tuesdays.
The ferry vessel is a twin-hull aluminum catamaran that can carry a maximum of 149 guests at an average speed of 30 mph and has a full-service bar with basic food service. Passengers may bring up to two pieces of luggage and one small personal item at no extra charge, and they may also bring bikes on board. Customer surveys will also be taken regularly to improve service and gain better insight into how future permanent ferry service can be achieved and structured.
Ticket prices for adults will be the same as last season: $10 one-way and $20 roundtrip for adults; $8 one-way and $16 roundtrip for seniors (age 65 and over), youths (ages 5 to 18), members of the military (active or retired), and college students; and free service for children age 4 and under. This year the Cross-Bay Ferry will also offer people who use a wheelchair a discounted rate of $5 one-way and $10 roundtrip.
Residents and visitors can purchase tickets, view the full schedule and find more information at thecrossbayferry.com. Tickets can also be purchased in-person at dockside ticket booths in Tampa and St. Petersburg.
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This article appears in Oct 21-27, 2021.