Ferry Service Adds New Bridge Street Pier Stop: Manatee County

MANATEE COUNTY, FL — The new Gulf Islands Ferry will expand service to the Bridge Street Pier in Bradenton Beach starting Friday, according to a Manatee County news release.

This stop is in addition to the existing ferry stops at the day dock in downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria City Pier.

The service launched Jan. 14 after months of delays.

• Also Read: New Ferry Service Between Bradenton, AMI Launching After Delays

“The time is now to add the historic Bridge Street Pier in the City of Bradenton Beach to our route map that will allow our passengers to enjoy the unique shops and restaurants on Bridge Street,” Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention & Visitors Bureau, said. “This landing will also be in walking distance to the free trolley system and our beautiful sugar-white sand beaches.”

Visitors and residents can catch a ride on the water Friday through Sunday from 9 a.m.to 9 p.m. with departures every hour, on the hour. Ride times on the water are approximately 30 to 35 minutes each way.

The two catamarans hold 49 passengers and will have two crew aboard to ensure smooth transport to and from each port.

“This is another vital step to continue enhancing multi-modal transportation in our community,” Commissioner Kevin Van Ostenbridge said.