The Gulf Islands Ferry (colloquially known as the Anna Maria Island Ferry) has quickly become one of the most popular ways to travel between the Florida mainland and the pristine shores of Anna Maria Island (AMI). Launched in early 2024, the service offers a scenic, stress-free alternative to the often-congested Manatee Avenue and Cortez Road bridges.
As of April 2026, the service has significantly expanded, adding larger, climate-controlled vessels to its fleet to accommodate growing demand.
A Brief History & Evolution
The ferry service was officially inaugurated in January 2024 by Manatee County to alleviate traffic congestion and provide a unique tourist experience. Originally starting with two 49-passenger catamarans—the Miss Anna Maria and the Downtown Duchess—the fleet grew in April 2026 with the addition of the Manatee Belle. This new 60-foot vessel features an enclosed, air-conditioned cabin and seating for 96 passengers, allowing for more reliable service during Florida’s summer heat and unpredictable weather.
The Manatee Belle: The “powerhouse” of the fleet. It offers the fastest service, highest capacity, and most importantly—indoor, air-conditioned seating.
The Miss Anna Maria & Downtown Duchess: These smaller catamarans offer a more “open-air” saltwater experience. The trip between stops typically takes 25 to 40 minutes of scenic cruising.
In its first year alone, the ferry successfully removed nearly 13,000 cars from local roads, proving to be a vital component of the region’s multi-modal transportation strategy.
The Routes & Docks
Currently, the ferry operates on a primary route connecting the mainland to the southern end of the island:
- Downtown Bradenton: The mainland terminal is located at the Bradenton Riverwalk Pier (near 10th Street West).
- Bradenton Beach (AMI): The island terminal is the Historic Bridge Street Pier.
Note on Anna Maria City Pier: While originally a stop, service to the northern City Pier is currently suspended following structural damage from the 2024 hurricane season. Plans are underway to reopen this stop by late 2026.
Benefits of the Ferry
- Avoid Traffic: Skip the gridlock on the bridges and the difficult search for parking on the island.
- Wildlife Sightings: The 35–50 minute crossing through the Intracoastal Waterway offers frequent sightings of bottlenose dolphins, manatees, and native seabirds.
- Accessibility: All vessels are fully ADA-compliant with ramps and designated seating.
- Connectivity: The ferry docks steps away from the Free Island Trolley, which runs the entire 7-mile length of the island.
What to Do at Both Ends
At the Bradenton Riverwalk (Mainland)
- The Riverwalk: Stroll along the 1.5-mile park featuring outdoor art, a splash pad, and a skate park.
- Bishop Museum of Science and Nature: Located just a few blocks away, this is the largest natural history museum on Florida’s Gulf Coast.
- Old Main Street: A historic district lined with oak trees, local boutiques, and popular eateries like Pier 22.
At Historic Bridge Street (Island)
- Beach Access: A short walk from the pier leads you directly to the turquoise waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
- Dining & Nightlife: Enjoy iconic spots like the Bridge Tender Inn or the Anna Maria Island Oyster Bar right on the pier.
- Shopping: Explore the “walkable” street filled with art galleries, jewelry shops, and souvenir boutiques.
- Mini-Golf: Fish Hole Adventure Golf is a favorite for families looking for a quick activity before the return trip.
2026 Pricing & Schedule
Prices and times are subject to change based on weather and season.
Ticket Pricing
| Category | One-Way | Round-Trip |
| Adults (18–59) | $7.00 | $11.00 |
| Seniors (60–79) / Military | $5.00 | $7.00 |
| Youth (4–18) | $5.00 | $7.00 |
| Seniors (80+) | FREE | FREE |
| Children (Under 3) | FREE | FREE |
Weekly Schedule
The ferry currently operates Wednesday through Sunday.
- Departures from Bradenton Riverwalk: 7:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 11:00 AM, 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM.
- Departures from Bridge Street Pier: 9:00 AM, 11:30 AM, 12:30 PM, 2:30 PM, 3:30 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM, 8:30 PM.
Traveler Tips
- Reservations: While walk-ons are welcome, booking online in advance is highly recommended, especially on weekends.
- Gear: You are welcome to bring beach chairs, coolers, and strollers. However, due to Coast Guard regulations, bicycles are not permitted on board.
- Pets: Only service animals are allowed; personal pets must stay at home.
- Stay Dry: On the smaller open-air catamarans, you may experience a light salt spray—bring a towel or light poncho if you’re sitting near the edges!
Parking Strategy: Mainland vs. Island
Parking is often the biggest hurdle to a beach day. Here is how to beat the system:
- In Downtown Bradenton: Don’t stress about street parking. Head directly to the City Centre Parking Facility. It’s free, covered, and only a five-minute walk from the Waterfront pier.
- On Anna Maria Island: Parking near the docks is tight.
- Bridge Street: Recommended, but fills up by mid-morning.
- Pro Move: Park at Coquina Beach, where spots are more plentiful, and hop on the free Island Trolley for a quick ride to the Bridge Street dock.
- North End: Once repairs to the Anna Maria City Pier are complete, early birds can find spots along S. Bay Boulevard and Bayfront Park.
Comfort & Prep
- Dress for the Deck: Florida weather is unpredictable. In the summer, hats and high-SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable. In the winter, the breeze on the water is significantly colder than on land—bring a windbreaker or warm jacket.
- The “Splash Zone”: If you are riding the open-air catamarans, passing wakes can occasionally send a bit of spray over the gunwales. Bring a towel just in case!
- On-Island Mobility: Once you dock, you don’t need a car. The free Anna Maria Trolley connects directly to the ferry landings, running the full loop of the island all day.
