The Gulf Islands Ferry service operates year-round Thursday through Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.(Schedule is subject to change)

If you need help or have any questions, you can call or text the Gulf Islands Ferry at 727-200-6487 or email them at  Info@GulfIslandsferry.com.

If the ferry is cancelled during operation, we’ll text and call to rebook you on the next available departure. If no later ferry is available, we’ll share alternate return options (Rideshare or Manatee County Area Transit) and refund your return ticket. If the ferry is cancelled the day before, you’ll receive a cancellation email and text. If we haven’t heard back by early evening, we’ll call to confirm you’re aware. Your refund will be issued once you confirm via email, text, or call.

Passengers catching the ferry in Downtown Bradenton can park for free at the City Centre Parking Facility (3rd Avenue West, between 10th and 12th Streets). From there, it’s a five-minute walk on the Bradenton Riverwalk to the Bradenton Riverwalk Pier. Parking is limited for the Bridge Street Pier, with limited spots along Bridge Street for early birds.

Visit GulfIslandsFerry.com to book your seat! We accept cashless options (credit card, Google Pay, Apple Pay) and deliver your pass to your smartphone for ease. Rest assured, we don’t store any sensitive payment info, so you’ll need to re-input your payment details for future bookings. We encourage you to book tickets in advance (especially during busy seasons), but you can buy tickets while boarding the ferry, too. No stress.

Stops include the Downtown Bradenton Riverwalk Pier, Bridge Street Pier and Coquina Beach. Ferry rides last around 30 to 50 minutes depending on the route, so plan accordingly. Insider tip: Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to grab a good seat and get comfy.

We invite all service animals onboard, but we ask that you leave your pets at home, at your rental, or with a friend.

Absolutely! The ferries were designed to ensure equal access and convenience for all individuals with disabilities. Each ferry has a spacious, wheelchair- accessible ramp and designated seating areas that adhere to ADA standards. Crew members are trained to aid and support passengers with all abilities, ensuring a safe and enjoyable trip for all.

Towels, picnic baskets, beach chairs, and coolers are all allowed so you can get from the mainland to the Island with no fuss! U.S. Coast Guard regulations prevent bikes from being brought on our ferries.

The Gulf Island Ferry may operate on a modified schedule during holidays like Labor Day and Memorial Day. We recommend purchasing your tickets beforehand, as in-person availability might be even more limited.