Do you need to book ferry to anna maria island?

Picture yourself strolling down the historic Anna Maria City Pier, savoring fresh seafood at a beachside café, or renting a kayak to explore the Gulf waters. Whether you’re into sunbathing, water sports, or just enjoying a leisurely day on the island, Anna Maria offers the perfect mix of relaxation and fun.

Getting there and exploring the island is easier than ever thanks to the Gulf Islands Ferry. This service connects Downtown Bradenton with Anna Maria Island and offers more than just transportation it’s a scenic, hassle-free way to begin your island adventure.

Whether you’re staying at an Anna Maria Island vacation rental or visiting for the day, this guide will cover everything you need to know from schedules and ticket prices to the vessels, routes, accessibility, and tips for making the most of your trip.

About the Gulf Islands Ferry

• Website: gulfcoastwatertaxi.com
• Operating Hours: Wednesday through Sunday, 7:30 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Ticket Prices: $6 one-way, $10 round-trip; discounts for seniors, military, and children

The ferry offers a 50-minute, traffic-free ride with panoramic Gulf views. It’s the easiest way to travel between Downtown Bradenton and Anna Maria Island while enjoying the scenery and avoiding island parking hassles.

Hurricane & Pier Updates

Due to hurricane damage, the Anna Maria City Pier is temporarily closed. The ferry currently operates between Bridge Street Pier on Anna Maria Island and the Bradenton Riverwalk Pier downtown. Despite past hurricanes, the island is open and ready to welcome visitors. Check the official ferry website for updates on pier reopenings and future stops.

The Vessels: Miss Anna Maria & Downtown Duchess

The Gulf Islands Ferry uses two modern open-air catamarans, each accommodating 49 passengers:

• Miss Anna Maria
• Downtown Duchess

Both are designed for a smooth, comfortable ride with ample viewing areas to enjoy breathtaking Gulf scenery.

How to Book Your Ferry

Booking in advance is recommended, especially during busy weekends or holidays.

Steps to book online:

1. Visit the website: gulfcoastwatertaxi.com
2. Select your trip: Choose departure location (Downtown Bradenton, Bridge Street Pier, or AMI stops) and time.
3. Choose your ticket: One-way ($6) or round-trip ($10); all-day hopper passes may also be available.
4. Make payment: Securely pay with a credit/debit card, Google Pay, Apple Pay, or other cashless options.
5. Receive confirmation: Your mobile ticket or confirmation email is required to board.

Ferry Routes & Destinations

The ferry connects key points of interest, making it easy to explore Anna Maria Island and Bradenton:

Downtown Bradenton Pier

• Day Dock & Riverwalk: Picturesque waterfront park with outdoor art, skate park, and amphitheater.
• Village of the Arts: Local galleries, studios, and cafés.
• Dining: From casual cafés to upscale seafood restaurants.

Historic Bridge Street Pier, Bradenton Beach

• Beach Activities: Swimming, sunbathing, and shelling.
• Dining & Nightlife: Restaurants, bars, live music, and seasonal Bridge Street Market (Nov–Apr).
• Recreation: Bike, scooter, or kayak rentals for active exploration.

Anna Maria City Pier (Temporarily Closed)

• Scenic Views & Sunset Spot
• Fishing & Boating
• Local Seafood Restaurants

Potential Future Stops

• Coquina Beach: Soft sand and calm waters.
• Holmes Beach: Quieter beaches with a laid-back vibe.
• Palmetto: Historic district with parks, museums, and charming streets.

Parking & Transportation Tips

• Downtown Bradenton: Free parking at the City Centre Parking Facility, 5-minute walk to the Riverwalk.
• Anna Maria Island: Limited parking; early arrival recommended.
• Trolley Service: The free Anna Maria Island Trolley connects popular locations across the island often easier than driving.

Accessibility, Pets, & Amenities

• ADA Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible ramps, designated seating, and trained crew support.
• Pets: Service animals only; leashed pets not allowed.
• Restrooms: Not available on the vessels.
• Beach Gear & Coolers: Towels, chairs, and picnic baskets allowed; bicycles are not.
• Wi-Fi: Complimentary Wi-Fi onboard; coverage may vary.

Pricing & Discounts

• Adults: $6 one-way, $10 round-trip
• Seniors 60+: $4 one-way, $6 round-trip
• Military: $4 one-way, $6 round-trip
• Children 4–17: $4 one-way, $6 round-trip
• Children 3 & under: Free
• Seniors 80+: Free

Why Take the Ferry?

The Gulf Islands Ferry is more than just transportation, it’s part of the Anna Maria Island experience:

• Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning Gulf panoramas and sunset rides.
• Relaxed Travel: Avoid traffic, parking struggles, and island crowds.
• Eco-Friendly: Reduces car usage, supporting sustainable tourism.
• Convenient: Offers connections to key attractions, restaurants, and recreational areas.

In the end, the Gulf Islands Ferry remains one of the most convenient and affordable ways to reach Anna Maria Island. Its smooth ride, scenic views, and reliable schedule make it an easy choice for both day-trippers and long-stay visitors. Booking ahead ensures everything goes seamlessly, adding an extra touch of ease to your island getaway.