The regular crossing time is scheduled at approximately 50 minutes. Weather and traffic conditions can impact the transit time. All guests must be ticketed and ready for loading 20 minutes prior to departure. All ticket sales cease 5 minutes prior to sailing in order to complete the loading process.

The ride on the Cross Bay Ferry, which connects downtown St. Petersburg and downtown Tampa, takes approximately 50 minutes each way. This high-speed catamaran service offers a scenic alternative to the often-congested Gandy Bridge or Howard Frankland Bridge. In 2026, the ferry typically operates from October through June, with two to three departures daily. The cost is around $12 for adults, and the vessel features both indoor climate-controlled seating and an outdoor deck where passengers can enjoy views of Tampa Bay and potentially spot dolphins. Compared to driving, which takes about 30 minutes in perfect traffic but over an hour during rush hour, the ferry is considered the "stress-free" choice for commuters and tourists heading to a Tampa Bay Lightning game or a night out at the St. Pete Pier, as it docks directly within walking distance of the major entertainment districts in both cities.

The Cross Bay Ferry ride duration depends on the specific route you take. Here are the details for the main seasonal routes:

Tampa ↔ St. Petersburg (Seasonal: Typically Oct - May)

• Duration: Approximately 50 minutes.
• Route: Departs from the Tampa Convention Center and arrives at the Vinoy Basin in downtown St. Pete.

St. Petersburg ↔ Bradenton (Seasonal: Typically Nov - April)

• Duration: Approximately 45 minutes.
• Route: Connects the Vinoy Basin in St. Pete to the Bradenton Beach Pier.

Important Notes:

• Schedules Vary: The ferry operates on a seasonal schedule. The Tampa-St. Pete route usually runs from fall through late spring. The St. Pete-Bradenton route runs in the winter/spring. Always check the official website for current schedules and operations before planning your trip.
• Total Trip Time: Allow extra time for boarding, disembarking, and potential wait times, especially on weekends or during special events.
• Real-Time Tracking: The ferry has a real-time boat tracker on its website and app, which is useful for seeing the exact location and estimated arrival time.

Best Source for Current Info: For the most accurate and up-to-date schedules, ticket prices, and operational status, visit the official Cross Bay Ferry website: crossbayferry.com