Cross Bay Ferry Between St Petersburg and Tampa Review | Video

Published on 03/15/21: Here’s my final Cross-Bay Ferry post for now. A 3 minute video I quickly put together for a visual of what to expect. Plus, below you’ll find alternatives to walking for those who want to cover more territory or aren’t up for the walk in Tampa. After we ride the ferry again, I’ll post ideas of what to do on the walk towards Armature Works, another popular stroll! Thanks for following along with @LovingStPete. 😊

For new followers, my first 2 posts focused on walking/biking in Tampa post-ferry ride. Now onto two alternatives to walking.

Pirate Water Taxi in Tampa

1. Pirate Water Taxi – Upon exiting the ferry in Tampa, the Pirate Water Taxi lies just to the right. Arrrg. Tickets are $25/adults & $15/child, allowing you to hop on and off as much as you want, all day, across 14 stops. This option keeps the ol’ nautical theme going. Simply buy tickets at their dock, on their website or after boarding at any of the stops located throughout Downtown Tampa. You’ll receive a Pirate Water Taxi wristband upon boarding which will give you discounts at a number of venues located on the route as part of their Pirate Perks Program here: https://bit.ly/3w97NCn

TECO Line Streetcar in Tampa

2. The free The TECO Line Streetcar System picks up at intersection of Franklin Street and Old Water Street. This is just 2 minutes from the ferry port at the Dick Greco Plaza – a glass domed area. With 11 stops, you can cover a lot of territory, for free! Even on over to destinations such as Ybor City, which holds the Columbia Restaurant Group. “Founded in 1905 by Cuban immigrant Casimiro Hernandez, Sr., the Columbia Restaurant is Florida’s oldest restaurant and the largest Spanish restaurant in the world.”. You can find a map and streetcar details here: http://www.tecolinestreetcar.org

Cross Bay Ferry to Amalie Arena

Remember to keep the ferry in mind for events at Amalie Arena, as it’s just a 5 minute walk from the ferry port. Granted, you might need to take an Uber back to St Pete if the event ends after the last ferry departure.

Click here for Ferry FAQ’s

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Departure Address: 375 Bayshore Drive NE, St Pete

Arrival Address: 333 S Franklin St, Tampa

Phone: 727-273-6877

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Exploring the Cross Bay Ferry: Connecting St. Petersburg and Tampa

The Cross Bay Ferry is a fairly new and convenient transportation option that connects two of Florida’s vibrant cities—St. Petersburg and Tampa. Launched to provide a scenic and efficient alternative to driving, the Cross Bay Ferry offers passengers a unique way to travel across Tampa Bay while enjoying stunning views and a relaxing journey. Here’s a closer look at what makes the Cross Bay Ferry a standout option for commuting and exploring the area.

Overview of the Cross Bay Ferry

• Route: The ferry operates between two key waterfront locations—St. Petersburg’s downtown waterfront and Tampa’s downtown waterfront. The primary docking points are at the Vinoy Basin Marina in St. Petersburg (changed to Port of St Pete in 2023) and the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa.
• Duration: The ferry ride typically takes about 50 minutes to 1 hour, providing a comfortable and scenic alternative to road travel across the bay.
• Schedule: The ferry runs on a regular schedule, with multiple trips available throughout the day. The schedule can vary based on the day of the week and seasonal demands, so it’s a good idea to check the latest timetable before planning your trip.

Key Features and Benefits

1. Scenic Journey

• Stunning Views: Passengers on the Cross Bay Ferry are treated to breathtaking views of Tampa Bay, including the city skylines of both St. Petersburg and Tampa, as well as picturesque water views. The ferry ride offers a unique perspective of the bay and its surroundings.
• Comfortable Seating: The ferry features comfortable seating areas both indoors and outdoors, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the scenery. The outdoor decks provide an excellent vantage point for taking in the fresh air and panoramic views.

2. Convenience and Efficiency

• Avoid Traffic: One of the major advantages of the Cross Bay Ferry is its ability to help passengers avoid the traffic congestion that can often plague the bridge routes between St. Petersburg and Tampa. The ferry provides a smooth and predictable travel experience.
• Central Locations: Both docking points are located in central, easily accessible areas of their respective cities, making it convenient for passengers to explore local attractions, restaurants, and entertainment options upon arrival.

3. Environmental Benefits

• Sustainable Transportation: The Cross Bay Ferry promotes environmentally friendly transportation by reducing the number of cars on the road and the associated emissions. By offering a water-based travel option, it contributes to a more sustainable approach to commuting and travel.

Onboard Experience

• Amenities: The ferry is equipped with amenities designed to enhance the passenger experience. This includes comfortable seating, restrooms, and in some cases, concessions or snack services.
• Pet-Friendly: The Cross Bay Ferry is generally pet-friendly, allowing passengers to bring their pets on board. However, it’s recommended to check the specific pet policy and any requirements or restrictions before traveling.

Ticketing and Fares

• Pricing: Ticket prices for the Cross Bay Ferry are generally affordable and vary based on factors such as age, type of fare, and season. Discounts may be available for children, seniors, and groups.
• Reservations: While some ferry trips may allow for walk-up boarding, making reservations in advance is often recommended to secure your preferred travel time and ensure availability.

Local Impact and Connections

• Community Integration: The Cross Bay Ferry enhances connectivity between St. Petersburg and Tampa, fostering greater collaboration and interaction between the two cities. It supports local tourism and provides residents with a convenient option for commuting.

Final Thoughts

The Cross Bay Ferry offers a refreshing and enjoyable way to travel between St. Petersburg and Tampa, combining convenience with a unique, scenic experience. Whether you’re commuting for work, exploring the attractions of both cities, or simply looking for a pleasant journey across Tampa Bay, the ferry provides a memorable and practical option. By choosing the Cross Bay Ferry, passengers can avoid traffic, enjoy stunning views, and contribute to a more sustainable form of transportation, all while connecting two of Florida’s vibrant urban centers.