Exciting news for residents and visitors to Anna Maria Island! Those waiting for the Bradenton to AMI ferry and water taxi service will either be getting a Thanksgiving surprise, a great Christmas present, or a last minute Happy New Year’s gift – the ferry service has announced that it will begin by the end of 2023.

This new mode of transportation promises to provide a unique and scenic way to traverse between downtown Bradenton and several stops on Anna Maria Island.

Originally slated to launch in late summer, the Miss Anna Maria and Downtown Duchess ferries encountered some delays. However, after some diligent work behind the scenes, progress is steadily marching forward. Signs are being crafted, and ramps are undergoing modifications to ensure they comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). It’s heartening to see the dedication and effort from all parties involved, bringing us closer to this exciting transportation addition.

At the Manatee County Tourist Development Council Meeting held on October 16, Executive Director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, Elliott Falcione, provided a promising update. Falcione expressed the collective commitment of the cities involved in making this ferry service a reality, stating, “All of the cities involved have been really, really working hard to get this done. We’re really close.” These words are music to the ears of those eagerly awaiting the ferry’s arrival.

So, What Can We Expect From The Bradenton Anna Maria Island Ferry

The service will initially operate on Fridays through Sundays, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. As for the stops, the ferry will offer three initial destinations: downtown Bradenton, AMI City Pier, and the Bridge Street Pier. These locations are strategically chosen to offer passengers a convenient and picturesque journey.

But that’s not all – a fourth stop at the Coquina South Boat Ramp is in the pipeline, offering even more accessibility to this convenient mode of transport. Additionally, there have been preliminary discussions with officials from Longboat Key regarding potential ferry stops on the island, although specific details have yet to be ironed out.

Now, let’s talk about pricing. One-way tickets for adults will be reasonably priced at $8, while seniors can enjoy a discounted rate of $6. For families traveling with children, tickets for youngsters aged 3 to 11 will cost $5, and the youngest travelers under 3 years old will ride for free.

With these affordable rates and the promise of scenic views, the Bradenton – Anna Maria Island Ferry Service is poised to become a cherished addition to our island life. As the end of 2023 draws near, we eagerly anticipate the inaugural voyage and the exciting opportunities it will bring for residents and visitors alike. Stay tuned for further updates as we embark on this new maritime adventure!

Make sure you swing by Hurricane Hank’s on your next trip to Anna Maria Island. We’ve been serving up incredible dining experiences since we first opened our doors back in 2000. Our mission has always been to provide our guests with unforgettable moments, whether you’re a local or a visitor to Holmes Beach and Anna Maria Island.

Over the years, we’ve carefully curated a menu that features our customers’ all-time favorites alongside tantalizing new dishes. We believe in using only the finest ingredients, allowing their natural flavors to shine through in every bite.

We’re located at 5346 Gulf Drive in Holmes Beach. We have parking!