Cross Bay Ferry Returns for Year-Round Tampa-St. Pete Service
The Cross Bay Ferry is set for a comeback, resuming service between Tampa and St. Pete on Friday, October 4. The ferry will operate from Wednesday to Sunday, offering a…
The Cross Bay Ferry is set for a comeback, resuming service between Tampa and St. Pete on Friday, October 4. The ferry will operate from Wednesday to Sunday, offering a convenient and scenic transportation alternative for both residents and visitors. In a huge perk for Tampa Bay Lightning fans, the ferry will operate for all home games during the 2024-2025 NHL season, giving easy access to games without the stress of traffic.
According to operator HMS Ferries, the 149-passenger ferry, usually in service from October to May, will now be accessible year-round.
For Lightning games on Mondays and Tuesdays, the ferry will follow its Wednesday and Thursday schedule, with departures from St. Pete beginning at 4:45 p.m. Key game days include October 15, October 28, November 25, December 17, and several dates in 2025: January 28, February 4, February 25, March 4, March 17, March 25, and April 15.
Additionally, the ferry will extend its hours on December 22, December 29, February 23, and April 13 to accommodate Lightning game nights. Ferry service will also be available for post-season home games, though game dates may be subject to change.
Cross Bay Ferry fares are set to be affordable. Adults can enjoy a round trip for $24, while seniors (65+) and military personnel pay $22. Students with a valid college ID also benefit from a discounted fare of $22, and youth (ages 5-18) can ride for $20. Those using wheelchairs can travel for just $10, while children under 4 ride for $2.
The ferry departs from two convenient locations: the Port of St. Pete at 250 8th Ave SE, St. Petersburg, and the Tampa Convention Center at 333 S. Franklin St., Tampa. The looper trolley in St. Pete will be available to pick up guests arriving at Port St. Pete, just like last season. Arrivals in Tampa can utilize the Tampa streetcar, alongside the Tampa Riverwalk to explore various parts of the city.
The vessel itself features both indoor and outdoor seating, along with a bar serving beer and wine, as well as snacks for purchase. It's also dog-friendly, allowing passengers to bring their furry friends along for the ride.
Several people took to Instagram to express their excitement about the announcement. “I have never done this before and feel like I’ve been missing out. So convenient versus driving!” one commenter noted. “ooooo adding to our bucket list [heart eyes emoji],” another user wrote. Someone else added, “Yayyy I need to ride her this year!”
