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All Aboard! The 'Cross-Bay Ferry' is now reality, important dates and service info released

Posted at 11:03 AM, Sep 21, 2016
and last updated 2016-09-21 16:48:06-04

Starting October 15th, you can purchase tickets to travel on the brand new "Cross-Bay Ferry" from the St. Pete River Basin to the Tampa Riverwalk. 

The new ferry service, designed for day-tripping locals, sports fans and tourists, will begin on November 4th. 

RELATED | High-speed ferry project receives final approval

There is an exciting list of events surrounding the launch of the new ferry service. 

  • October 15: Projected date for commencement of online ticket sales.
  • Late October: Vessel scheduled to arrive in Tampa Bay, subject to weather and transportation schedules.
  • Early November: Inaugural VIP launch trip and scheduled Friday/Saturday/Sunday service begins for the public on November 4 – designed for day-tripping locals, sports fans and tourists.
  • November 3 – November 18: Community and business organizations can experience the boat Mondays-Fridays through a series of pre-scheduled “Test the Waters” excursions. For organizations interested in special events or “Test the Waters” excursions, please go to CrossBayFerry.com.
  • Thanksgiving Week (Mon.-Wed.): Free “Test the Waters” events for the general public.
  • Week of November 28: Weekday service commences with Monday-Thursday commuter service and mid-day service for recreational and tourist trips.
  • December: Corporations and non-profit organizations will be able to "Make A Splash" and book a portion of the vessel for group sales on limited select dates as a way to support the project.

How much will the ferry service cost?

Ticket prices will likely begin at $10 per one-way trip, with special discounts for regular commuters and tickets will be available for purchase online. Visit the website here: http://crossbayferry.com/

What about the ferry itself? 

It is a 55-foot catamaran that can accommodate up to 149 passengers for the approximately 50-minute voyage between the cities. 

Where will the ferry dock? 

St. Petersburg yacht basin along Bay Shore Drive NE
Tampa Convention Center along the Riverwalk

The ferry will operate as a six month pilot program. If the ferry is a hit, it could stay in the Tampa area, but would only operate six months out of a year -- from November to April.