The four-year interlocal agreement includes a one-year opt-out by June 1. Commissioner Janet Long, who serves on the board of Forward Pinellas and the Pinellas County Transit System Authority, noted those two transportation planning agencies are working on an agreement to extend the existing Clearwater ferry service to Pinellas beaches using a state-of-the-art electric ferry that will provide a benefit to the entire county. Cruise Lines such as Carnival, Celebrity Cruises, Crystal Cruises, Cunard, Holland America, Princess, Royal Caribbean, Seabourn and Silversea all offer a wealth of, Which crab leg is the best? Very interesting initiative, however it still not a good option for a daily commuter. It'll start operating between downtown Tampa and downtown St. Petersburg, starting Thursday, Oct. 21.It will continue for the next seven months, while also offering later evening departures. It was awesome! Today, the ferry service utilizes a 149-passenger catamaran that docks at the Vinoy Boat Basin near the St. Pete Pier District while the Tampa Convention Center serves as the Tampa terminus. The Return of the Cross-Bay Ferry - St. Petersburg, Florida Year Four: the service will run from October 1, 2024 through Sept. 30, 2025. If plastic is not an ideal container for beverages, should we be drinking water out of glass? It was a smooth, magical trip with spectacular sunset views and the $10 fare was fare less than the sunset cruise we had thought about taking while on our vacation. Since there is so much more involved than a simple meal,, Which type of pedicure is best? Delighful experience. On the St. Petersburg side you get off the ferry at the last stop (20) for the Downtown Looper. Add daily parking fees and destination ground transportation (Uber, bus, cab, etc), and there is no telling how much one would actually spend in total each week. The ferry was breaking passenger records back in February 2020. It is not only an extended season with service running through May, but the service will also offer an extended by: WFLA 8 On Your Side Staff, Melanie Michael. If plastic is not an ideal container for beverages, should we be drinking water out of glass? It is the first year of a new four-year contract that calls for extending the service annually. The Cross Bay Ferry - Expanded Service Plan All rights reserved. Cross Bay Ferry previously offered rides Wednesday through Sunday, with fares running $8 each way. Bring your news, your perspective and your spark to the St Pete Catalyst and take your seat at the table. While in service, the ferry travels between the Tampa Convention Center and St. Petes North Straub Park. Once in St Pete we visited local craft breweries, had lunch, walked the park and caught the ferry back home again. Cross Bay Ferry returns service between St. Pete and Tampa READ: Hop on board: Cross-Bay Ferry connects locals to both sides of the bay. Our vision is a world-class transit system that connects and moves the Tampa Bay region. 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A group of us used the ferry to attend an event in Tampa. Gel pedicure. Those in a wheelchair can pay $5 for a one-way trip and $10 for a round trip. Cross Bay Ferry reaches uncharted waters - Tampa Bay Business Journal Cross-Bay Ferry: $14.23. Learn More. Tickets purchased for the 2022 - 2023 season may not be used for any subsequent seasons or services. Its much more affordable than renting and equipping your own small, What food is St Augustine known for? So at least for now, all of our focus is on trying our best for a successful start to the season that we have, and trusting that everything else will fall into place later.. The entire cost for this seasons service is just over $1 million. New College Of Florida Mold + Raymond James Daily Tours Return, Play To Explore Impact Of Environmental Tragedy On Farming Families, 1 Person Hospitalized With Injuries Following Ybor Heights House Fire, JOBLINK Job Fair 2023! The Columbia Cafe is in the Tampa Bay History Center on the River Walk about a 10 minute walk from The Convention Center where to ferry docks. However, the pilot program didn't pan out as expected. Its pretty much all paid parking unless youre lucky enough to find a spot on the street by the Vinoy Hotel. It is a collaboration among the cities of St. Petersburg and Tampa, the counties of Hillsborough and Pinellas, and the Florida Department of Transportation. The service, which kicks off in October, is scheduled to have a weekend transit service between St. Pete and downtown Tampa on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. The Florida Supreme Court is considering a challenge to the tax that arises from its distribution plan. Schedule: It departs from St. Petersburg on Wednesdays and Thursdays at 4:45 p.m., 10 a.m. on Saturdays and 11 a.m. on Sundays. A financially sound option for the daily commuter should be evaluated. Oct 14, 2021. It has operated seasonally for the past few years. is there a stop on the ferry that brings you to a spanish areas with restaurants? Fare-free SunRunner could end to keep homeless riders off St. Pete Beach, Top Tampa Bay area events for the week of Aug. 21-27, Free Everglades literacy classes are a good step for Florida | Editorial, Its hot at the St. Pete Pier. During a Hillsborough County commissioners meeting, in a 6-1 vote, the majority of the board voted to enter an agreement to financially support the waterborne service over the next four years, and increase its status to year-round operation by 2024. For only $12 for adults and $8 for Seniors, it's a great deal. The agreement between Pinellas and Hillsborough counties and the cities of St. Petersburg and Tampa calls for leasing ferries from national ferry-builder and operator HMS Ferries to operate six months of the year starting in mid-October for the next four years. After an overhaul they may return to St. Pete in November. But it would be nice to be in St. Pete by 10:00am and be able to spend a full day returning to Tampa around 6:30pm. Thats $120 weekly. A third of downtown Tampa is parking lots, city planners say they are actively trying to fix that, Disney files countersuit against Florida Gov. "I am even more enthusiastic today about this project that reduces cars on our roads, reduces nitrogen pollution in our bay and uses our waterways to take people to the places they want to go in an incredibly cost-effective way," Smith said. Here's What Tampa Grandparents Really Want For Grandparents' Day. The Cross Bay Ferry that connects St. Petersburg to Tampa will start its fourth season on Nov. 1 with new rules. TAMPA, Fla The Cross-Bay Ferry is back in business. Following its most successful season to date, with a record-breaking 62,130 riders from October 2021 to May 2022, the Cross-Bay Ferry will operate from the same terminal locations as in previous seasons. It runs from Ybor city to Franklin/whiting. The point is, many folks can walk to the ferry and do not incur additional transportation and parking fees. Add to that a 55-minute to and from cruise time seems likely to elicit a HARD NO for many cross-day commuters. The Cross Bay Ferry is a regional effort designed to lay the foundation for permanent, year-round ferry service. Privacy Policy | Copyright 2020 The St Petersburg Group. Turanchik countered that an after-hours and weekend ferry service has its own economic rewards. I am looking forward to riding the ferry for years to come.. Cross Bay Ferry returns in November with limited capacity TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) The Cross Bay Ferry is returning its service between St. Petersburg and Tampa starting Nov. 1. How Long Is The Ferry Ride From Dunedin To Clearwater Beach? This sounds interesting. In 2021, the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority (HART) applied for federal funding from the Federal Transit Administration. The cross-bay ferry will continue to run six months a year . Service requires votes from City and County governments in St. Peter, Tampa, Pinellas County and Hillsborough. Local leaders are still trying to decide whether the Cross Bay Ferry should operate year-round. I think citizens understand this. We greatly enjoyed our 50 minute ride there and back, spending just an hour having a quick lunch and walking around a little bit. more, #36 of 130 things to do in St. Petersburg, Evening Yacht Cruise with Optional Dining in St. Petersburg, 4-Hour St. Pete Pier to Egmont Key Experience by Ferry, Electric Paddle Board Dolphin Watching Tour of Shell Key Preserve, Island Sunset and Skyway Light Show in St. Petersburg, St. Pete Beach Dolphin Racer Speedboat Adventure, Skip the Line: The Florida Aquarium in Tampa Bay Ticket, St. Petersburg Jungle Prada Site History Tour, Tiki Boat - St. Pete Pier - The Only Authentic Floating Tiki Bar, St. Pete Dolphin Watching and Shelling Adventure, Private Guided Kayak Adventure via Mangrove to Shell key St. Pete, Guided Tampa Tour in a Deluxe Street Legal Golf Cart, Amazing Helicopter Tour of Treasure Island, John's Pass, Don CeSar Resort & Bay, Doc Ford's Rum Bar & Grille - St. Pete Pier, Great transportation option or just a cheap sightseeing cruise across Tampa Bay. Records from 1634 show that the Bay's first ferry transported passengers and goods across King's Creek, near modern-day Cape Charles, VA. For more information on the Cross Bay Ferry, click here. Snacks, drinks and alcoholic beverages will be available for purchase from the ferrys on-board bar. Or just walk to the end of the park and stand outside the Vinoy Renaissance hotel and thats Stop 1. So on this beautiful March day we went from St Pete to Tampa. In response to Long's comments about the use of an electric ferry, Miller said his company was the first in the country to convert a conventional car passenger ferry to battery power, the first to build a hybrid vessel and the first to launch a hydrogen-powered vessel only a month ago. Ferry leaders say the change could bring more business to local events and vendors. The main deck has indoor seating, a limited menu snack and drink bar and bow and stern open spaces. The Cross Bay Ferry docked at St. Petersburg's North Yacht Basin. She said the addition of a south Hillsborough County ferry launch on land donated by the Mosaic Co. to Hillsborough County will only add to its success, providing an easy way for the large population of military personnel living in south county to commute to MacDill Air Force Base and allowing the residents of south county to enjoy the shopping, dining and entertainment opportunities available in Pinellas County. The ship was clean and the crew was great. TAMPA The Cross-Bay Ferry begins its sixth season sailing across Tampa Bay on Wednesday. Author: 10 Tampa Bay. So I hope you join us in bringing on this transportation service that will bring people to the very businesses that have been hit hardest by the pandemic restaurants and shops.". This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The Tampa Bay Area Regional Transit Authority (TBARTA) works to advance regional transportation needs in Hernando, Hillsborough, Manatee, Pasco and Pinellas counties. French pedicure. Im not one of them, but a significant number of people live in downtown St. Petersburg and downtown Tampa. Fantastic ferry service that is an affordable, efficient and relaxing way to get between the harbours of Tampa and St. Petersburg. How far of a walk is it to amalie arena from where the ferry docks? I have since 2017 attempted to make financial sense of this service that was initially and continues to touted as an alternative to traffic congestion on the Howard Frankland Bridge: The fare pricing will range from $8 to $12 for a one-way ticket. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. The ferry has long been financially backed by Pinellas County commissioners, Hillsborough County commissioners, the City of St. Petersburg and the City of Tampa. The ferry goes between downtown St.Pete (with lots of restaurants) to downtown Tampa's Convention Center. Ebor City is a short Uber ride away with many Cuban and ethnic restaurants including the famous Columbia Restaurant. HART is now the ferry's project leader, taking over from the city of St. Petersburg. The agreement also states that any ferry ticket revenue exceeding $400,000 will be shared in a 50/50 split between HMS and Hillsborough County, which will then be shared equally among the four participating governments. But that doesn't necessarily mean we should participate in funding for everything that adds vitality to each of our 24 cities.". The Florida Aquarium is only a few blocks from Amalie Arena. This season, the ferry will run for seven months, which is a month longer than in previous seasons, HMS Ferries General Manager Kevin Fisher said. It runs as late as 11 p.m. on select nights. The ferry had 33,144 passengers at that point in the season, compared to 39,103 during its first season, according to a report from Bay News 9. Cross Bay Ferry | TBARTA Something feels very off about this venture. Limited food service is available on-board as well as coffee, tea, soft drinks, water and other beverages. Fried Shrimp. For the price you pay to get from one bay to the other, you cant beat it. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. She added that the vision for the ferry system hasn't changed since they launched the three-year pilot program. 98% of travelers recommend this experience. They leave on time, so make sure you abide by the rules. We chose that one. 1998 - 2023 Nexstar Media Inc. | All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. While the cross-bay ferry would benefit the city of St. Petersburg, she wondered if the advantages for Pinellas County at large justified the expenditure. My husband even spotted a large shark at the mouth of the harbour in St. Petersburg! New strain of COVID warrants attention, WHO says, Rare, flesh-eating bacteria kills 5 in Tampa Bay, Opioids, obesity ranked as top health threats: poll, Why are some street lights in Tampa tinted purple? All customers who purchase a ticket for the Cross-Bay Ferry and who park in the Sundial Garage will be given a parking pass, upon request of the ferry staff, which a patron can . Do not expect the schedule to begin before October. Your email address will not be published. We are unable to refund any lost or unused tickets. See related story: 10 Things To Know About The New Cross-Bay Ferry Service. The successful Cross Bay Ferry service between Tampa and St. Petersburg has shown the demand and support for ferry service in Tampa Bay. Nevertheless, he countered Burton's contention that the ferry isn't a regional service. The Cross Bay Ferry won a $4.9 million federal grant on Monday, Feb. 14, after months of high ridership. The 149-passenger, catamaran ferry will continue to dock at the Vinoy Boat Basin, adjacent to the St. Pete Pier while the Tampa Convention Center will continue to serve as the Tampa terminus. The Cross-Bay Ferry Project's mission is to introduce Tampa Bay area residents and visitors to water 96% of travelers recommend this experience. Absolutely. Can i bring my bicycle with me on the ferry? It would be lovely if additional sailing times could be added in the future. here to go to the Cross Bay Ferry website. The Board of County Commissioners nixed an agreement . By posting a comment, I have read, understand and agree to the Posting Guidelines. The Cross Bay Ferry, which takes passengers to and from Tampa to St. Pete is set to return Thursday and will run until May 22. . What type of vessel is it? Walked the riverwalk to Sparkman wharf, then around town, U of Tampa grounds, Harbor Island. This number is based on the percentage of all Tripadvisor reviews for this product that have a bubble rating of 4 or higher. 94% of travelers recommend this experience. Count me in if I dont have to wear a mask. Accidentally, we did so in time to catch the sunset from Tampa Bay. Left a message with no return call, sent emails to 3 different email addresses. We re-boarded the ferry 30 minutes later and made the trip back. You may also send your requests by mail to our TBARTA offices: 4902 Eisenhower Blvd., Suite 207, Tampa, FL 33634. Why is this year different? Cross Bay Ferry Returns to Tampa Bay on Oct. 21 Made us definitely want to spend a day or more exploring St. Petersburg next time we visit. Just a 45 minute trip. St. Petersburg, Fl (Oct. 17, 2022) - The Cross-Bay Ferry will begin its sixth season of operations across Tampa Bay on Wednesday, Oct. 19, 2022. Four local governments . The ferry's final departure from Tampa will be at 10:45 p.m. on Wednesdays and Thursdays, 11 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays, and 7:30 p.m. on Sundays. So sad that this is only offered until April 30. I certainly am going to take a ride in the near future. Hours of operation weekdays , from Tampa to St Pete in June 2019 thanks. McClures Bloody Mary Mixer. Instead of providing a commuter service, it turned into a party boat transporting affluent sports fans in St. Petersburg to Tampa Bay Lightning hockey games, said Peters. ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. - The Cross Bay Ferry will return next week with extended hours, officials announced. "We thought we were moving toward a commuter model but what is being proposed is an after 6 p.m. service. The Cross-Bay Ferry schedule is: Sunday: St. Pete Departure - 4:45 pm, 9 pm Tampa Departure - 6 pm, 10 pm Monday: Closed Tuesday - Thursday: St. Pete Departure - 4:45 pm, 9:45 pm Tampa Departure - 6 pm, 10:45 pm Friday - Saturday: St. Pete Departure - 10 am, 2pm, 4:45 pm, 10pm Tampa Departure - 11:30 am, 3:15 pm, 6 pm, 11 pm The Business Journals No service (year round or seasonal) has been announced yet. However, Kriseman along with Hillsborough County Commissioner Pat Kemp agreed on Hillsborough County taking the lead for this agreement with ferry operator HMS Ferries Inc. and South Swell Development. The ferry operators will continue to operate weeknight schedules to provide connections between the two downtowns when there are special events, and will operate service on all nights when the Tampa Bay Lightning are playing home games. Updated: 5:58 PM EDT October 30, 2020. The money would be better invested improving our roads or expanding real transit opportunities. We are unable to refund any lost or unused tickets. But it became apparent that the ferry is not an. What is the cost of parking by the ferry in st Pete. There was a later return at 10pm but not everyone likes returning at 11pm (pretty late which would mean we wouldnt be back to our hotel until coming up to midnight). If you want, What cruise lines go from Fort Lauderdale? The view of downtown St. Pete from the ferry. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Former councilman sees community value in strip malls, Tampa Bay Innovation Center selects AI startups for cohort, Firm acquires Nickelytics in multi-million-dollar deal. "We would recommend not doing that again until you develop the whole marketplace. TAMPA BAY, FL With this week's approval by the Pinellas County Commission, Tampa Bay will no longer be the only coastal metropolitan area in the country without a permanent ferry service. Adults were $20, seniors $16, children $10 and minors free. Which is the healthier option: plastic or glass? The ferry . Schedule & Rates - Cross Bay Ferry The 2019-2020 ferry season will run from Nov. 1 to April 30, 2020. You can catch a Cross Bay Ferry at two locations: Although the ferries will not start service for another couple weeks, tickets for rides are now on sale. The expiration of the current three-year license and operating agreement ended in May, which called for the city of St. Petersburg to issue a new solicitation for continued inter-city ferry service. Here is an inside tip we received earlier from the person selling tickets. The Cross-Bay Ferry docked at the Tampa Convention Center. Enter the details of the person you want to share this article with. People should expect to see the same local and state requirements seen in restaurants," Mory said. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Its future may still be murky, but for at least one season more the regions experimental Cross Bay Ferry will set sail across Tampa Bay, connecting passengers from downtown St. Petersburg and Tampa. Pecan Pie. Review Catalyst posting guidelines here. The seasonal Cross-Bay Ferry that connects Tampa and St. Pete will no longer ride a wave of uncertainty, as an agreement has been reached to keep it cruising for several years, and later become a year-round service. Subscribe now to get the latest news delivered right to your inbox. TIP: if you park in the Sundial garage in St Pete, tell the ferry people and theyll give you a voucher that scans at the parking garage machine for free parking, Cross Bay Ferry (St. Petersburg) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); We know whats best for our cities: Local leaders address housing crisis, Pinellas planning agency undergoes significant expansion, Hillsborough commissioners sink MacDill ferry partnership. Easy walk. "There's a major economic opportunity for the entire region in operating a ferry service on week nights and weekends to take residents and tourists across the bay for dining, special events, shopping and to visit beaches," he said. The Motocycle pictured in the article departing the Ferry is an all electric 2020 Harley Davidson LiveWire, making it the first EV to cross the bay on a ferry. "In my opinion, this is a collosal waste of money for very minimal ridership. Burton reminded the commission that the four-year agreement before them would not include daily commuter service. A fantastic punctual ferry service! The seasonal ferry service between the downtowns of Tampa and St. Petersburg returns for its fifth.

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