The Cross Bay Ferry made its hotly anticipated return to Tampa Bay on October 4. The vessel made it through Hurricane Milton and is officially up and cruising again between downtown St. Pete and Tampa.
The ferry operates Wednesday through Sunday, providing a convenient and scenic transportation option for residents and visitors alike. In a boost for Tampa Bay Lightning fans, the ferry will also run for all home games during the 2024-2025 NHL season, making it easier to catch a game without the hassle of traffic.
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For Lightning games, on Mondays and Tuesdays, the ferry will follow its Wednesday and Thursday schedule, with departures from St. Pete starting at 4:45pm. Key game days include October 15, October 28, November 25, December 17, and several dates in 2025, such as January 28, February 4, February 25, March 4, March 17, March 25, and April 15. In addition, the ferry will extend its hours on December 22, December 29, February 23, and April 13 to accommodate Lightning game nights. Post-season home games will also see ferry service, though game dates may be subject to change.
A sweet ride around Tampa Bay
Fares for the Cross Bay Ferry are designed to be accessible. Adults can enjoy a round trip for $24, while seniors (65+) and military personnel pay $22. Students with a valid college ID also receive a discounted fare of $22, and youth (ages 5-18) can ride for $20. Those using wheelchairs can travel for just $10, and 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 able to pick up guests arrive at Port St. Pete, as it did last season. Those arriving in Tampa can utilize the Tampa streetcar, in addition to the Tampa Riverwalk to explore multiple parts of the city.
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The vessel itself offers both indoor and outdoor seating and includes a bar serving beer and wine, as well as snacks for purchase. It’s also dog-friendly, so passengers can bring their furry companions along for the ride.
Reserve your ferry tickets online. See the full ferry schedule on its website. 
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