Manatee County Prepares for Arrival of Larger Ferry Boat as Service Expansion Plans Move Forward
Manatee County is set to receive delivery of a third ferry boat this July, aiming to expand its popular passenger ferry service between downtown Bradenton and Bradenton Beach. Unlike the two pontoon-style catamarans currently operating, the new vessel will be larger and fully enclosed, offering greater capacity and enhanced comfort for riders.
At the April 21 meeting of the county’s Tourist Development Council (TDC), officials discussed ongoing efforts to identify and establish additional landing sites for the ferry service. These new landings will accommodate the larger ferry and the two smaller “hopper” boats intended to transport visitors up and down Anna Maria Island. The goal is to ease traffic congestion by encouraging visitors to use the ferry system rather than driving.
Elliott Falcione, executive director of the Bradenton Area Convention and Visitors Bureau, emphasized the urgency of expanding ferry access across the seven-mile stretch of Anna Maria Island, describing it as "vital" to improving local transportation and the visitor experience.
According to operator Trisha Rodriguez of Gulf Coast Water Taxi, the ferry service launched in January 2024 has carried 42,612 passengers. Rodriguez noted that ridership numbers are strong despite setbacks caused by hurricanes Helene and Milton, which damaged some landing infrastructure, particularly the walkway at Anna Maria City Pier.
Charlie Hunsicker, director of the county’s natural resources department, updated the TDC on environmental challenges associated with establishing new landings. Environmental assessments and permitting will be required, particularly because the new boat’s larger size—about 30 tons—could impact sensitive seagrass and shell areas.
Sherri Swanson, ecological services division manager, detailed potential options for new landings. For Anna Maria, alternatives include sites along the northside of the pier or between the pier and the jetty, with new walkway construction likely needed. Permitting efforts for these options are now underway.
In Holmes Beach, trials at Waterline Marina faced difficulties, and the county continues to assess other possibilities, including at the Kingfish Boat Ramp. On the southern end of the island near Coquina, potential landing sites include areas near Leffis Key, an existing boat ramp, or a commercial dock.
The TDC took no formal action on the ferry expansion at the April 21 meeting. The next TDC meeting is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on Monday, June 16, at the Center of Anna Maria Island, 407 Magnolia Avenue, Anna Maria.
A Manatee County map shows an existing ferry service stop in Bradenton Beach and potential landings. Islander Courtesy Images