Commuters now have another way to get from downtown St. Petersburg to downtown Tampa.
The Cross Bay Ferry is back in Tampa Bay. It opens to the public Thursday with some big changes: the hours and the price.
When this seasonal ferry was first brought here two years ago, city leaders thought commuters might use it, so they started it early in the morning. It didn't really happen, so now they are trying more late afternoon, evening runs.
This schedule now appeals more to residents who want to enjoy a ride across the bay for dinner in either city. It now appeals to tourists who want to see both sides of the bay without having to drive.
It's also convenient for people in St. Petersburg to shuttle over for a Tampa Bay Lightning game without having to fight through rush-hour traffic.
In Tampa, the ferry docks adjacent to the Florida Aquarium. In St. Petersburg, the ferry docks in the marina near Vinoy Park.
City and county leaders on both sides of the bay say it a win-win for everyone. It could eventually lead to a ferry service that would be better suited to commuters.
St. Pete Mayor Rick Kriseman said he is excited about the future of the service.
"If you've never ridden this ferry, I can't say this enough, you've got to ride it. You've got to experience it," Kriseman said. "Aside from the fact that you're going to have a really great ride and not get frustrated behind the wheel of your car when you're stuck in traffic, but you're going to see our two communities in a way that you've never seen them before, unless you have the ability to get on a boat yourself."
Prices are lower this year too. $8 for adults, $3 for kids. The ferry services run Tuesdays through Sundays until April 30.
For the full price list and schedule, click or tap here for the Cross Bay Ferry website.
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