ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — The Cross-Bay Ferry is getting ready to kick off its fifth season of service in Tampa Bay.
Local leaders, including Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Kriseman, boarded the ferry at the Tampa Convention Center for an inaugural VIP ride on Tuesday before service opens to the public on Thursday.
Once they arrived at the ferry's St. Pete terminal at North Straub Park, public officials got the season started by laying out their plans for the ferry's future.
As sponsorship shifts from St. Petersburg to Hillsborough County, leaders ensured that the Cross-Bay Ferry will continue to receive support from multiple surrounding cities and counties.
This season, the ferry will run from Oct. 21, 2021, to May 22, 2022. That's one month longer than it's run in previous years. It's all part of a plan that Hillsborough County leaders voted on in June to gradually expand service for the Cross-Bay Ferry, so it will ultimately operate year-round.
This season will also feature an expanded daily schedule, later evening runs and updated rates for ferry riders. All the details can be found on the Cross-Bay Ferry website.
Interested in seeing what it's like to take a ride? We got you front seats on the ferry ahead of Thursday's launch for the season.
Future plans for the ferry include subsequent additions each year so that, beginning Oct. 1, 2024, the ferry will bring travelers between St. Pete and Tampa throughout the year.
The expanded schedule will also allow opportunities for fans to travel on the ferry to different sporting events, like Tampa Bay Lightning games or regular season Rays baseball games.
The water transit service is popular among those living in the Tampa Bay area and visitors alike who prefer to take the "scenic route." The 55-minute ferry ride, along with other public transportation, will provide more options for commuters, giving them an alternative to sitting in traffic.
You can watch the full press conference below.