Smooth Sailing

Why it matters: The Sarasota Bradenton Ferry Co. plans to connect residents and visitors through a regular ferry service expected to start in early 2018.

In 2017, the Sarasota Bradenton Ferry Co. floated a survey to the general community.

The company sought feedback about how often people thought they might ride the ferry and why they would take the trip — from commuting and sightseeing to day trips and evenings out.

Sarasota Bradenton Ferry Co. Director of Marketing Chris Johnson says the company takes community involvement seriously. It's now reviewing the more than 700 survey responses.

The ferry is expected to be operational in the first quarter. The company will announce a specific launch date shortly after Jan. 1, Johnson says. Plans are for the 65-foot, 149-passenger catamaran to connect people from downtown Sarasota, Anna Maria Island and downtown Bradenton. It will take about 28 minutes to get from Sarasota to Anna Maria, then 32 minutes to get from Anna Maria to Bradenton, say ferry officials.  

Johnson says government entities have approved the ferry, and the final hurdle is the embarkation point at the 10th Street boat basin in Sarasota, which is now being dredged. Johnson declined to comment on the cost of the startup phase of the project, or how much Sarasota Bradenton Ferry Co. has invested so far. He says no public money has been used for ferry.

The company hasn't set all ticket prices yet, but Johnson says a single round-trip ticket will be $15. Officials are considering commuter passes, day passes and bundles that would offer other cost options.

Ahead of its maiden voyage, the vessel is complete and in Fort Lauderdale. It's gone through sea trials twice — once before Hurricane Irma and once after the storm. Johnson says the ferry will help bring Sarasota and Bradenton together.