Pensacola Bay City Ferry

The Pensacola Bay City Ferry links three stops by water: downtown Pensacola, Fort Pickens and the Quietwater Beach landing on Pensacola Beach. It runs under a National Park Service concession, and it’s a relaxed way to see the bay while skipping the bridge traffic and beach parking.

The boats

Two 149-passenger catamarans, Turtle Runner and Pelican Perch, have an air-conditioned cabin, restrooms, a bar and bike racks. Each leg takes about 45 minutes.

2026 season and fares

• Schedule: the National Park Service lists Saturday service from March 14 to October 24, 2026, starting at 9 a.m. The route runs Pensacola to Fort Pickens to Pensacola Beach, with several returns a day. Check the ferry’s own calendar for added dates.
• Round-trip fares: $30 for adults; $24 for seniors 62 and up, military, college students and people with disabilities; $20 for ages 3 to 15. Kids 2 and under ride free.
• Park fee: the Gulf Islands National Seashore entrance fee for Fort Pickens is separate.

Good to know

• Tickets: book online or in the app. If you buy at the landing, arrive 30 minutes early.
• Pets: not allowed, except service dogs.
• Landings: 750 S. Commendencia St. downtown, and Building 16 at Fort Pickens.