New operator picked for Tampa Bay ferry, plans to buy two vessels

Hubbard’s Ferry, a family-owned fishing and cruising venture out of Madeira Beach, has been selected to operate a daily, year-round ferry service between Tampa and St. Petersburg.

By Anastasia Dawson
| 4:50 p.m. September 26, 2025
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Madeira Beach-based Hubbard's Ferry, a subsidiary of Hubbard's Marina, was selected by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority to operate the Tampa Bay Ferry.

Tampa Bay-Lakeland

A local family famous for private charters, dolphin cruises and ferry services has been selected to bring back ferry service between Tampa and St. Petersburg.

Hubbard’s Ferry, a subsidiary of fishing and cruising venture Hubbard’s Marina, announced Friday it has been selected by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority to operate the Tampa Bay Ferry, with daily, year-round service expected to start next year.

The new ferry service takes the place of the Cross Bay Ferry, which was suspended last spring when the Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority cancelled its contract with Boston-based operator HMS Ferries last spring.