Hubbard's Marina Poised to Operate Cross Bay Ferry Service

New Operator for Cross Bay Ferry

• 🚢 The Cross Bay Ferry, which ended service five months ago due to contract issues, may soon resume operations with a new vendor: Hubbard's Marina.
• 🎯 Hubbard's Marina, known for its fishing charters and cruises, is being considered by the Pinellas Sun Coast Transit Authority (PSTA) to operate the ferry.

Proposed Ferry Service Details

• 🗓️ The plan is to run the ferry between St. Petersburg and Tampa 365 days a year, from 6:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m.
• 💰 Hubbard's Marina plans to operate the ferry for half the cost of the previous vendor.
• 🚤 PSTA staff recommended Hubbard's due to their nearly 100-year history in the community and their local boat-building and repair capabilities.

Future Plans and Funding

• 🤝 PSTA will present a 5-year interlocal agreement to St. Pete and Tampa City Councils for a vote.
• 💰 A nearly $5 million Federal Transit Administration grant will be used by PSTA to purchase the ferry boat, with Hubbard's assistance in selecting it.
• ⏳ While the exact docking locations in Tampa and St. Pete are undecided, Captain Dylan Hubbard expressed optimism about bringing the ferry back by spring break of next year, though he acknowledges it's ambitious.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Captain Dylan Hubbard highlighted the family history in waterborne transportation, dating back to his grandfather's rowboat service.