United States
Pensacola (Downtown) to Pensacola Beach - Quietwater Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
Departs
Pensacola (Downtown)
Florida
Arrives
Pensacola Beach - Quietwater
Florida
Gulf Islands National SeashoreAt a glance
The Pensacola (Downtown) to Pensacola Beach - Quietwater ferry takes about 1h, with 3 listed sailings between 09:00 and 15:00. It is operated by Gulf Islands National Seashore.
- First sailing
- 09:00
- Last sailing
- 15:00
- Sailings listed
- 3
- Crossing
- 1h
Pensacola (Downtown) to Pensacola Beach - Quietwater ferry timetable
| Departs | Duration | Operator | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|
| 09:00 | 1h | Gulf Islands National Seashore | Sat |
| 12:00 | 1h | Gulf Islands National Seashore | Sat |
| 15:00 | 1h | Gulf Islands National Seashore | Sat |
Times are indicative and may change seasonally. Confirm with the operator before travelling.
About the Pensacola (Downtown) – Pensacola Beach - Quietwater crossing
Gulf Islands National Seashore provides a Saturday-only ferry service, with three sailings from downtown Pensacola to Quietwater Beach taking one hour. The first departure is at 09:00, and the last leaves at 15:00. This is a domestic route across Pensacola Bay, covering a distance of approximately 6 nautical miles.
The ferry operates as a round-trip excursion. From Pensacola Beach, passengers can also connect to a separate ferry service onward to Fort Pickens.
Vehicles, pets & onboard
- Concessioner passenger ferries
- Seasonal (spring–Oct)
- Historic forts
- Beaches & dolphins
Onboard facilities and vehicle, pet and luggage policies vary by operator and vessel; confirm details with the operator before booking.
Getting to & from the ports
Frequently asked questions
Who runs this ferry crossing?
Gulf Islands National Seashore.
When's the first ferry of the day?
The first sailing leaves at 09:00.
On which days does the ferry operate?
It runs Sat.
How long, roughly, is the crossing?
About 1h under normal conditions.
Is this a domestic or international route?
Domestic — the whole crossing stays within United States.
How many times a day does it sail?
3 sailings a day, Sat.
How much does a ticket cost?
Ticket prices vary by operator, season and whether you bring a vehicle. Check the operator (Gulf Islands National Seashore) for current fares.
Can I do this as a day trip?
A day trip is often possible: with a crossing of about 1h and several sailings a day (first 09:00, last 15:00), you can return the same day. Always check the return timetable before you go.
Does the ferry run all year?
Sailings operate on selected days, and frequency can change between the summer and winter seasons. The timetable above shows the latest published departures — confirm with the operator for off-season dates.
Can I take a car on this ferry?
Gulf Islands National Seashore does not list vehicle space on this service — plan to travel as a foot passenger. If you need to bring a car, check with the operator for alternative crossings.
Can I take a pet on this ferry?
Most ferry operators allow pets on this route, usually in a carrier, on deck or in designated pet areas or cabins, and registered assistance dogs travel free. Rules and any fees vary by operator and vessel — check with Gulf Islands National Seashore, so declare your pet when booking.
What's the luggage allowance?
Foot passengers can normally bring their own luggage aboard at no extra charge, with racks or a luggage area near the entrance, and there is usually no airline-style weight limit. Oversized or excess items may carry a fee, so check with the operator if you are travelling with bulky baggage.
Continue your journey
Onward sailings from Pensacola Beach - Quietwater
Plan a multi-leg trip — these ferries depart Pensacola Beach - Quietwater.
Sharing a stop
Crossings calling at Pensacola (Downtown) or Pensacola Beach - Quietwater
Other ferries that stop at the same quays — handy for connections and nearby travel.
Timetable valid Mar 14, 2026 – Oct 31, 2026.
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated July 26, 2026.
Operated by
Ports on this route
Pensacola (Downtown) on the map
Travelled the Pensacola (Downtown) → Pensacola Beach - Quietwater ferry?
Rate this crossing to help fellow travellers.
Help us keep schedules accurate — we read every report.