Ride the St. Augustine Water Shuttle Between Vilano Beach and Historic Downtown

How about taking a scenic trip across the bay while beating the traffic and learning more about St. Augustine’s natural environment and culture?

FAQs

Skip the traffic and experience one of the most scenic ways to explore Florida's Historic Coast aboard the St. Augustine Water Shuttle. Operating daily (weather permitting), this convenient passenger ferry connects the Vilano Beach Public Pier with the St. Augustine Municipal Marina, offering visitors a relaxing cruise across Matanzas Bay while providing spectacular views of the Castillo de San Marcos, the Bridge of Lions, coastal wildlife, and—if you're lucky—playful dolphins.

Why Ride the St. Augustine Water Shuttle?

The St. Augustine Water Shuttle isn't just transportation—it's an attraction in itself.

Passengers enjoy:

Beautiful views of Matanzas Bay
Opportunities to spot dolphins and coastal birds
A stress-free alternative to downtown parking
Easy access between Vilano Beach and Historic Downtown
A relaxing boat ride that's perfect for couples, families, and day-trippers

Whether you're spending the day on Vilano Beach or exploring St. George Street, riding the shuttle lets you enjoy both destinations without moving your car.

Where Does the Shuttle Go?

The shuttle operates between:

Vilano Beach Public Pier

Beach access
Restaurants and shops
Fishing pier
Vilano Beach Main Street district

and

St. Augustine Municipal Marina

Plaza de la Constitución
Historic District
St. George Street
Castillo de San Marcos
Downtown attractions, museums, restaurants, and shopping

Schedule & Tickets

The St. Augustine Water Shuttle operates daily, weather permitting.

Current one-way fare:

$15 per person, per trip

Reservations are strongly recommended, as seating is limited and departures may vary based on tour schedules. Riders should call ahead to confirm availability and pickup times.

Current scheduled departures include:

From Vilano Beach to Downtown

Noon
1 p.m.
3 p.m.
6:45 p.m.
8 p.m. (last pickup)

From Downtown to Vilano Beach

12:30 p.m.
1:30 p.m.
3:30 p.m.
7:15 p.m.
8:30 p.m. (last pickup)

Schedules are subject to change and should always be confirmed when booking.

Make a Day of It

Start your day relaxing on Vilano Beach, then hop aboard the shuttle for an afternoon exploring historic downtown St. Augustine. Browse unique shops along St. George Street, tour the Castillo de San Marcos, enjoy waterfront dining, or visit one of the city's museums before catching an evening shuttle back across the bay.

Or reverse the adventure—stay downtown and use the shuttle to spend a few hours soaking up the sun at Vilano Beach without worrying about traffic or parking.

Reserve Your Seat

To reserve your ride or confirm departure times, call 904-759-2759. The shuttle operates daily, weather permitting, and advance reservations are recommended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does the St. Augustine Water Shuttle go?

The shuttle travels between the Vilano Beach Public Pier and the St. Augustine Municipal Marina in Historic Downtown.

How much does the St. Augustine Water Shuttle cost?

One-way fare is $15 per person.

Do I need a reservation?

Reservations are recommended because seating is limited. Walk-ups may be accommodated if space is available.

Does the shuttle operate every day?

Yes, it operates daily, weather permitting.

Can I bring a bicycle or stroller?

Visitors should call when making reservations to ask about accommodating larger items.