Bradenton Charter Bus Prices
| Bus Type | Per Hour | Per Day | Per Mile |
|---|---|---|---|
| 50 to 56 Passenger Charter Bus | $184 – $504+ | $1,785 – $3,785 | $6.06 – $10.01 |
| 40 to 50 Passenger Charter Bus | $154 – $464+ | $1,706 – $3,571 | $6.11 – $10.06 |
| 25 to 35 Passenger Minibus | $165 – $465+ | $1,623 – $3,478 | $4.11 – $10.06 |
| 20 to 24 Passenger Minibus | $165 – $455+ | $1,595 – $3,350 | $4.12 – $9.07 |
| 15 to 18 Passenger Minibus | $153 – $433+ | $1,515 – $3,250 | $4.14 – $8.09 |
| Entertainer Coach | $305 – $540+ | $3,006 – $5,006+ | $6.11 – $10.06 |
| Yellow School Bus | $131 – $436+ | $1,520 – $3,655 | $6.09 – $10.04 |
| Shuttle Bus | $155 – $450+ | $1,501 – $3,636 | $6.14 – $10.09 |
Bradenton Party Bus Prices
| Type of Party Bus | Cost Per Hour Weekdays | Cost Per Hour Weekends | Cost Per Day |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Party Bus (10 to 20 Passengers) | $171 – $441+ | $197 – $467+ | $1,012 – $2,912+ |
| Medium Party Bus (20 to 40 Passengers) | $208 – $508+ | $211 – $491+ | $1,188 – $3,488+ |
| Large Party Bus Rental (40 to 50 Passengers) | $244 – $494+ | $260 – $540+ | $1,489 – $3,889+ |
| Mercedes Sprinter Party Bus | $178 – $418+ | $190 – $460+ | $982 – $3,882+ |
* Prices may vary greatly in your city and state. Due to the impact of COVID-19 and inflation, all rental prices shown are past estimates. Actual pricing may be significantly higher depending on availability and location. To get real-time pricing, call us 941-297-6490 or use our online quote tool.
How Much Does a Charter Bus Rental Cost in Bradenton?
On average, booking a charter bus in Bradenton costs about $1,625 per day, but your final rate will depend on several factors. For example, an 18-passenger minibus typically ranges from $900 to $1,400 per day, making it a budget-friendly option for smaller groups heading to places like LECOM Park or Robinson Preserve. If you need something larger, a 25-passenger minibus usually falls between $1,100 and $1,600 per day, ideal for corporate outings to IMG Academy or school field trips to The Bishop Museum of Science and Nature.
For big events requiring maximum capacity, a 56-passenger charter bus averages $1,700 to $2,400 per day. These full-size coaches are perfect for transporting wedding guests to Anna Maria Island or shuttling sports fans to Tampa Bay Buccaneers games at Raymond James Stadium. All vehicles come with standard amenities like reclining seats, climate control, and onboard WiFi, but you can request additional features such as ADA accessibility or extra luggage space depending on your group’s needs.
Keep in mind that rates may be higher during peak seasons like spring break or major local events such as the Bradenton Blues Festival. To get the most accurate quote, provide us with your exact itinerary, group size, and any special requests when you call. We’ll help you find the right bus at the best price for your next trip anywhere in Manatee County or beyond.
How Much Does a Party Bus Rental Cost in Bradenton?
In Bradenton, party bus rentals start at around $135 per hour for smaller vehicles that hold 10–20 people. Larger party buses that accommodate 25–40 passengers typically cost between $210 and $360+ per hour, depending on the exact size and features. Most companies require a minimum booking of 4–5 hours, so expect to pay at least $1,000–$1,500 total for a standard night out.
Popular options include 20-passenger Sprinter limo buses (about $150–$200/hr), 30-passenger party buses ($225–$325/hr), and 40-passenger “land yacht” buses with multiple bars and dance poles ($300–$400+/hr). All packages include basic amenities like LED lighting, sound systems, coolers, and perimeter seating. You can upgrade to premium audio, video screens, or custom interiors for an additional fee.
Rates are highest on Friday and Saturday nights, especially during peak seasons like spring break or Gasparilla weekend. Weekday rentals or off-season bookings may qualify for discounts. Gratuity is typically not included in the base price; plan to tip your driver 10–20% for good service. For the best deal, book your party bus at least 2–3 weeks in advance and have a firm headcount ready when requesting quotes.
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Call Now: 941-297-6490What Factors Influence Charter Bus Rental Pricing?
The main factors that affect the price of your charter bus rental include the total distance traveled, length of the trip, type and size of bus, time of year, and any special amenities requested. Additional variables like tolls, parking fees, and whether you need an ADA-accessible vehicle can also impact the final quote. Understanding these elements will help you budget more accurately for your next group outing.
Distance and Duration of Your Trip
Charter bus pricing is largely based on how far you plan to travel and for how long. Local trips within Bradenton or Sarasota—such as shuttling guests between hotels and wedding venues on Anna Maria Island—are usually charged by the hour with a 5-hour minimum (typically $185–$325 per hour depending on bus size). For example, a round-trip from downtown Bradenton to Coquina Beach and back would fall into this category.
Longer journeys, like taking a youth sports team from Bradenton to Orlando’s theme parks or a church group to Key West, are often billed by the day or by total mileage. Daily rates apply when your itinerary spans multiple days but covers moderate distances each day (e.g., touring different Gulf Coast cities), while per-mile pricing kicks in for single-day, long-distance hauls exceeding 150–200 miles one way.
The Time of Year
Bus rental demand in Florida peaks during certain seasons, which can drive up prices. Spring (March–May) is especially busy due to school field trips, graduations, and spring break travel to places like Siesta Key or Busch Gardens. Fall weekends see increased bookings for college football games and festivals, while summer remains steady with camp transportation and family reunions.
If you’re planning an event during these high-demand periods—such as a graduation shuttle to LECOM Park or a summer camp excursion—it’s wise to reserve your bus several months ahead. Off-peak times like mid-winter (excluding holidays) may offer slightly lower rates and greater vehicle availability.
The Day of the Week
Weekend rentals generally cost more than weekday bookings because of higher demand for events like weddings, concerts, and nightlife excursions. For instance, hiring a party bus for a Saturday bachelor/bachelorette party in Ybor City will be priced at the top end of the scale. Conversely, corporate commuters or university groups traveling on Tuesdays or Wednesdays might secure better deals.
Some operators offer discounted rates for multi-day charters that include at least one weekday, so if your schedule is flexible, consider shifting your itinerary to take advantage of this.
Your Starting and Ending Locations
The location where your trip begins and ends affects the total cost due to “deadhead” mileage—the distance the bus must travel empty to reach your pickup point and return to base after drop-off. Buses are typically dispatched from major hubs like Tampa, St. Petersburg, or Sarasota. If you’re chartering a bus for a cruise transfer from Port Manatee but your group is staying in a remote area east of I-75, expect to pay for those extra miles.
To minimize deadhead fees, choose central pickup locations close to main highways or request a quote from a company with a depot near your origin. One-way trips that leave the bus far from its starting point (e.g., sending a group to Miami without a return) may incur additional repositioning charges.
Bus Type and Size
Larger buses with more seats generally cost more to rent, but they also reduce the per-person expense for big groups. A standard 56-passenger motorcoach is ideal for moving lots of people at once—such as convention attendees to the Bradenton Area Convention Center—and comes with amenities like restrooms, TVs, and WiFi. Smaller minibuses (18–35 seats) are cheaper overall and work well for short hops around town or shuttle circuits.
Specialty vehicles like entertainer coaches or custom-wrapped branded buses command premium rates. When comparing options, think about both your headcount and desired comfort level; sometimes booking one large bus is more economical than splitting into multiple smaller ones.
Tolls and Parking
Tolls and parking fees are not included in your initial quote and should be budgeted separately. Major highways like I-275 over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge and sections of the Selmon Expressway into downtown Tampa have electronic tolls ranging from $1.50 to $5.00 per crossing. You can either provide the driver with a prepaid toll pass or reimburse these expenses after the trip.
Many destinations require paid parking for oversized vehicles. For example, Raymond James Stadium charges $75–$100 for bus parking during NFL games, while cruise terminals at Port Tampa Bay assess fees of $15–$20 per day. Downtown areas may have designated bus lots with variable rates; always check with your venue in advance to secure a spot and avoid last-minute hassles.
Booking Timing
Reserving your charter bus well in advance gives you access to the full fleet and the most competitive prices. Last-minute bookings—defined as less than two weeks before departure—may be subject to rush charges or limited to whatever vehicles are still available. This is particularly true during peak seasons when many buses are already contracted out to schools or event planners.
As soon as you know your travel dates and group size, lock in your reservation with a signed agreement and deposit. Early birds often benefit from promotional discounts or package deals, especially for repeat customers or large-volume accounts.
Cost-saving Tips to Consider
To get the best value on your Bradenton charter bus rental, consolidate passengers into the fewest number of vehicles possible by choosing the right bus size for your group. Flexibility with travel dates can help you avoid peak pricing—for example, scheduling a company retreat midweek instead of Friday–Sunday. Start and end your itinerary at locations close to major roads to reduce deadhead mileage, and limit the number of separate pickup/drop-off points to keep the total hours down.
Request only the amenities you truly need; skipping extras like onboard entertainment systems or custom branding can lower the base rate. Finally, compare quotes from different providers and ask about any current specials or package rates for recurring trips such as church shuttles or sports team transport.
Get Instant Online Quotes
Ready to find out exactly how much your next charter bus rental will cost? Call our 24/7 reservations team at 941-297-6490 or fill out the online form with your trip details. We’ll generate a personalized quote in less than a minute and help you choose the best vehicle for your budget and itinerary. Whether you’re organizing a single-day outing or a complex multi-bus operation, we make it easy to book reliable transportation anywhere in Bradenton, Sarasota, or across the Suncoast region.
Sample Trip Pricing Examples
Below are a few sample pricing examples for common trips in Bradenton, FL and around Florida. Please note that these are estimates and your actual price may vary based on your specific needs and travel dates.
Exploring the Adirondacks
Mr. Carver is planning a field trip for his 5th grade class of 19 students. He intends to depart from Albany at 8:30 AM, and return to Pine Hills Elementary School by 4:00 PM the same day. Upon arrival, they intend to view the educational displays at the Adirondack Interpretive Center, enjoy lunch near Lake George, and hike at the Prospect Mountain Trail. Due to the specifics of his itinerary, Mr. Carver was quoted at $1,825.00. Because his group included 19 students, himself, and 2 chaperones, he booked a 25-passenger minibus that made costs average out to about $87 per person.
Cruising From Manhattan
Chante decided she wants to have her wedding ceremony aboard a cruise ship. She’s invited 17 of her closest friends and family, and they’re heading from a meetup point in Albany to Manhattan Cruise Terminal for a three-day cruise. Because the cruise ship casts off at 10:00 AM, the group has decided to drive to NYC the night before and head to the port the next morning from their hotel. Chante’s reservation specialist booked her a 20-passenger minibus for the departure and return. After factoring the costs of getting to Manhattan from Albany, staying the night, departing early the next morning to the port, waiting for the passengers to return, and then driving the group back home, the cost of the rental is about $6,400. Add in four nights of hotel rentals (for the driver) at about $60 per night, and the trip totals $6,640, or about $369 per person.
Charter to the State Championship
Headed to the state championship game, The Albany High School football team is looking to put the finishing touches on an undefeated season. The coaching staff plans on leaving Albany at 12:00 PM and arriving in Syracuse at 4:00 PM before a 7:30 PM kickoff. Head Coach Rusty Queenan has worked long and hard to get his team to this point, and it’s pertinent that they show up on time and ready to play. Coach Queenan has a roster of around 60 players, so his reservation specialist recommended he book two 56-passenger charter buses to accommodate the team, coaches, and training staff. The game will conclude no later than 10:30 PM, so the team will likely be back in Albany no later than 3:00 AM. Because this is a full-day trip with two buses, estimated costs totaled around $6,900.
Senior Citizen Trip in Saratoga Springs
An assisted living community administrator contacts us to arrange a minibus rental for their next social outing. Members of the community will travel to see the Saratoga Performing Arts Center for a symphony performance. Since several of the residents use wheelchairs, the minibus needs to be ADA-accessible, which won’t cost any extra (but they will need to give at least two weeks’ notice). With 3 staff members and 15 residents in attendance, our reservation agents paired the group with a compact minibus. The total outing will take about 4 hours, at a rate of $175 per hour, bringing the rental cost to $700. They will also need to pay $10 for parking, bringing the total trip cost to $710.
Field Trip in Downtown Albany
An administrator from a local middle school would like to rent full-size charter buses for a field trip in Downtown Albany. The sixth-grade students will go to the new York State Museum for an educational tour and finish the day with recreational time at Washington Park. They plan to leave the school by 8 a.m. and return by 4 p.m., so they will be charged an hourly rate of $185. Since there are 102 students in the sixth grade and they are accompanied by 9 teachers, they will need two 56-person charter buses. The new York State Museum does not charge buses for parking, but they will still need to tip their driver.
The Albany Conference
A marketing organization is hosting a conference at a hotel and event center in Albany, NY. To ensure all attendees arrive on time to each workshop, the event coordinator has arranged for a minibus shuttle service to transport guests between the venue and several partner hotels throughout the city. One of the hotels offers free bus parking, which helps reduce overall costs, but the coordinator will still need to provide room and board for the driver. The conference will span three days, and with an average minibus rental rate of $1,125 per day in Albany, the base rental cost totals $3,375. The coordinator has also budgeted $350 for two nights of accommodations for the driver. After the event, the coordinator plans to tip the driver 15% for a job well done, which comes out to $506. Altogether, the total cost of the minibus rental, accommodations, and tip will be $4,231.
The Bachelorette Party
This February, Jessica is planning a bachelorette party for her best friend, Alyson. She’s inviting 15 of Alyson’s closest girlfriends to ride to a cooking class at Spoon & Whisk at 4 p.m., dinner at The Hollow Bar + Kitchen around 6 p.m., and then to a private dance class at The Dance Lab Albany at 8 p.m. The ladies will be traveling locally and will need room to store their gym clothes for the dance class. Their reservation specialist recommends an 18-passenger minibus that has overhead compartments to store their personal belongings. The driver will pick them up at Jessica’s house around 3:30 p.m. and bring them to each destination on their itinerary. The women will head back to Jessica’s house at 9:30 p.m. for food and cocktails. For a six-hour minibus rental with 17 passengers, Jessica receives a quote for $1,350.
