As a city surrounded by water, Seattle’s ferry system is an essential part of its transportation infrastructure. With dozens of routes connecting the city to nearby islands and peninsulas, the ferry system can be a bit overwhelming to navigate, especially for newcomers. But fear not — we’ve got you covered. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your ferry experience in Seattle. From understanding the different routes and schedules to tips on how to avoid crowds and save money, we’ll help you plan the perfect ferry trip. Whether you’re a tourist looking to explore the city’s beautiful surroundings or a local commuter trying to avoid traffic, this guide will be your go-to resource for all things ferry-related in Seattle. So pour a cup of Seattle’s excellent coffee, sit back, relax, and let’s dive in!

Understanding Seattle’s Ferry Routes

Seattle’s ferry system is one of the largest in the world, with 10 different routes and 20 terminals serving the Puget Sound area. Each route has its own unique characteristics, from the popular Bainbridge Island route to the lesser-known Vashon Island route. Understanding the different routes is essential to planning your ferry trip.

The most popular route for tourists is the Bainbridge Island route, which offers stunning views of the city skyline and the surrounding mountains. The trip takes about 35 minutes each way, and, there are there is typically a departure about once every 45-50min during the day. The second most popular route is the Edmonds – Kingston ferry, connecting the delightful and well-trafficked Edmonds downtown with the tiny waterfront town of Kingston. For walk-on travelers, both Bainbridge Island and Kingston make very pleasant day trips — both cities are very walkable, and there are excellent restaurants, wineries, and other activities. They can also be less crowded than Seattle or Edmonds, so if you’re looking for a more quiet beach, or a waterfront bar with a patio that isn’t packed out, you may find satisfaction in Kingston or Bainbridge. Other popular routes include the Bremerton route, which connects Seattle to the Kitsap Peninsula, and the San Juan Islands route, which takes you to some of the most beautiful islands in the area.

When planning your ferry trip, be sure to check the schedules and plan ahead. Some routes have limited sailings on weekends and holidays, and some routes may have different schedules depending on the time of year. You can check schedules and purchase tickets online or at the terminal. In the summer, if you’re driving on the ferry, some routes require you to purchase a ticket online ahead of time. Most notably, during popular times, driving on Kingston requires a reservation ahead of time — a single ride ticket is valid for 90 days, and will get you into the line for the ferry. Note that you cannot reserve a ticket for a time spot on the Kingston-Edmonds ferry. Fortunately, FerryWizard can keep track of how crowded the ferry is, and can give you a much better idea of when you’ll be able to catch a boat.

Port Townsend to Coupeville (Whidbey Island) and Anacortes to the San Juan Islands do not mandate a ticket before arrival, but sailings typically sell out well ahead of time, so it’s highly recommended to plan the trip around when you can buy a ferry ticket — and, unlike the Kingston-Edmonds ferry, you can reserve a specific time.

If you’re not sure which route to take, ask the ferry employees for advice. They are always happy to help and can provide you with information on the different routes and what to expect on each one.

Ferry Schedules and Ticket Prices

Seattle’s ferry system operates 365 days a year, with varying schedules depending on the route and time of year. During peak season (May through September), the ferries operate on a more frequent schedule, with additional sailings added on weekends and holidays. During off-peak season (October through April), the schedules are more limited, with fewer sailings on weekends and holidays. Most routes operate from approximately 5am to 11pm, with more frequent sailings during busy times of day, and much less frequent sailings in the middle of the night.

Ticket prices vary depending on the route and whether you are traveling as a foot passenger or with a vehicle. On the popular Bainbridge and Kingston routes, walk-on passengers are free going east, and $9.45 going west. Typical sized vehicles are $21.40, both directions. If you’re driving an oversized vehicle (say, a camper or RV), you’ll be charged by the actual length of the vehicle. The longer routes are generally more expensive, as well — the same vehicle that hops on a route to Bainbridge for $21.40 will pay $74.50 for the trip from Anacortes to Friday Harbor!

If you plan on taking multiple ferry trips during your stay in Seattle, consider purchasing a multi-ride ticket. These tickets offer a discount on the regular fare and are valid for a certain number of trips within a specific time frame (typically 90 days). Weirdly, some routes offer up to 20-ride tickets, while some others only offer 5-ride tickets. There isn’t a consolidated standard for how may rides should be on a multi-ride ticket.

It’s important to note that the ferry system only accepts cash or credit cards for ticket purchases. If you plan on taking the ferry frequently, consider purchasing an ORCA card, which can be loaded with funds and used on the ferry as well as other forms of public transportation in the Seattle area.

Tips for Navigating the Ferry System

Navigating the ferry system in Seattle can be a bit overwhelming, especially during peak season when crowds are at their highest. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your ferry experience:

– Arrive early: Ferries can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. If you’re walking on, arriving early ensures that you have plenty of time to park, buy your ticket, and board the ferry without feeling rushed. Parking can also fill up during peak times, so you may have to park farther away. If you’re driving on, FerryWizard can help you predict crowding between ferry routes and provide a timeline for your best option.

– Avoid peak times: If you can, try to avoid traveling during peak times, which are typically on weekends and holidays. If you must travel during these times, be prepared for longer wait times and more crowded ferries.

– Bring food and drinks: While the ferries do offer food and drinks for purchase, bringing your own snacks and drinks can save you money and ensure that you have something you like to eat. The galleys on board all ferries were closed during COVID, and not all of them have re-opened yet, so even if the ship has a galley, and even if you’re sailing at a popular time, food may not be available. As a local, I’ll also insist that there are better options near the ferry terminals than on board anyways — for the same price as a mediocre hot dog on board the ferry, for example, you can get an excellent bowl of PNW chowder from Ivar’s.

– Dress in layers: The temperature on the ferry can vary depending on the weather outside and the air conditioning inside. Dressing in layers ensures that you are comfortable no matter what the temperature is like. Views are decidedly better from outside, but it will also be windy, so be prepared for a stiff breeze!

– Be respectful of others: The ferry can be a tight space, so it’s important to be respectful of others. Keep your voice down, don’t take up more space than necessary, and be aware of your surroundings.

Best Times to Travel on the Ferries

The best time to travel on the ferries in Seattle is during off-peak season (October through April). The crowds are smaller, and the schedules are more relaxed, making for a more peaceful and enjoyable ferry experience.

If you must travel during peak season, try to avoid weekends and holidays, when the crowds are at their highest. Midweek sailings are often less crowded and can be a great way to beat the crowds.

Another great time to travel on the ferries is during the evening hours. The ferries offer stunning views of the city skyline at night, and the crowds are often smaller, making for a more peaceful and enjoyable trip.

Parking Options at Ferry Terminals

Parking at the ferry terminals in Seattle can be a bit of a challenge, especially during peak season. Most terminals offer parking lots for vehicles, but these lots can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and holidays. Downtown Seattle has no dedicated ferry parking area. Edmonds only has a tiny parking area, and it’s not really designed to support ferry traffic. Kingston has a much larger lot, but it also supports the local marina and yacht club, so can fill up rapidly. It may be necessary to park as far away as the grocery store up the street. Bainbridge Island has a dedicated commuter parking lot, and the capacity is generally adequate to support commuting regulars, so if you’re traveling anytime outside of normal working hours, you’ll probably be able to find a spot.

If you’re traveling during peak season and plan on bringing a vehicle, be sure to arrive early to secure a parking spot. If the lot is full, you may need to park in a nearby lot and walk to the terminal.

Another option is to take public transportation to the ferry terminal. Many terminals are accessible by bus or light rail, making it easy to get to and from the terminal without having to worry about parking.

Food and Amenities on Board the Ferries

Seattle’s ferry system offers a variety of food and amenities for passengers. Each ferry has a cafeteria-style restaurant called a “galley” where you can purchase sandwiches, salads, and other snacks and drinks. However, all of these galleys were “temporarily” closed during COVID, and many have not re-opened yet. If you expect to be hungry on a ferry, the Local’s Recommendation is to get food before you board.

There are restrooms on all ferries. On the Seattle-Bainbridge and Edmonds-Kingston routes, these restrooms are always located at the west end of the ferry, with men’s restrooms always being southwest and women’s restroom always being northwest. There is also a restroom on the car deck.

Some ferries also offer Wi-Fi, but rollout has been challenging, so don’t expect to have excellent signal on board. Take the lack of wireless connection as a message that you’re better off taking a moment of peace and quiet to enjoy the scenery!

Safety Guidelines for Ferry Travel

Ferry travel is generally safe, but it’s important to be aware of some basic safety guidelines. Here are some tips to help ensure a safe and enjoyable ferry experience:

– Follow the crew’s instructions: The crew members on board the ferry are there to ensure everyone’s safety. Be sure to follow their instructions and ask for help if you need it.

– Wear a life jacket: Life jackets are available on board the ferry and should be worn in the event of an emergency.

– Stay away from the edges: The edges of the ferry can be slippery and dangerous. Stay away from the edges and be aware of your surroundings.

– Keep an eye on children: Children should be supervised at all times while on board the ferry.

– Don’t drink and drive: If you plan on drinking alcohol while on board the ferry, make sure you have a designated driver or plan on taking public transportation home.

Popular Destinations Accessible by Ferry

Seattle’s ferry system offers access to some of the most beautiful destinations in the Pacific Northwest. Here are some of the most popular destinations accessible by ferry:

– Bainbridge Island: This charming island is home to art galleries, wineries, and stunning views of the surrounding water.

– Orcas Island: Part of the San Juan Islands, Orcas Island is known for its natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.

– Victoria, B.C.: The capital of British Columbia is just a short ferry ride away from Seattle and offers a charming mix of British and Canadian culture.

– Vashon Island: This small island is known for its quaint downtown area and beautiful beaches.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Seattle’s ferry system is a unique and essential part of the city’s transportation infrastructure. Whether you’re a tourist looking to explore the city’s beautiful surroundings or a local commuter trying to avoid traffic, the ferry system offers a convenient and enjoyable way to get around.

By understanding the different routes and schedules, planning ahead, and following basic safety guidelines, you can make the most of your ferry experience in Seattle. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!