Welcome to the Emerald City, where stunning landscapes meet bustling city life. Seattle is a city that’s loved by locals and visitors alike, with its iconic skyline, beautiful parks, and waterfront views. But there’s one thing that sets Seattle apart from other cities, and that’s its ferry system. Traveling by ferry is not just a mode of transportation; it’s an experience in itself. However, as a local, you know that navigating Seattle’s ferry schedules can be a bit of a challenge. That’s why we’re here to help you with our guide to Seattle ferry schedules. From tips and tricks for a smooth ride to insider knowledge on the best times to travel, we’ve got you covered. So, grab your coffee, hop on board, and get ready to explore the beauty of the Puget Sound by ferry.
Tips for Navigating the Ferry System
Navigating the Seattle ferry system can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you’re a first-time rider. There are certainly plenty of confusing parts of the ferry system! But with a few tips and tricks, you can make your experience a smooth one.
If you’re walking on a ferry, it’s important to leave yourself some extra time when you arrive at the terminal. Parking can be unpredictable, and it may take you longer to walk to the terminal than you’d expected. As mentioned earlier, peak travel times can be hectic, and you don’t want to miss your ferry. Arriving early will give you plenty of time to park, purchase your tickets, and board the ferry. If you’re driving on the ferry, check FerryWizard for the latest predictions of when the next boat or two will fill up — and again, be sure to show up early.
When purchasing your tickets, it’s important to note that the fare varies depending on the route and size of your vehicle. Motorcycles are cheaper than small cars (<14ft) which are cheaper than big cars (<22ft) which are cheaper than commercial vehicles. You can purchase your tickets at the terminal or online. During busy times, it’s a good idea to purchase them in advance to avoid long lines at the terminal. Some routes — most notably Kingston to Edmonds — require that vehicles have tickets before they’re allowed in line.
Once you’re on the ferry, be sure to follow the crew’s instructions and pay attention to safety announcements. The crew is there to ensure your safety and the safety of everyone on board, so be sure to listen to their instructions.
Best Times to Travel on the Ferry
If you want to avoid the crowds and have a more peaceful ferry ride, it’s best to travel during off-peak times. The early morning and late evening tend to be less busy, and weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends. You can always check FerryWizard – History for detailed information about when a particular sailing filled up to get a better idea how to plan your route.
If you’re traveling during the summer months, be prepared for longer wait times and more crowded ferries. The summer months are the busiest time for the ferry system, so plan accordingly.
How to Purchase Ferry Tickets
There are a few ways to purchase ferry tickets in Seattle. You can purchase tickets at the terminal or online. If you choose to purchase your tickets online, you’ll need to print them out or have them available on your smartphone to show to the ticket taker. The ticket system will email you a QR code which can be easily scanned; this is generally faster than paying at the terminal, so if you know ahead of time what your plan is, you can save time by buying tickets online.
Ferry Amenities and Services
Seattle ferries offer a variety of amenities and services to make your ride more comfortable. Most ferries have restrooms, vending machines, and a galley where you can purchase snacks and drinks. However, since COVID, the Ferry System has had trouble staffing the galleys, so don’t count on the galley being operational for your ride.
If you’re traveling with children, the ferries do not have designated play areas to keep them entertained during the ride, nor are boats in general considered “child safe,” so you’ll have to make sure your little ones don’t climb over railings or get lost. The ferries are pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry friend along for the ride.
Parking Options for Ferry Riders
If you’re driving to the ferry terminal, there are several parking options available. Most terminals have paid parking lots, and some offer free parking on a first-come, first-served basis. Parking in Bainbridge is generally straightforward, as is parking in Kingston. Downtown Bremerton, surprisingly, is almost as bad as downtown Seattle. Edmonds has no large surface lot, but there can often be street parking found within a few blocks.
If you’re traveling during peak travel times, it’s a good idea to arrive early to ensure you get a spot in the parking lot. Some terminals also have overflow parking lots that you can use if the main lot is full.
Bringing a Car on the Ferry – What to Know
If you’re bringing a car on the ferry, there are a few things you need to know. First, you’ll need to purchase a separate ticket for your car, and the fare will depend on the size of your vehicle. Very small cars (under 14ft) are $16.80, while normal cars (under 22ft) are $21.40. Passengers on Kingston-Edmonds and Seattle-Bainbridge are free heading east, but pay full fares ($9.45 for adults!) heading west.
When boarding the ferry, follow the instructions of the crew and park your car in the designated area. The crew may guide you to park very close to the car in front of you to ensure that everyone fits on the boat. Please stay in your car until the adjacent lanes have finished loading — nothing ruins a good ferry ride like getting hit by someone trying to get on the ferry.
It’s important to note that some terminals have limited space for vehicles, so it’s best to arrive early if you’re bringing a car on the ferry. That’s why FerryWizard tracks current and past loading — to take some of the guesswork out of figuring out when you need to show up.
Exploring the Destinations Accessible by Seattle Ferries
One of the best things about traveling by ferry in Seattle is the destinations you can explore. Bainbridge Island, for example, is a quaint town with a variety of shops, restaurants, and galleries. The town also has several parks and beaches where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the island. I highly recommend all of the Bainbridge wineries, and there’s nothing like getting takeout and heading for the beach.
Bremerton, on the other hand, is a historic Navy town with several museums and attractions. The USS Turner Joy Museum Ship is located in Bremerton and is a popular attraction for visitors.
There are also several other destinations accessible by Seattle ferries, including Vashon Island, Kingston, and Port Townsend.
Insider Tips for a Smooth and Enjoyable Ferry Ride
To make your ferry ride more enjoyable, here are a few insider tips:
– Bring a book or magazine to read during the ride
– Bring a sweater or jacket, as the ferry can get chilly
– Don’t forget your camera, as the views from the ferry can be stunning
– If you’re traveling during the summer, bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
– Be sure to check the ferry schedule before heading to the terminal
Alternative Transportation Options in Seattle
While the ferry system is a great way to explore Seattle and its surroundings, there are also other transportation options available. Seattle has a great public transportation system, including buses and light rail. You can also rent a bike or scooter to explore the city on your own.
Conclusion
Seattle’s ferry system is a unique and exciting way to explore the beauty of the city and its surroundings. With a bit of planning and preparation, you can have a smooth and enjoyable ferry ride. From understanding the ferry schedules to purchasing tickets and exploring the destinations, we hope this guide has provided you with the information you need to make the most of your ferry experience in Seattle.
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