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Seattle Ferry Service Day Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Post Cruise City Tour

Quick Details

• Hour Glass Duration: 3 hours
• Clock Start Time: 9 a.m.
• Cruise Ship Pick-Up Options: Tour begins where your cruise ends, at Pier 66 and Pier 91
• Tag Luggage: Take advantage of the free Port Valet Service
• Bus Drop Off Options: Your choice of SeaTac Airport or your hotel
• Plane Airport transfer included: Drop-off at SEATAC by 1:45pm for guests with flights departing 3:45pm or later | For guests adding on Space Needle tix and the Market, Drop-off at SEATAC by 3pm

Explore the Best of Seattle After Your Cruise

Step off the cruise ship and hop on board our award-winning Show Me Seattle Tour, and experience the best the city has to offer. From the perfect selfie viewpoint to bustling downtown streets and quirky neighborhoods, this tour of Seattle offers a convenient and fun way to discover what makes Seattle such a beautiful and unique city.  Drop-off at the airport or your hotel included.

NEW FOR 2023!

Staying in the Emerald City after your cruise? Or got time to kill before your flight? We’ll take you to visit the our 2 most iconic attractions after the tour – just choose to  ‘add on’ Space Needle Tickets and shopping at Pike Place Market  for the ultimate day in Seattle.  After the Market we’ll whisk you away to the airport, or your hotel.

Important Notes Regarding Luggage:

Please remember to tip your driver/guide an additional minimum of $3 per bag for baggage handling.

Or, send your checked bags to the airport and enjoy your tour luggage free by taking advantage of the no-charge Port Valet service offered by Port of Seattle, check to see if your cruise line and airline participate here:  PORT VALET

• Chevron down 1. Downtown Area

The tour begins in Seattle’s bustling downtown core, highlighting the Pike Place Market, Seattle Art Museum, Shopping District, and the world’s first Starbucks.

• Chevron down 2. Pioneer Square & Stadium District

Seattle’s original downtown is now a 35-square-block historic district filled with turn-of-the-century Romanesque architecture, art galleries, and trendy restaurants, all of which border the sports stadiums for the Seahawks, Sounders, and Mariners.

• Chevron down 3. International District & Waterfront

Home to Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, Korean, Cambodian, and Hmong communities, this neighborhood continues to play a role in Seattle’s multicultural identity. Seattle’s waterfront includes the aquarium, Ferris wheel, classic seafood restaurants, funky souvenir shops, historic piers, and ferry and water taxi terminals.

• Chevron down 4. Seattle Center & Queen Anne View Point

The Seattle Center is a 72-acre urban park and is the site of the 1962 World’s Fair. It’s the home of the Space Needle, Paul Allen’s Experience Music Project, Dale Chihuly’s Garden and Glass exhibition, and the Pacific Science Center.

Kerry Park on Queen Anne Hill provides a dramatic panoramic photo opportunity of Seattle’s skyline. You also view the spectacular architecture and aesthetic in one of the city’s more exclusive, old-money neighborhoods.

• Chevron down 5. Fremont Neighborhood & Magnolia Bluff

Fremont neighborhood, famous for its outdoor art and nude bicyclists in the Summer Solstice parade, is also a microcosm of the challenges Seattle faces as it grapples with growth. This once-quirky bohemian artist colony is now transforming into a high-tech powerhouse with offices for Google, Tableau, and Adobe while remaining true to its artsy roots.

The views just keep coming! Along with our stop in Fremont, we visit the rocky peaks and grassy knolls of Magnolia Bluff. This northwest Seattle neighborhood sits atop a peninsula looking out upon Elliott Bay. Watch ferries and boats float across the water, with West Seattle, Bainbridge Island, and even majestic Mt. Rainier in the distance on a clear day.

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Home » The Complete Guide to Washington State Ferry Routes 

The Complete Guide to Washington State Ferry Routes 

Travel by ferry for a memorable adventure on the state’s scenic waterways.

Water is one of Washington’s defining features. With more than 3,000 miles of coastline, around 8,000 lakes, countless rivers, and multiple islands, ferries serve as an important (and scenic) way to travel. Most of Washington State’s ferries ply the pristine waters of the Salish Sea, where you can gaze at snowcapped mountains and sculpted shorelines along with the possibility of seeing whales, seabirds, and other wildlife. 

Most of these Salish Sea routes are operated by Washington State Ferries , which boasts the nation’s largest ferry system and serves 19 different ports. Elsewhere in the state, you’ll find small routes that cross the Columbia River and a ferry that cruises the length of Washington’s deepest freshwater body of water, Lake Chelan.

Here’s what to know about Washington’s primary ferry routes.

Guide to Washington Ferry Routes

From booking and payment to the scenery and the vibe onboard, the ferry experience can vary greatly depending on the route. Some ferry rides take several hours, while others last fewer than five minutes. Vehicles are permitted on some routes, while others are passenger-only. To ensure a smooth and safe experience, refer to the guidelines and latest schedules on the official website of each ferry service provider.

Know Before You Go

Here are a few general tips for traveling Washington ferry routes.

Ferry Reservations

You can make online vehicle reservations on a few ferry routes, including the Anacortes–San Juan Islands and Port Townsend–Coupeville crossings with Washington State Ferries. Reservations are also encouraged for the Victoria, BC–Port Angeles with Black Ball Ferry Line, and the Alaska–Bellingham ferries. Be sure to secure a reservation in advance during the busy summer months, although a limited number of standby spaces are usually available. Some of the popular passenger-only ferry crossings—including Lake Chelan, Port Townsend–Friday Harbor, and Victoria, BC–Seattle—also accept reservations.

Travel Tip: A vehicle reservation on Washington State Ferries is not a ticket. You can purchase tickets online or when you arrive at the terminal or toll booth. Plan to be in line at least 20 minutes in advance of your sailing time for most routes. If you don’t show up, you forfeit the reservation fee. Vehicle reservations are one-way. Make sure to secure reservations for your return journey as well. 

Ferry Costs 

The cost of and process for paying ferry fares varies depending on the route. Typically, you can pay for ferry tickets with credit cards either online or at the terminal. Note that for many Washington State Ferries’ routes, the fare is collected only for travel in one direction (for example, only when traveling westbound in the San Juans). 

During peak season, you can save money and boost your odds of securing a space on the ferry by traveling without a vehicle. For example, the fare in high season for travel from Anacortes to Friday Harbor with a standard (under 14-foot-long) vehicle and one passenger is around $80, compared to about $32 for two walk-on passengers. Vehicle fares for shorter crossings (e.g., up to 30 minutes) are considerably lower, usually ranging from around $16 to $20 round-trip. In some towns with walkable villages near the ferry, it’s easy to get by without a car. These include Bremerton, Friday Harbor on San Juan Island, and Winslow on Bainbridge Island. 

Peak Travel Times

Peak travel for Washington ferries is generally Memorial Day through Labor Day, and weekends and holiday periods the rest of the year. Many routes add or reduce the number of boats, and thereby the number of available crossings, seasonally. During busy periods, try to book reservations when this option is available. If arriving without a reservation, expect a wait. On the Washington State Ferries terminal page , you can view real-time route maps, estimated stand-by availability, and ferry terminal cams.

Washington State Ferries Salish Sea Routes

With its iconic fleet of white-and-green ships, Washington State Ferries—operated by the Washington State Department of Transportation—has the most extensive service network in the country. Its 10 routes connect both large cities and small island hamlets throughout the Salish Sea, from Tacoma and Vashon Island in southern Puget Sound to the San Juan Islands and the Kitsap and Olympic Peninsulas farther north. All Washington State Ferries transport vehicles as well as passengers. 

Between Anacortes and the San Juan Islands

Trip Duration: About an hour from Anacortes to Orcas Island or Friday Harbor; about 20 to 45 minutes for inter-island crossings | View Route

One of the most scenic ferry routes in the country, the leisurely crossing from Anacortes to this storied archipelago offers abundant opportunities to watch for whales and birdlife. Washington State Ferries serves the four most populous of the San Juan Islands : Orcas, San Juan Island, Lopez, and Shaw. Some routes are direct between Anacortes and the largest two islands, Orcas and San Juan, but most stop at multiple islands. 

Reservations are highly advised for vehicles (necessary for travel both to and from the islands). A portion of online reservations are released in three tiers: two months before the start of the season, two weeks before the date of sailing, and two days before the date of sailing. For inter-island ferry crossings, walk-on passengers ride free in either direction, while vehicles are charged a fee only for westbound crossings (for example, Lopez to Orcas Island). Inter-island ferries accept cars and passengers on a first-come basis. Note that Washington State Ferries has suspended service between San Juan Island and Sidney, BC until at least 2030.

While you wait: Anacortes Ferry Terminal is a 10-minute drive from the town’s lively commercial center. At the terminal itself you’ll find one casual dining option. On your way to the terminal, consider picking up food from one of the popular takeout spots downtown, such as the Harbin Dumplings or Dockside Dogs . There are numerous restaurants, shops, and attractions within walking distance of the Friday Harbor terminal on San Juan Island, including Salty Fox Coffee for a quick snack. On the other islands, the terminals are in quieter areas, but near the ferry on Orcas Island, the Orcas Village Store has a deli and groceries and the Orcas Hotel Cafe has good pub fare. On Lopez, the nearest restaurants to the ferry are in the main village, about a 10-minute drive south.

Between Port Townsend and Coupeville

Trip Duration: 35 minutes | View Route

Connecting the charming Victorian city of Port Townsend near scenic Fort Casey State Park on Whidbey Island , this is a convenient way to get between the Olympic Peninsula and the northern shore of mainland Washington. Without taking the ferry, for example, the drive from Anacortes to Port Townsend takes about three hours longer. It’s a very popular route, and vehicle reservations can be made two months before the season start date.

While you wait: By the terminal in Coupeville, Callen’s is great for hearty diner-style fare, and it’s just a 10-minute drive north to the enchanting village of Coupeville, with its many shops and eateries. You’ll find lots of great dining options within a few minutes’ walk of the Port Townsend terminal, including Quench Waterfront Kitchen .

Between Mukilteo and Clinton

Trip Duration: 20 minutes | View Route

This quick hop connects the northern Seattle suburb of Mukilteo with tiny Clinton on the southern tip of Whidbey Island . Although you can drive to Whidbey Island by crossing the Deception Pass Bridge, this route takes about 90 minutes longer coming from metro Seattle. You can also take this ferry in combination with the one between Port Townsend and Coupeville to get between Seattle and the Olympic Peninsula.

While you wait: There are a couple of cool aviation-related attractions— Boeing Future of Flight and Flying Heritage & Combat Armor Museum , near the Mukilteo ferry landing, which is just steps from beloved Ivar’s Mukilteo Landing seafood restaurant. Near the terminal in Clinton, the Shrimp Shack at Cozy’s is lovely for a bite to eat. 

Between Edmonds and Kingston

Trip Duration: 30 minutes | View Route

If you’re traveling to the upper Kitsap Peninsula , including to Poulsbo , take this short trip from Edmonds , an attractive coastal town just north of Seattle. This is another great way to get from northern metro Seattle to the Olympic Peninsula, which is connected to the Kitsap Peninsula via the Hood Canal Floating Bridge near Port Gamble.

While you wait: Edmonds has a gorgeous, lively waterfront near the terminal, with beaches, parks, the excellent Cascadia Art Museum , and terrific eateries like Demitris Woodstone Taverna for Mediterranean fare and Shore Pine Coffee & Gelato for lighter bites. On the Kitsap Peninsula side, enjoy drinks and pub grub at the Kingston Ale House, and check out superb exhibits at the tribally operated Suquamish Museum .

Between Seattle and Bainbridge Island

Charming Bainbridge Island lies just 7 miles across Elliott Bay from Seattle’s newly redeveloped waterfront . The bustling main village, Winslow, is steps from the ferry, and you can get to many other attractions on the island—including several wineries and the stunning Bloedel Reserve —via Bus 390. Bainbridge Island is also connected by bridge to the upper Kitsap Peninsula, but the ferry shaves at least an hour off making the trip entirely by land.

While you wait: Colman Dock in Seattle is a short walk from Pike Place Market and downtown hotels. The dock is steps from Ivar’s Acres of Clams along the waterfront and downtown’s Top Pot Doughnuts . On Bainbridge, it’s a lovely stroll from the terminal to HiLife poke bar and Streamliner Diner , as well as the engaging Bainbridge Island Museum of Art .

Between Seattle and Bremerton

Trip Duration: 1 hour | View Route

Ferries to the small but lively city of Bremerton leave from downtown Seattle’s Colman Dock. Bremerton is in the center of the Kitsap Peninsula.

While you wait: There’s enough to keep you busy for the better part of the day within walking distance of the ferry terminal in Bremerton. Savor seafood overlooking the water at Anthony’s at Sinclair Inlet , and explore Washington’s vibrant maritime and military history at the Puget Sound Navy Museum and touring the decks of the historic USS Turner Joy battleship museum.

Between Fauntleroy and Vashon (and optionally to Southworth)

Trip Duration: 20 minutes from Fauntleroy to Vashon, 30 minutes from Fauntleroy to Southworth | View Route

Located between Seattle and Tacoma, Vashon Island is known for its unhurried pace and natural beauty. Ferries depart from southwestern Seattle’s Fauntleroy terminal, a 20-minute drive from downtown Seattle. Some ferries travel only between Fauntleroy and Vashon Island, while others continue another 10 minutes to the central Kitsap Peninsula town of Southworth. Additional routes in the area include direct service between Fauntleroy and Southworth and direct service  between Vashon Island and Southworth .

While you wait: Fauntleroy is in a mostly residential neighborhood on Seattle’s southwest side, but there are some appealing diversions nearby, including the trails of 135-acre Lincoln Park , the well-crafted American comfort food at Endolyne Joe’s , and the overstuffed burritos at El Camion food truck. Next to the ferry dock on the north end of Vashon Island, Wild Mermaid serves tasty breakfast and lunch fare.

Between Point Defiance and Tahlequah

Trip Duration: 15 minutes | View Route

This quick crossing connects the northern tip of Tacoma , by Point Defiance Park, with Tahlequah, at the southern tip of Vashon Island. For a scenic way to get from Seattle to Tacoma that avoids busy interstate highways, take the ferry from Fauntleroy to northern Vashon Island and explore the island before continuing to Tacoma via the Tahlequah ferry. It’s about a 40-minute drive or ride on Bus 118 between Vashon Island’s two ferry terminals.

While you wait: In Tacoma, you’ll find myriad attractions by the terminal throughout leafy 760-acre Point Defiance Park , and it’s a short and pretty walk over Wilson Way Pedestrian Bridge to the colorful shops and eateries—including WildFin American Grill and Ice Cream Social —at the mixed-use Point Ruston waterfront . 

Kitsap Fast Ferries and Foot Ferry Routes

Based in Bremerton, Kitsap Transit operates three fast ferry routes that connect the Kitsap Peninsula with Seattle’s Colman Dock, as well as two foot-ferry routes between Bremerton and Port Orchard (duration 12 minutes) and Annapolis (duration 5 minutes). All of these routes are passenger-only. Primarily used by commuters, the fast ferries provide a quicker crossing than the conventional car ferries operated by Washington State Ferries, cutting the travel time from Bremerton to Seattle in half, and connecting Kingston and Southworth directly to Seattle’s downtown.

Port Orchard has a walkable waterfront that’s home to the colorful Port Orchard Public Market and popular eateries like Peninsula BevCo and The Dock Bar & Eatery . Smaller Annapolis is mostly residential, but you can have an espresso drink, a beer, or a snack at Whiskey Gulch CoffeePub or a more substantial meal at Damn Fine Pizza .

Other Washington Ferry Routes

Several ferries make the trip to other parts of Washington, including some smaller and less-populous islands in the Salish Sea, spectacular Chelan Lake in the eastern Cascades, and a handful of rural areas along the Columbia River.

Between Downtown Seattle and West Seattle

Trip Duration: 10–15 minutes | View Route

Two boats provide a quick and picturesque water taxi ride between Colman Dock and inviting West Seattle, famous for its gorgeous Alki Beach waterfront and myriad independent shops and restaurants. Although you can drive between these two neighborhoods, the water taxi is great if you’re visiting Seattle without a car.

While you wait: By the water taxi pier in West Seattle, dine on delicious Hawaiian Korean–fusion fare at Marination Ma Kai , with its sweeping water and skyline views.

Between Downtown Seattle and Vashon Island

Trip Duration: 22 minutes | View Route

Seattle’s other water taxi route from downtown’s Colman Dock makes the trip to northern Vashon Island, which you can then easily explore using Buses 118 or 119, or by bike.

Between Steilacoom and Anderson Island

Pierce County Ferry provides vehicle service from the small town of Steilacoom, southwest of Tacoma, to laid-back Anderson Island , in southern Puget Sound (along with residential Ketron Island). You’ll find a couple of B&Bs and several vacation rentals on this relaxing island that’s laced with hiking trails, and there’s dining at picturesque Riviera Lakeshore restaurant.

While you wait: A few blocks from the dock in Steilacoom, Topside Bar & Grill serves pub fare, and Steilacoom Tribal Cultural Center contains exhibits about this Indigenous community.

Everett’s Jetty Island Ferry

Trip Duration: 3 minutes | View Route

Take the quick passenger ferry from the Port of Everett to the alluring dunes and beaches of man-made Jetty Island . Service is offered seasonally, Wednesday–Sunday, from early July to early September, and reservations are required. There’s no camping or accommodations, nor is there running water or concessions, so bring whatever you need to enjoy your day of swimming and sunning.

While you wait: Great spots for a bite to eat near the ferry dock include Bluewater Organic Distilling and Scuttlebutt Brewing Restaurant and Pub .

Between Anacortes and Guemes Island

Trip Duration: 5 minutes | View Route

This vehicle ferry makes the just over half-mile trip between this small island and downtown Anacortes. With 600 residents, Guemes is primarily residential but does have some vacation rentals and Guemes Island Resort , a family- and pet-friendly collection of cabins and yurts from the 1940s.

While you wait: The terminal in downtown Anacortes is a short walk from many restaurants.

Between Bellingham and Lummi Island

Another relaxing Salish Sea island with breathtaking natural scenery, Lummi has around 850 year-round residents, along with plenty of vacation rentals. This nearly 10-square-mile island is reached by a quick ride from a northwest Bellingham peninsula that’s home to the Lummi Nation. You’ll find great hiking and a few lovely stretches of coastline on Lummi Island, along with awesome views of Orcas Island.

While you wait: Near Lummi Island’s ferry landing, eat in the leafy garden of the cheerful Beach Store Cafe , or order fish and chips and clam chowder at the cute Legoe Bay Reefnetter food truck. On the mainland, the nearest restaurants are a 20-minute drive to downtown Bellingham.

Between Port Townsend and Friday Harbor, San Juan Island

Trip Duration: 3 to 3½ hours | View Route

From late April through late September, Puget Sound Express offers a whale-watching cruise that departs Port Townsend in the morning, stops in Friday Harbor for a couple of hours for lunch and sightseeing, and returns to Port Townsend in the late afternoon. Most who go on this adventure, which includes narration by a naturalist, book a round-trip experience , but you can also use this tour as a ferry service by booking a one-way trip —and there’s a good chance you’ll spy orca, humpback, gray, and minke whales along with other wildlife. Note that boats depart from slightly different areas of each town than the Washington State Ferry docks; in Port Townsend, the dock is at Point Hudson Marina, and in Friday Harbor, boats tie up at Spring Street Landing.

Between Chelan and Stehekin

Trip Duration: 1½ to 4 hours, depending on the boat | View Route

Offering the longest ferry ride in the state since 1889, the Lake Chelan Boat Co. has three different boats that chug nearly 55 miles along narrow and fjord-like Lake Chelan . This crystal-clear, nearly 1,500-foot-deep body of water snakes through evergreen-dotted shores. Other than flying, these Instagram-worthy boat rides are the only way to get to the tiny (population 100) village of Stehekin , which anchors Lake Chelan National Recreation Area, at the remote southeastern edge of North Cascades National Park . 

Boats depart each morning from Chelan at the southeast tip of the lake. The fastest, the 40-passenger Lady Liberty , makes the trip in as little as 70 minutes. The Lady Express takes about 2½ hours, while the 285-passenger Lady of the Lake takes four hours and can stop at any point along the lakeshore, including trailheads. You can book a same-day trip and treat this as a sightseeing excursion, perhaps taking one boat to Stehekin and a different one back. Or overnight in Stehekin at North Cascades Lodge , in a cabin rental, or at a campground. There’s great hiking and fishing here, and in winter, Stehekin draws cross-country skiing and snowshoeing enthusiasts. 

While you wait: In Chelan, grab breakfast at downtown’s Lake Chelan Artisan Bakery , a five-minute drive from the boat landing. By Stehekin’s dock, North Cascades Lodge has a rustically inviting restaurant and general store. And Stehekin Shuttle Bus can take you a couple of miles farther north to beloved Stehekin Pastry Company , 

Columbia River Ferries, Eastern Washington

Trip Duration: 10 minutes

In Eastern Washington, you’ll find two free, vehicle ferry routes crossing the Columbia River. The Keller Ferry connects both sides of Highway 21 between Keller and Wilbur, upriver from the Grand Coulee Dam . This ferry can shave time off a drive from Republic toward Davenport or Spokane. From Highway 25, a ferry between Inchelium and Gifford operated by the Confederated Tribes of the Colville Reservation provides access to the reservation’s small town of Inchelium.

Washington Ferry Routes from Other States and Provinces

Ferries provide a memorable way to visit Washington from Alaska, Oregon, and Vancouver Island in British Columbia. 

Between Victoria, BC, and Port Angeles

Trip Duration: 90 minutes | View Route

Black Ball Ferry Line’s sleek and swift MV Coho offers one of the most dramatic ways to get to Washington from Vancouver Island. Vehicle ferries depart from the scenic Inner Harbour of BC’s capital city, Victoria, from two to four times daily, arriving in the welcoming small city of Port Angeles , a perfect gateway for exploring Olympic National Park . On this relaxing cruise, enjoy dazzling vistas of the Olympic Range and, to the east, Whidbey Island and the Cascades.

While you wait: You’ll find dozens of restaurants, shops, and attractions near Black Ball’s terminal in Victoria. In Port Angeles, the terminal is steps from great restaurants, including Downriggers on the Water for seafood and Kokopelli Grill for Southwestern-inspired fare. You can also walk around Hollywood Beach and the Port Angeles City Pier, and check out the touch tanks and exhibits at the small but excellent Feiro Marine Life Center .

Between Westport, Oregon, and Cathlamet

Trip Duration: 12 minutes | View Route

Offering the only Columbia River crossing between the Astoria-Megler Bridge (near Long Beach Peninsula) and Longview, the Oscar B car ferry provides a memorable way to enter southwestern Washington from Oregon. This ferry on the Lower Columbia, which began back in 1925, is cash only.

While you wait: From the terminal on the Washington side it’s just a 7-minute drive to the village of Cathlamet , home to the convivial craft brewery River Mile 38 and a Pizza Mill . 

Between Alaska and Bellingham

Trip Duration: About 38 hours from Ketchikan | View Route

Other than driving for a few days along the infamous Alaska-Canadian Highway, the only way to travel with a car from Alaska to the Lower 48 states is by ferry on the Alaska Marine Highway System. This long but incredibly picturesque journey can take anywhere from three to several days, depending on where you start in Alaska. From the nearest large port, Ketchikan, the ferry chugs down through western Canada’s Inside Passage and ends in Bellingham ’s historic Fairhaven district. 

While you wait: It’s a 10-minute walk from the ferry terminal to the dozens of shops, galleries, and eateries in Bellingham’s Fairhaven neighborhood, among them the Black Cat Cafe and—inside famed Village Books —the cheerful Colophon Cafe .

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6 Best Ferry Rides Seattle In 2023

Want to know the best ferry rides in Seattle? Spoiled for choice? Don’t worry – read here to find out the best!

If you’re planning a trip to Seattle – or you’re already there – you might be wondering about fun and cool things to do!

Well, why not take a ferry ride somewhere?

It might not be something you’ve thought of yet, and you could end up on a great day out!

Seattle is packed with great ferry rides, so it can be hard to know which one (or which ones!) to choose – but don’t worry about being spoiled for choice!

I’ve had a look and found some of the best ferry rides and day trips available in Seattle – so you don’t have to waste your time scouring the internet!

So, if you’re interested in finding out what the best Seattle ferries are available, read on!

6 Best Ferry Rides In Seattle

1.seattle to bainbridge island.

Departing from Pier 52, also known as Colman Dock, and travelling over the Puget Sound with a beautiful view of the skyline of Seattle at your rear, this trip will take you just 35 minutes to reach Bainbridge Island, Washington – the second largest city in Kitsap County.

The downtown area, Winslow, is the location of the ferry terminal here, and in fact was the original name of the entire city of Bainbridge Island – after the shipbuilder WInslow Hall.

Bainbridge Island is a beautiful city – although with a population of only 23,000 on the entire island, it’s far smaller than Seattle!

It’s a beautiful place, with several gardens and museums to visit – and of course, some beautiful natural scenery!

You can also do some interesting activities on Bainbridge Island, such as birdwatching, sea kayaking, scuba diving, and hiking – making it a great place for a mini adventure!

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2.Fauntleroy To Vashon Island

Just south of West Seattle – itself separated from the rest of the city by the Duwamish River – lies the ferry terminal at Fauntleroy.

From here, you can ride a ferry to Vashon Island, which is only accessible by ferry. Vashon Island is a popular destination for cyclists, with some great riding hills.

However, they can be a tough call for some riders! Most people prefer, therefore, to experience Vashon Island by car.

You could get on the ferry on foot, but many parts of the island would just take too long to access without a car or bike!

Vashon Island is a great getaway for those looking to spend some time in a quieter, more calming place – or those looking to do some serious cycling!

Other activities are of course available here, including kayaking and scuba diving – in fact, the entire Puget Sound area is famed for having some of the best scuba diving waters in the world!

3.Anacortes To San Juan Islands

North of Seattle lies the city of Anacortes, itself a beautiful place, and a great city for boating activities, with an award winning marina.

It also has its own ferry terminus, which will let you take a trip over to the San Juan islands!

From Anacortes, you can take ferries directly to four of the islands – Shaw, Orcas, Lopez, and San Juan Island.

These are the four main islands, and are also connected to each other by Washington State Ferries. These islands are amazingly popular for boating, especially for small boats.

Many towns here are great places for boaters to visit, and indeed many of the nicest spots around these islands can only be reached by boat.

In fact, although the ferries only go to 4 islands here – the four biggest – there are actually 176 islands in the area that are large enough to be named!

4.Seattle To Bremerton

Located on the Kitsap Peninsula, Bremerton is to the southwest of Bainbridge Island, and is a great place to visit that’s not too far from the city of Seattle – meaning that it’s easily possible to have a great day trip here and still make it back for the evening!

Once in the city itself, there’s plenty to see and do – those with military interests will particularly like the Puget Sound Navy Museum!

Similarly, there’s also the USS Turner Joy, a Destroyer from the era of the Vietnam War.

Those looking for a more natural pursuit in their time in and around Bremerton will enjoy the Illahee State Park and the Green Mountain State Forest, two of the most beautiful natural environments in the area.

5.Edmonds To Kingston

Another beautiful little town across the water from Seattle, Kingston is another great place to visit in the Puget Sound region.

It’s pretty easy to get to from the Seattle area, as Washington State Ferries runs a service from West Edmonds over to Kingston.

If you like, you can walk on this ferry – there are buses and taxis available to take you around Kingston once you get there!

If you’re a birdwatcher, anywhere in Kitsap Country is a great place to visit – and of course, Kingston is no exception!

There are hundreds of species that one could see in the area – in fact, there’s a good list here !

6.Seattle To Victoria, British Columbia

If you’re looking to go a little further afar, why not go to the next country over?

It’s possible to get a ferry all the way up to Vancouver in British Columbia, Canada, in just around 3 hours!

Riding the Victoria Clipper, which completes a round trip between Seattle and Vancouver every day for much of the year, you can be in the beautiful city of Vancouver in just 2 hours and 45 minutes.

You’ll need your passport for this one, of course, and it’s one of the longer waterway journeys on the list – but a trip to Canada is well worth it!

Vancouver is an amazing city, and what’s more, it’s the gateway to the rest of British Columbia – one of the most spectacular areas of natural beauty in the world – and the size of many countries on its own!

As you can see, there are many great places that are easy to get to with just a short ferry ride from Seattle, or the surrounding area.

So if you’re looking for something new and interesting to do in the area – or just want to get away form the city for a bit – then why not try out one of these great journeys?

I hope you’ll have a great time!

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Hi there. My name is Aisha. Founder and owner of Women Wandering Beyond.

Learning how to adventure and explore through the world transformed my life and helped me become a happier person.

I want to help you do the same. My female adventure travel site is dedicated to helping women travel more, step outside their comfort zone and experience wonders of the world beyond their wildest dreams!

Ladies, we are going on an adventure!

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Seattle – Victoria Ferry

FRS Clipper offers the only direct fast ferry service between Seattle and Victoria, BC—the Victoria Clipper.

The Victoria Clipper ferry operates year-round service, round-trip 1 time per day. The fast ferry features three main classes of service including Economy (lower deck), Vista (upper deck) and Comfort Class (upper deck) each with an upgrade option within each class. Comfort Class includes leather seating in a private spacious class cabin on the upper deck, panoramic views along with complimentary snacks, coffee and tea.

Victoria Clipper V Onboard Menu | Seating Classes and Chart | FAQs | ID & Travel Requirements | Clipper Fares | Current Special Offers

Save on Hotel Packages

We've done the hard work for you and vetted a wide array of Victoria's top hotels! You'll receive a special discount on your Victoria Clipper fast ferry when adding an overnight hotel stay and an even greater discount for a 2-night stay!

Visit The Butchart Gardens

Immerse yourself in more than 300,000 blooms at world-renowned The Butchart Gardens with a hotel package deal or day trip to Victoria from downtown Seattle on our high-speed Victoria Clipper V fast ferry!

Ferry Schedule

Mar 28 – may 16, may 17 – sep 28, double sailings: may, double sailings: jun - sep, sep 29 – oct 13, oct 14 – nov 4, nov 5 – nov 26*, nov 27 2024 – jan 12, 2025*, double sailings: dec, double sailings: dec 2024, travel fares.

Schedule and fares subject to change. Rates are $10 USD higher per person/segment of travel for Fri/Sat departures from Seattle and Sun departures from Victoria.

Schedule and fares subject to change. Rates $10 USD higher per person/segment of travel for Fri/Sat departures from Seattle and Sun departures from Victoria.

Additional Fare Notes

ADVANCE Fare – Round-Trip only: Advanced purchase fares must be purchased a minimum of 2 days prior to travel date, non-refundable.

STANDARD Fares – Round-Trip only :  Standard fares are fully refundable for cancellations received 2 or more days prior to travel, non-refundable within 48 hours of travel date.

Hotel Package :  Non-refundable within 4 days of travel date.

Adult : Rates are $10.00 higher per segment of travel for Friday & Saturday departures from Seattle, and Sunday departures from Victoria. Additional fees apply to class upgrades. Child (1-11 yrs old) : Children pay 50% of adult fare.

All fares include applicable taxes. A security fee and fuel surcharge will be added to all Seattle/Victoria fares & packages. Non-cancelable; date, voyage restrictions may apply. Actual fares may vary based on booking and travel dates. All rates in US Dollars. Rates are based on economy class seating. Schedule is subject to change.

Group travel discounts available for 10+ people, traveling together. Please contact us to inquire.

Fare Classes

Economy Class Includes:

• Main cabin seating
• Table/group seating in select areas
• Onboard locally sourced food, spirits, and beverages available for purchase
• Onboard gift and duty-free shop

Vista Class Includes:

• Spacious leather seating with panoramic views

Comfort Class Includes:

• Comfort class priority check-in and boarding*
• Exclusive forward and top deck seating
• Panoramic views
• Luxury leather seats with individual tables
• Complimentary welcome drink
• Unlimited premium coffee, tea, soft drinks, and snacks
• Free checked luggage**

Travel Information and ID Requirements

Anytime you’re traveling between Canada and the United States, you’ll have to pass through Customs and Border Protection. That means no matter how you’re traveling from Seattle to Victoria or Victoria to Seattle, you’ll need a Passport, Passport Card, Enhanced Driver License or an Enhanced ID Card (EDL/ID). Learn more about ID and Travel Requirements.

Directions & Parking

Seattle clipper terminal.

2701 Alaskan Way, Pier 69 Seattle, WA 98121 (206) 448-5000

Nearby parking

Bell street pier garage.

Entrances on: 9 Wall St & 2323 Elliott Ave

Garage hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM

Cost: $10.00 per calendar day for Clipper passengers. Must obtain parking validation from the Victoria Clipper terminal. Garage has a height restriction of 6’6″

Victoria Terminal

Victoria ferry terminal.

Belleville Street Victoria, BC V8v 1W9 Canada (250) 382-8100

Belleville Street Terminal

Daily Parking

Hotel Grand Pacific Garage

Daily & overnight parking

463 Belleville St, Victoria, BC V8V 1X3, Canada

Customers should not use the meters located in the parking garage, but check-in at the hotel’s front desk to obtain a parking ticket either prior to parking or immediately after parking their vehicle in the garage.

2701 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA, United States

2701 Alaskan Way Pier 69, Seattle, WA 98121

254 Belleville Street, Victoria, BC, Canada

"Being able to take the Clipper from downtown Victoria to downtown Seattle is a perfect way to travel."

- Mistuhree, Duncan, CA TripAdvisor

"I loved the speed, comfort and convenience of how to get to Victoria. It drops you within walking distance of great hotels and all the Inner Harbour activities."

- Doug M., Seattle, WA TripAdvisor

"No TSA hassles. No long lines at the US-Canada border. Our trip was smooth and scenic."

- Tom_Fiala, Orlando, FL TripAdvisor

Traveler Specials

Get a great deal on Clipper travel with our best available rates, military and first responder appreciation fares, kids and senior discounts.

Victoria Overnight Packages & Day Trips

A short and scenic ride through the Salish Sea, Victoria is the perfect day trip destination from Seattle. Save on your Clipper cruise when you book an overnight hotel package!

Victoria Overnight Packages

Victoria Day Trips

Seattle Overnight Packages and Day Trips

Get the best Seattle travel deals with a package that bundles transportation, Seattle hotel accommodations and activities to best suit your travel needs!

Seattle Overnight Packages

Seattle Day Trips

Choose an Option to Begin Planning Your Trip

For guests traveling internationally, please review our ID and Requirements carefully before booking travel.

• Includes one-way or round trip travel via the Clipper ferry.
• Routes available between Seattle and Victoria
• Includes travel to any of our destinations with activities or hotel stay or both.
• Enjoy the convenience of booking the entire trip all at once.

Need help planning your trip? Call our Clipper Pacific Northwest travel experts at 800-888-2535 between 9am-6pm PDT (Mon-Fri), 9am-3pm PDT (Sat-Sun).

Plan Your Trip

Children's ages

Clipper defines a child as 11 years and younger, but hotels and tours may have different child ages. Please enter the ages for all children 18 and under. Infants under 1 (<1) are free on the Clipper, but are not provided a seat.

Agent Login

Travel Advisors with existing accounts can log in to create new bookings. If you are a Travel Advisor and would like to view/edit an existing booking, please visit the Agent Dashboard.

For your guests traveling to Canada, please read our ID and Requirements page carefully before booking travel. Thank you!

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These Three National Parks Are Within Driving Distance Of Seattle

Enjoy a day trip from Seattle to one of these beautiful national parks.

• Explore natural beauty close to Seattle in National Parks, like Mount Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades, for a day trip full of adventures.
• Discover endless scenic trails, waterfalls, alpine lakes, and wildlife in these parks, all under two and a half hours' drive from the city.
• Enjoy memorable experiences, stunning views, and quiet getaways in Washington National Parks, with activities like hiking, wildlife spotting, and stargazing.

Recognized for many of its top places to see , including the Space Needle and the Seattle Aquarium, Seattle is one of America's most eclectic cities and is an incredible blend of a bustling metropolis and breathtaking natural surroundings. It is also famous for being the cultural capital of the Pacific Northwest and exploring its markets, music scene, and coffee culture guarantees memorable experiences.

Washington has three national parks ; the Olympic, North Cascades, and the iconic Mount Rainier, each offering unique features that avid adventurers will definitely find impressive. Interestingly, vacationers can explore all these natural wonders on day trips from Seattle.

Mount Rainier National Park From Seattle

This washington national park is 89.6 miles away from seattle, taking just under two and a half hours of driving time.

Seattle is home to plenty of fun experiences, but one thing not to miss during a trip to the Pacific Northwest is visiting Mount Rainier National Park , which is one of the amazing day trips from Seattle . It is only 89.6 miles and takes less than two and a half hours to drive to.

Actually, on a clear day, residents can always see Mount Rainier from a distance. The park offers spectacular natural scenery, old-growth forests, beautiful alpine lakes, breathtaking vistas, scenic rivers, and impressive waterfalls.

The mountain itself, which is Washington's highest, most glaciated peak, makes it worth a day trip from Seattle. There are several things to do in Mount Rainier National Park , including the Skyline Trail, the park's most scenic route .

• Stops along the way: Christine Falls, Narada Falls, and Mount Rainier National Park

Renting a car in Seattle and driving to Mount Rainier is the most fun way of enjoying this day trip.

Olympic National Park From Seattle

This washington national park is 111 miles, taking about two and a half hours to drive to.

One of the most beautiful national parks in Washington State , Olympic National Park has many admirable features, including snow-capped mountains, a rainforest, and pristine Pacific beaches. It is home to plenty of scenic hikes and cheap camping spots.

The park is also one of the best national parks for wildlife viewing , and creatures such as elk, bears, cougars, and raccoons are common sights.

Apart from hiking the beautiful trails and wildlife spotting, the park is a haven for boating, fishing, and backpacking. Stargazing enthusiasts will also find plenty of opportunities to discover Olympic's spectacular night sky.

The fastest way to visit Olympic National Park from Seattle is by boarding the Bainbridge Ferry, which will reduce the travel time by one hour. The ferry is a perfect option for tourists looking to explore the northeast part of this iconic Washington National Park, including Port Townsend, which also hosts the most underrated state park in the state .

• Cost of a ferry ride: $28.60 for a standard car; $8.50 per person

Travelers who'd rather drive than board a ferry can enjoy a scenic road trip to the park, which only takes about two and a half hours of driving time, and winds through forests and some of the quirkiest small towns in Washington. On I-5, you can either drive through Tacoma to Port Angeles, which is where the park's main visitor center is located, or drive through Olympia to the park.

A day trip from Seattle to Olympic National Park is full of fun adventures, and shouldn't be missed on a Washington summer bucket list.

• Scenic stops along the way: Tacoma, Olympia, Port Angeles, Forks, and Lake Quinault.

This Scenic Olympic National Park Trail Takes Under An Hour To Hike

North cascades national park from seattle, this washington park is only 107 miles away from seattle, taking under two hours.

North Cascades , which is among the parks in Washington that offer scenic mountain views , is one of the best national park day trips you can visit from Seattle.

The North Cascades are a portion of the Cascade Range and are dubbed "the American Alps," thanks to the park's impressive features, like the snow-capped mountain peaks, valleys, alpine lakes, and rivers. It is home to hundreds of glaciers and boasts innumerable waterfalls, which is where it got its name.

With more than 300 glaciers, North Cascades National Park's glaciers are more than all U.S. national parks outside Alaska.

It only takes under two hours of driving time to get to the North Cascades from Seattle. Another reason to enjoy a day trip from Seattle to the North Cascades is the fact it costs $0 to enter the park, and since it's one of the least-visited national parks in the U.S. , it is rarely crowded, which means vacationers will enjoy a quieter national park getaway.

To get to the park from the city, one follows route I-5 North to Burlington, then drive on Highway 20 East, which winds through Skagit Valley. One can also get there through a good number of tour companies, which offer trips from Seattle.

• Scenic stops along the way: Diablo Lake Vista Point, Thunder Creek Trail, Gorge Creek Overlook, and the Trail of the Cedars Nature Walk.

Washington's national parks are among the most beautiful in the U.S., and all feature amazing adventures, from hiking trails to scenic campsites to impressive beaches. All these parks are situated within two and a half hours from Seattle, which also comes with impressive attractions, including the Space Needle and Pike's Place Market.

If you stick around Seattle for a bit longer, then plan a three-day itinerary for exploring Mountain Rainier, Olympic, and North Cascades National Parks.

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MYNORTHWEST NEWS

Travel alert: Washington ferry prices have gone up amid wave of riders

May 2, 2024, 1:10 PM | Updated: 2:30 pm

A Washington State ferry pulls up to the dock on March 29, 2020 in Edmonds, Washington. (Photo: Karen Ducey, Getty Images)

(Photo: Karen Ducey, Getty Images)

BY JULIA DALLAS

MyNorthwest Content Editor

Planning a local getaway? Visiting family who live on the islands? Your Washington ferry ride could cost you more as prices keep climbing.

On Tuesday, prices for roundtrips went up nearly $10. A roundtrip from Edmonds to Kingston now costs a couple with a standard car: $54.35. The price is the same for a roundtrip between Bremerton and Seattle.

Inslee on Washington ferries : ‘We’re going as fast as humanly possible’ getting ferry boats in the water

Washington State Ferries (WSF) attributed the price increase to keeping up with the influx of spring and summer travelers, according to The Everett Herald . Riders can also expect longer wait times, around an hour or two, as the warmer weather entices people to take trips.

However, according to The Everett Herald, the surcharge was not added to multi-ride or passenger rates. An adult walk-on ticket costs $9.85 and a senior ticket costs $4.90. Children 18 and under are free.

For those heading from Mukilteo to Clinton who don’t want to pay the extra $3 for a one-way trip, The Everett Herald recommended taking the scenic route and driving through Deception Pass.

To plan the cost of your trip, visit WSDOT’s fare calculator . To pay for your trip, WSF recommends getting an ORCA card. ORCA cards can be bought online on ORCA’s website , or in person at various transit locations . However, VISA, MasterCard, American Express and Discover cards are also accepted alongside cash, traveler’s checks and business account charge cards.

According to the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), most ferries are loaded on a first-come, first-serve basis. However, travelers are highly recommended to reserve their car spot for the Port Townsend/Coupeville and Anacortes/San Juan Island routes . Walk-ons and smaller vehicles like motorcycles cannot be reserved.

Travelers can also see how many car spaces are available, in real-time, at each terminal via WSDOT’s live tracker found on the department’s website . They can also keep up with ferry wait times on WSDOT’s website .

Other news : Surging home prices prolong Seattle’s ‘bidding wars’ era

While prices will go back down after the summer, an overall 4.25% fare increase will start on Oct. 1, according to the Washington State Transportation Commission  (WSTC).

This will bring prices up by 50 cents to $1. To see a more detailed list of how fares on each ferry will be affected, visit this PDF from the WSTC .

Julia Dallas is a content editor at MyNorthwest. You can read her stories  here . Follow Julia on X, formerly known as Twitter,  here  and email her  here .

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Washington ferry fares increase May 1 for peak season

The state ferry system’s annual peak-season surcharge goes into effect Wednesday.

The surcharge will increase fares for vehicles on all routes by 25%, except for vehicles traveling from Anacortes to Lopez, Shaw and Orcas islands, as well as Friday Harbor on San Juan Island. Those fares will increase by 35%.

For example, a one-way trip on the Seattle/Bainbridge Island route will see an increase of about $4 to $22.25 for a standard-sized car and driver, according to Washington State Ferries.

The surcharge applies to single vehicles crossing Puget Sound but does not apply to passenger or multi-ride fares. Senior passengers ride for half price, and youth ages 18 and under ride free on all routes.

The peak-season pricing will continue through September, covering the busiest months of the year for ferry travel.

Vehicle fares are available online at  wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/fares .

Fares vary by route, depending on location, sailing time and other factors.

For Port Townsend/Coupeville and Anacortes/San Juan Islands routes, travelers can reserve their spot on the ferry for the summer season through Washington State Ferries’ website.

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