Ferries—Washington

I love ferries. Ferrying to Westman Island in Iceland opened my eyes to the convenience of using a ferry system. Not only can you visit a unique island, but you can also take a car for ease of travel. Washington offers ten ferry routes.

I began to research the Washington State Ferry system because two of Dambo’s trolls live on islands. I chose to travel from Seattle to Bainbridge Island. Then, I would leave Bainbridge, travel to Southworth, and board another ferry in the Kitsap Peninsula toward Vashon Island. Once I finished exploring Vashon, I decided to return to the mainland in Fauntleroy (West Seattle). Dedicating days to the ferries would have been a possibility if time were on my side.

For some of the routes, tickets could be purchased only when going one direction. For example, I purchased a ticket going to Bainbridge and to Vashon, but when I left Vashon for Fountleroy, I didn’t need a ticket. From what I gathered, the round trip cost is calculated and paid when going one direction as this cuts down on employees needed. It also speeds up some wait times.

Summer congestion can slow down ferry transportation, but March ferrying left me elated. I would drive up to the pay station and easily board at my desired time. Each time you pay with credit cards, they pass the cost to the consumer. Initially, I tried to purchase tickets online, but no significant benefit occurred. It did not guarantee a spot on a specific ferry, so I decided to pay as I went.

Ferries can be fun. Observation decks allow you to see the surroundings. Because my plans didn’t include visiting downtown Seattle, I appreciated seeing it from the water instead. During my vacation, my niece called and FaceTimed me. It usually occurred while on a ferry, so I can attest to great Wi-Fi. (She wants to travel to Prince Edward Island with me this summer to visit Anne of Green Gables sites).

Finally, my favorite ferry fun included puzzles. Throughout the ferry, puzzles were left on tables. Passengers could sit down and work a puzzle to pass the time. I found an open puzzle and had at it. Because I completed it, I took it apart to let others have a chance to work on it.

One final ferry note…if you’re hungry, food is available. Bathrooms also make the trip easier. And, if you want to learn about your route, ample signage provides great information.

Just prior to arrival, the person on the intercom asks you to return to your car. Within minutes, they direct you off the ferry, and your adventure begins.