Washington State Ferries
Who doesn’t love a scenic ferry ride? Seattle, Washington offers many ferries leaving from the city itself as well as nearby surrounding cities, taking travelers to the Olympic Peninsula, West Settle, and various islands in Puget Sound including the San Juan Islands. Travelers also have the option of taking more than one ferry to get to destinations further away, including British Columbia, Canada. Some of the most popular and breathtaking ferry rides in the Greater Seattle Area include routes from Seattle to Bainbridge Island, Anacortes to Lopez Island, Fauntleroy to Vashon Island, Edmonds to Kingston, and Mukilteo to Whidbey Island.
While ferry riders are welcome to show up to the terminal for a ride, reservations are also available, assuring one’s spot on the ferry. Reservations can easily and conveniently be made and changed online or over the phone, noting that walkers and bikers may not make reservations. Making a reservation is beneficial to ensure that the traveler gets the most out of their excursion without having to wait for an open spot which many take more than 
an hour. Washington State Ferry tickets may also be purchased beforehand online if travelers choose to do so. Ferry costs are determined by how many riders are in the car, the age and status of the rider(s), and the size of the car being traveled in.
If riders do not have a car on their vacation or simply choose to travel by foot or bike, some ferry rides in the Greater Seattle Area are free for pedestrians. Depending on the route being taken, travel time will vary between thirty minutes and well over an hour. Every ferry offers both inside and outside seating as well as covered outside spaces. While many locals are avid ferry riders, these barges make a great option for tourists. Ferries not only serve as a way of transportation but for an opportunity for visitors to explore the Greater Seattle Area. During a ferry ride to and from Seattle, riders will experience vast skyline views of the Washington coast, Olympic Peninsula, and nearby islands.
Several ferry destinations conveniently have many activities for travelers to do right around the terminal, making this is a wonderful option for those who want to save money on fares and travel by foot. Some of these activities include nearby hiking and biking trails, shops, restaurants, pubs, and museums. For those who do have a form of transportation, there are options of beaches, parks, galleries, farms, shipyards, and small surrounding towns to explore too. Considering the options for ferry routes and excursions, taking a Washington State Ferry may offer a half day, full day, or multiple day adventure depending on one’s preference.
As well as transportation, the ride itself is something to look forward to. Travelers should keep their eyes out for marine wildlife including seals and possibly even whales. Traveling by and riding on Washington State Ferries is an exciting and fun way to spend time on the Puget Sound in an affordable way.