Washington State Ferries to the San Juans

For most visitors, the Washington State Ferries run from Anacortes is the way into the San Juan Islands, and the ride is an attraction in its own right. The terminal sits on Fidalgo Island, around ninety minutes by road north of Seattle, and the ferries leave regularly for Lopez, Shaw, Orcas and San Juan Islands, calling at the landings in a loop that threads between islands. The vessels are large, comfortable boats with passenger decks, galleys serving coffee and snacks, and open observation decks where you can watch the shores slide by. On a clear day the views are superb: forested islands, rocky headlands, snow-capped mountains on the horizon and the chance of seeing seals, porpoises, orcas, eagles and seabirds. The trip to Friday Harbor takes about an hour and a half or so, depending on the route and stops, and the passage is part of the experience, with the landscape changing at each turn. You can travel as a foot passenger, with a bicycle or with a vehicle. Foot passengers and cyclists generally find the ferries easy and affordable, and it is a convenient way to visit without a car, since the islands have shuttles, taxis, rentals and cycling options. Vehicle travelers face a different situation, because summer demand is heavy. Reservations for vehicles are strongly recommended and sell out on weekends and holidays, while standby traffic can wait for hours. Check the current schedule and reservation rules on the ferry system's website before planning your trip.

Planning matters. Most fares are collected on the westbound journey from Anacortes, and travel between islands and back to the mainland follows the schedule posted for each route. Arrive early if you hold a reservation, as late arrivals may lose their space. Walk-on travelers should arrive in time to buy tickets and board, and cyclists should be prepared to line up with their bikes.

Schedules change by season, with more sailings in summer, so check carefully. Weather can occasionally cause delays or cancellations, particularly in winter storms, so allow flexibility for time-sensitive plans like flights or whale watching reservations.

Enjoy the ride. Pick up coffee in the galley, find a seat on the observation deck and bring a layer, because wind on the water is cool. Binoculars and a field guide for sea birds will make the trip more interesting, and a camera is essential. Pay attention to the announcements at each landing so you do not miss your stop.

Many travelers use the ferry to hop between islands, for example spending a day on Lopez, a night on Orcas and a day on San Juan, with the vehicle left at home if possible. Bicycles are welcomed on board and make an excellent way to see Lopez.