Embarking on a Bainbridge Island Adventure: Your Ferry Guide
Planning a trip to Bainbridge Island is a fantastic idea! It's a beautiful gem just a short ferry ride from Seattle, offering charming towns, stunning natural beauty, and a relaxed pace of life. Navigating your first ferry trip might seem a little daunting, but don't worry, this guide will walk you through every step. We'll cover everything from where to catch the ferry to what to expect once you're on board and arrive at your destination.
1. Where to Catch the Ferry from Seattle
The primary ferry terminal for trips to Bainbridge Island is located in downtown Seattle. It's officially known as the Colman Dock, and you can't miss it. It's situated right on the waterfront, easily accessible by public transportation, walking, or if you're driving.
- Address: 801 Alaskan Way, Seattle, WA 98104
- Getting There:
- Public Transit: Numerous Seattle bus routes stop near Colman Dock. The Link Light Rail also has a station nearby (Pioneer Square Station or Westlake Station, then a short walk).
- Walking: If you're already in the downtown Seattle area, it's a pleasant walk to the waterfront.
- Driving: There are parking garages in the vicinity, but be aware that parking can be expensive and fills up quickly, especially during peak times. It's often more convenient to take public transit or a rideshare.
2. Understanding Ferry Fares and Payment
Washington State Ferries operates the route to Bainbridge Island. The fare structure is straightforward, and it's important to note that you only pay for a vehicle and its driver when traveling from Seattle to Bainbridge Island. Passengers traveling as walk-ons pay a separate, lower fare. You do not pay to return from Bainbridge Island to Seattle as a walk-on passenger.
- Payment Methods:
- Walk-on Passengers: You can pay with cash or credit/debit cards at the terminal ticket booth.
- Vehicle Passengers: The driver pays the vehicle and driver fare at the ticket booth before boarding. Passengers in the vehicle do not pay an individual fare.
- Fare Information: Fares vary slightly depending on the season and whether you're traveling as a senior, youth, or adult. It's always best to check the Washington State Ferries website for the most up-to-date fare information before your trip.
3. The Boarding Process: Walk-on vs. Vehicle
The boarding process differs depending on whether you're walking on or driving your vehicle.
For Walk-on Passengers:
- Arrive at Colman Dock: Head to the pedestrian entrance of the ferry terminal.
- Purchase Ticket: Buy your ticket at the ticket booth.
- Wait in the Designated Area: Follow the signs for the Bainbridge Island ferry and wait in the designated passenger waiting area.
- Board the Ferry: When the ferry is ready for boarding, staff will direct you onto the vessel.
For Vehicle Passengers:
- Follow the Signs: As you approach Colman Dock, follow the signs for the Bainbridge Island ferry lane.
- Purchase Ticket: Have your payment ready to purchase your vehicle and driver fare at the ticket booth.
- Drive onto the Ferry: Once your ticket is validated, you will be directed by ferry staff to drive your vehicle onto the car deck of the ferry.
- Park Your Vehicle: Follow the instructions of the crew to park your car. You'll typically be guided to a specific lane.
- Secure Your Vehicle: Engage your parking brake and turn off your engine.
- Exit Your Vehicle: You and your passengers can then exit your vehicle and head up to the passenger decks.
4. Life Aboard the Ferry
The ferry ride itself is an experience! The journey typically takes about 35 minutes, offering spectacular views of the Seattle skyline, Puget Sound, and the surrounding mountains.
- Passenger Areas: Inside the ferry, you'll find comfortable seating areas, restrooms, and often a small café or snack bar where you can purchase coffee, snacks, and beverages.
- Outside Decks: For the best views, head to the open-air decks. Be sure to dress in layers, as it can be breezy and cooler on the water, even on a sunny day.
- What to Do: Relax, read a book, take photos, or simply enjoy the breathtaking scenery. It's a great opportunity to unwind and appreciate the beauty of the Pacific Northwest.
5. Arriving at Bainbridge Island
The ferry terminal on Bainbridge Island is located in Winslow, the island's main town. From the terminal, you'll have easy access to shops, restaurants, and points of interest.
- Disembarking:
- Walk-on Passengers: Simply follow the flow of passengers off the ferry.
- Vehicle Passengers: When it's time to disembark, staff will signal for vehicles to start their engines. Follow the directions of the crew to drive off the ferry.
- Exploring Winslow: Once off the ferry, you can easily walk to the shops, art galleries, and eateries in Winslow. The ferry terminal is centrally located.
- Transportation on the Island: If you need to go beyond Winslow, there are options:
- Public Bus: Kitsap Transit operates buses on Bainbridge Island, with routes that can take you to various parts of the island.
- Taxis and Rideshares: These are available but may be less frequent than in a major city.
- Bicycle Rental: Some visitors choose to rent bicycles to explore the island at their own pace.
- Driving Your Vehicle: If you brought your car on the ferry, you have the most flexibility for exploring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How often do ferries run to Bainbridge Island?
Ferries to Bainbridge Island run quite frequently, typically every hour during most of the day. However, schedules can vary, especially on weekends, holidays, and during different seasons. It's always a good idea to check the official Washington State Ferries schedule online before your trip to confirm departure times.
Why is there no ferry fare for walk-on passengers returning to Seattle?
The fare structure is designed to be more efficient and encourage local travel. Washington State Ferries charges for vehicles and their drivers on the "mainland to island" route, which is considered the primary direction of commerce and tourism. The return trip from Bainbridge Island to Seattle as a walk-on is essentially free to streamline operations and cater to island residents and day-trippers.
What is the best time of year to visit Bainbridge Island by ferry?
Bainbridge Island is beautiful year-round. Spring and summer (May through September) offer the warmest weather and lush greenery, perfect for outdoor exploration. Fall brings beautiful autumn colors, and winter offers a more serene and cozy experience. The ferry ride is scenic in any season.
Can I bring my bicycle on the ferry?
Absolutely! Ferries are very bike-friendly. There are designated areas for bicycles on the car deck, and cyclists usually have priority boarding. There is typically no extra charge for bringing a bicycle. It's a great way to explore Bainbridge Island once you arrive.
