Taking the Seattle to Bainbridge Island ferry is one of the most direct and scenic ways to cross Puget Sound. This guide gives you practical details – terminals, schedules, fares, parking, accessibility and nearby attractions – so your journey goes smoothly without surprises.
A brief history and overview of the Seattle to Bainbridge Island ferry route
The Seattle–Bainbridge route is part of the Washington State Ferries (WSF) system, the largest ferry operator in the U.S. The connection links downtown Seattle at Colman Dock (Pier 52) with Bainbridge Island’s terminal at 270 Olympic Drive SE in Winslow, Bainbridge. The crossing has long served both commuters and visitors, offering an alternative to driving around the Sound and a pleasant waterborne passage.
The crossing time is approximately 35 minutes in normal conditions. The route is especially busy during commuter hours, evenings and weekends. Walk-on passengers and vehicles use the same route; fares differ depending on whether you bring a car or travel on foot. Because of its popularity, the ferry can fill up with vehicles, especially in peak hours, so planning ahead is recommended.
Ferry terminals: where they are and how to reach them
Seattle terminal (Colman Dock / Pier 52):
The Seattle terminal is located at 801 Alaskan Way, Pier 52, between Marion and Columbia Streets. During recent terminal renovations, pedestrian access includes a temporary pedestrian bridge from First Avenue and Marion to the elevated connector and ticketing zones. Traffic congestion is common along the waterfront, so allow extra time. Exit I-5 to the Edgar Martinez Drive / Alaskan Way routes for terminal access.
Bainbridge Island terminal:
The Bainbridge terminal is at 270 Olympic Drive SE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110. The terminal building is near the vehicle holding lots and passenger waiting areas. From Winslow (the main town on Bainbridge) it is a short drive or public transit ride away.
Departure times and journey time
- On weekdays, sailings from Seattle to Bainbridge run from 5:30 am through late evening. The exact departure times as of September 2025 are: 5:30, 6:10, 7:05, 7:55, 8:45, 9:35, 10:40, 11:25, 12:25, 1:10, 2:05, 3:00, 3:50, 4:45, 5:45, 6:30, 7:30, 8:15, 9:20, 10:05, 10:50, 12:15, 1:35.
Weekends and holidays have a somewhat reduced schedule, typically starting ~6:10 am and sailing through the evening. - From Bainbridge to Seattle, sailings begin early (4:45 am) and continue through evening (e.g. 12.55am and later).
- The crossing time is about 35 minutes under normal conditions.
Because service schedules can change seasonally or for maintenance, always check the WSF schedule by route or by date before travel.
Ticket prices and how to pay
- Walk-on passengers (age 19–64): US $10.25 one way. Seniors (65+) and disability fare: US $5.10. Youth (18 and under) travel free. (Note: the ferry only charges walk-on fares on one direction—walk-ons from Bainbridge to Seattle are free.)
- Bicycle surcharge (age 19+): US $1.00.
- Vehicle & driver fares: Vehicles under 14 ft: $18.20; under 22 ft: $23.20. Larger vehicles have higher tiered fares (e.g. up to $182+ for very large vehicles). Senior/disabled drivers receive reduced vehicle & driver fares in appropriate categories.
- Multi-ride and monthly passes: 10-ride commuter cards, monthly passes, and vehicle multi-ride cards are available. These are non-refundable and valid for 90 days (for passenger tickets).
- Tickets can be purchased at staffed booths, automated kiosks, or online via the Wave2Go system. However, purchasing a ticket does not guarantee a vehicle spot—loading is first-come, first-served.
Parking and accessibility
Parking at Bainbridge terminal:
There are three large lots within two blocks of the terminal. The lot directly outside the terminal (U-Park System) charges, for example: $11.00 for all day (0–10 hrs), $15.00 for 24 hours, $7.00 after 7 pm, and $5.00 for motorcycles. There are 11 ADA spaces in the lot. If ADA-set spaces are filled, vehicles with valid placards may park in other empty spaces (except reserved spaces). Motorcycles may be loaded preferentially ahead of cars depending on loads.
Seattle terminal parking:
Parking near Colman Dock is limited. Use public garages or street parking further inland, then walk or connect via public transit to the terminal. Allow extra time for delays on the waterfront.
Accessibility:
Both terminals and vessels provide ADA access. Loading ramps and accessible pathways are available. Passengers with disabilities should arrive early and consult staff. Bicycles are allowed but space is limited—especially during peak times.
Booking tips and useful advice
- Arrive early: As vehicles are loaded first-come, first-served, aim to be in line at least 20–30 minutes before sailing time in busy periods.
- Pre-purchase tickets: Buying online through Wave2Go saves time at toll booths. But remember, it doesn’t reserve you a spot on the ferry.
- Check for schedule changes: WSF occasionally adjusts sailings for maintenance or vessel substitution; check the schedule for your specific date.
- Avoid peak vehicle times: Commuter rush hours (mornings and late afternoons) often fill vehicle capacity—if possible, travel outside those windows for more flexibility.
- Be flexible if walking on: Walk-on passengers generally have more flexibility than vehicle users during high demand times.
What to do on Bainbridge Island and combined attractions
- Once you arrive in Winslow, Bainbridge’s town center, explore local shops, cafés, galleries and the waterfront path.
- Rent a bike or walk to the Bloedel Reserve, a much-loved garden and forest preserve nearby.
- Take Kitsap Transit bus service or taxis from the terminal to scenic parts of the island, such as hiking trails, museums or island beaches.
- On the Seattle side, you can plan the ferry as part of a waterfront walking itinerary: Pike Place Market, the Seattle Aquarium, the Olympic Sculpture Park and the Pioneer Square district are all within reach.
If your schedule allows, riding the ferry in daylight provides pleasant views across Puget Sound. On clear days you may catch glimpses of Mount Rainier, Elliott Bay and the city skyline.
FAQ
| What is the last ferry from Bainbridge to Seattle? | Service typically runs until after midnight, depending on day and season. Always check the schedule for your travel date. |
| Can you reserve a spot for vehicles? | No. The Seattle to Bainbridge route does not allow vehicle reservations. Vehicle loading is first-come, first-served. |
| Does a walk-on passenger pay on both directions? | No. Walk-on (foot) passengers are charged only when boarding from Seattle to Bainbridge; walk-ons from Bainbridge to Seattle travel free. |
| Do I need exact change at the kiosks? | Kiosks and booths accept credit/debit, ORCA card, cash (depending on booth), or online ticket redemption. Advance purchase helps avoid handling delays. |
| Is the ferry wheelchair accessible? | Yes. Terminals and vessels are ADA compliant, with ramps, accessible pathways, and staff support available. |
| What if I miss the ferry? | You will have to wait for the next scheduled sailing. During busy times, later sailings may already be full for vehicles, so arriving early is safer. |
| Can I bring a bicycle? | Yes, bicycles are allowed with a surcharge (usually US $1.00 for adult riders). But bike space can be limited during peak times, so arrive early. |
