Thing to do
Kerry Park Viewpoint
A small park on the south slope of Queen Anne Hill, Kerry Park has one of the best-known views of Seattle, with the Space Needle, downtown…
Seattle to Bainbridge Island Ferry
Washington State Ferries' Seattle to Bainbridge Island route crosses Puget Sound from Colman Dock in about 35 minutes, with views of the city skyline and mountains.
At a glance
- Type
- Ferry ride
- Area
- Waterfront, Seattle, United States
- Official site
- wsdot.wa.gov
Good to know
- Walk-on passengers
- Views of skyline and Puget Sound
- Year-round service
Why we recommend it
Taking the ferry from downtown Seattle to Bainbridge Island is one of the simplest and most enjoyable things to do in the city. The route is run by Washington State Ferries, which has operated it since 1951, and it links Colman Dock on the Seattle waterfront with the terminal at Winslow on Bainbridge Island. The crossing is about 8.6 miles and takes roughly 30 to 35 minutes.
The trip is popular because of the views. As the ferry pulls away from Colman Dock, the downtown skyline spreads out behind you, and on clear days the mountains around Puget Sound come into view. The route is served by large Jumbo Mark II class ferries, which carry both vehicles and foot passengers, and in 2015 it carried more than six million passengers.
Most visitors travel as foot passengers, which avoids queues for cars and lets you walk straight off into Winslow. Check the current Washington State Ferries timetable and fares on its website before you travel, as schedules change by season and day of the week. Arrive at the terminal early during busy periods, especially on summer weekends and around commuter rush hours.
The Bainbridge terminal is at Winslow, so you arrive right in the island's main town. Many visitors simply ride over, have lunch and catch a return sailing, which makes an easy half-day trip.
The ride suits everyone, from families with children to couples and solo travellers on a budget, and it is a good way to see the city from the water without booking a tour. Bring a warm layer for the outside deck, as it can be cold and windy on the water even in summer. Sunset sailings are especially popular for photographs. The route has a long history. Before the state took over, steamboats served the crossing, and the run was once called the Seattle to Winslow ferry, until Winslow annexed the rest of the island and the route took the island's name.
Colman Dock is on the downtown waterfront, within walking distance of Pioneer Square and the main downtown hotels. Ivar's Acres of Clams on Pier 54 and the Seattle Great Wheel on Pier 57 are along the same waterfront, so you can combine the ferry with a waterfront lunch.
Seattle to Bainbridge Island Ferry FAQs
How long does the ferry to Bainbridge Island take?
The crossing takes roughly 30 to 35 minutes.
Where does the ferry leave from?
From Colman Dock on the downtown Seattle waterfront.
Who runs the ferry?
Washington State Ferries, which has operated the route since 1951.
Can you travel as a foot passenger?
Yes. Most visitors walk on, which avoids car queues.
Where can you check times and fares?
On the Washington State Ferries website, as schedules change by season and day.
Where does the ferry arrive on Bainbridge Island?
At the terminal in Winslow, the island's main town.
What can you see on the crossing?
The Seattle skyline, Puget Sound and, on clear days, the surrounding mountains.
What should you bring?
A warm layer for the outside deck, as it can be windy on the water.