Puget Sound Ferry Trips

There’s a certain romance to the slow cruise of the ferry boat, cutting its way through fog and slate-gray water on Puget Sound. Western Washington’s network of ferries lead to some pretty phenomenal places, all in a way that allow you to get out of your car for a stretch of your trip and enjoy the scenery.

Others help you go car-free for your trip, an attractive alternative for many. And sometimes you’ll spot wildlife like bald eagles, whales, porpoises and seals, all while sipping coffee and playing board games or reading a book.

Among the best routes are:

1. Seattle to Vashon Island: Take a daytrip to this bucolic island, a short distance from Seattle. Visit farms, eat at farm-to-table restaurants or take a kayak trip.

2. Bellingham to San Juan Islands: Take your pick of any of these island destinations, all of which offer unique personalities and plenty of romance and scenery. The route from Bellingham threads through the archipelago.

3. Port Angeles to Victoria: Though a bit outside the boundaries of Puget Sound, this route crosses the epic Strait of Juan de Fuca. Snowy mountains fill the horizons, and wildlife is readily visible. Plus the towns of Port Angeles and Victoria are charming and offer lots of activities.