CHOKEPOINTS

Plan ahead: Washington State Ferries’ winter sailing schedule starts Sunday

Dec 27, 2024, 7:00 AM | Updated: 7:01 am

ferry fares tolling...

Washington State Ferries may see a toll increase. (Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)

(Photo courtesy of KIRO 7)

Beginning Sunday, December 29, the winter sailing schedule will officially start on all ten routes with the Washington State Ferries (WSF) system.

Annually, WSF switches from the busy summer schedule to the winter schedule, as ridership numbers start to decline. All WSF routes will see a decrease in daily sailings, some more than others.

Passengers whose daily routines include ferry trips may need to adjust their schedule accordingly. That means leaving earlier or choosing a different route.

Related news: It will now cost you more to ride Washington ferries

Passengers on the Anacortes/San Juan Islands route will notice an update to their winter sailing schedule, marking the first change in a decade. The updated schedule comes as community members and WSF staff address issues such as more reliable departure and arrival times for passengers. All other routes will retain their regular winter sailing schedule.

The winter schedule runs from December 29 through March 22.

Winter sailing schedules are online now, access schedules for each route via the links below:

WSF also reminded passengers to check their routes before they head out by visiting the Washington State Department of Transportation’s (WSDOT) website. WSDOT has the latest real-time updates on wait times, ferry status and delays or cancellations.

Other news: Washington State Ferries first attempt at hybrid-electric conversion faces delay

There is also an update regarding the Bremerton terminal.

Due to ongoing mechanical issues with the overhead loading platform at the Bremerton terminal, WSF said it will continue loading all non-vehicle passengers through the car deck until further notice. They are working on a repair plan but do not expect to reopen the overhead loading platform before the end of December. 

You can read more of Nate Connors’ stories here. Follow Nate on X here and the KIRO Newsradio traffic team here for more traffic updates.

Chokepoints

Ship Canal Bridge...

Nate Connors

It’s back! Revive I-5 in Seattle returns this weekend

Join the revitalization of Seattle's Ship Canal Bridge this weekend with engaging events and updates from WSDOT on preservation efforts.

22 hours ago

I-405 bothell...

Frank Sumrall

Lanes reopened after back half of double dump truck rolled over on I-405 in Bothell

The back half of a double dump truck rolled over on southbound I-405 in Bothell, causing significant delays.

1 day ago

I-5 NB Federal Way Crash...

Jason Sutich

All lanes of northbound I-5 in Federal Way back open after multi-vehicle crash

A three-vehicle crash on NB I-5 in Federal Way was blocking lanes, causing traffic delays.

2 days ago

Chains wsp snoqualmie pass...

Frank Sumrall

Chains required at Snoqualmie Pass as WSP enforces $500 fines

If you're headed to the passes, make sure to check for chain requirements. WSP is enforcing restrictions at Snoqualmie Pass, checking both cars and trucks.

2 days ago

DuPont interchange...

Chris Sullivan

Birth of an interchange continues in DuPont

2026 is going to be a good year for I-5 drivers through DuPont. The new interchange at the Stelicoom-DuPont Road will open this year, providing better access to the city and JBLM.

2 days ago

lane closures des moines fife bellevue...

Nate Connors

WSDOT keeps busy with nightly lane closures in Des Moines, Fife, Bellevue

WSDOT's late-night projects this week may delay evening plans in Des Moines, Fife, and Bellevue. Stay informed on traffic updates.

3 days ago

Plan ahead: Washington State Ferries’ winter sailing schedule starts Sunday