Taking the Friday Harbor ferry to San Juan Island is one of those rare moments where the journey is just as exciting as the destination. The ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor isn’t just a means of transportation; it’s part of the San Juan magic.
Whether you’re driving on with your car, walking aboard with just a backpack, or shuttling in from Sea-Tac Airport, this guide covers everything you need to know from ferry reservations to ticketing, schedule details, vehicle rules, and how to actually board the boat.
How to Take the Ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor
Your ferry journey starts at the Anacortes Ferry Terminal (2100 Ferry Terminal Rd, Anacortes, WA 98221). It’s the main launching point for Washington State Ferries headed to the San Juan Islands, including Friday Harbor, Orcas Island, Shaw Island, and Lopez Island. The route is well-organized and super scenic.
The Friday Harbor Ferry Terminal is located right in the heart of town, making it incredibly easy to explore the island on foot or grab a rental bike once you arrive.
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Step-by-Step: How to Take the Friday Harbor Ferry
Whether you’re driving your car, hopping aboard as a pedestrian, or traveling with your pup, you’ll follow a few key steps:
Step 1: Reserve Your Vehicle Spot (If Needed)
If you’re bringing a car, RV, or motorcycle, book a vehicle reservation through the WSF Vehicle Reservation System. Reservations are free (you pay for tickets separately) and released in waves (2 months, 2 weeks, 2 days before sailing).
Step 2: Purchase Your Ferry Ticket
Buy your ticket online via Wave2Go or at the terminal on the day of travel. You’ll only pay once as roundtrip fare is included in your Anacortes-to-Friday Harbor ticket.
Step 3: Arrive Early at the Anacortes Terminal
- Vehicles: Arrive 45–60 minutes before your scheduled departure
- Walk-ons: Aim to arrive 10–15 minutes before sailing
- Head to 2100 Ferry Terminal Rd, Anacortes, WA. There’s a parking lot, restrooms, and a snack kiosk on site. It is unimpressive. Best to bring your own snacks or buy them on the ferry (but beware long lines).
Step 4: Check In at the Tollbooth or Terminal
- Drivers: Show your reservation at the tollbooth and follow directions into your assigned lane
- Walk-ons: Go inside the terminal to scan your ticket or buy one
- IMPORTANT: Hang on to your receipt for the return.
Step 5: Board the Ferry
- Vehicles are loaded in groups; follow the staff instructions
- Pedestrians walk on board via the passenger ramp. There’s seating inside and outside
You can leave your car during the ride. Just be sure to return when prompted.
Some cars struggle with the vibration of the boat and the car alarm is triggered. Pay attention to the onboard announcements so your car alarm isn’t going off for hours.
Step 6: Enjoy the Ride
Sit back and enjoy views of the San Juans, the Salish Sea, and maybe even a pod of whales. There are bathrooms, food options, and plenty of seating on board. No Wi-Fi, so download anything you need in advance.
Step 7: Arrive in Friday Harbor
Once docked, follow unloading procedures. Walk-ons exit via the main ramp, while vehicles disembark by deck order. From here, you’re just steps away from shops, tours, and everything Friday Harbor has to offer.
Check out our list of the 15 things on San Juan Island you can’t miss.
Read the official WSDOT first-time ferry rider guide.
When to Purchase Ferry Tickets
If you’re bringing a car, vehicle reservations are essential, especially during spring, summer, and holiday weekends. Without one, you could be stuck waiting for hours or not get on at all.
Reservations are free to make (you only pay if you no-show), but the system releases spots in phases, which is where it gets a little tricky:
- 2 months ahead at 10 a.m. Pacific time: 30% of standard vehicle spaces + 90% of large/tall vehicle spaces released
- 2 weeks ahead at 7 a.m. Pacific time: another 30% of standard spots
- 2 days ahead at 7 a.m. Pacific time: the final 30%
- Day-of: 10% of spots saved for emergencies and standby
Plan ahead and book both legs of your trip (Anacortes ➝ Friday Harbor and back) because each is treated as a separate reservation.
Where to Purchase Ferry Tickets
You don’t prepay for your ferry fare when you reserve your spot. You’ll actually pay when you arrive at the terminal, either at the tollbooth (for vehicles) or inside the terminal (for walk-ons).
One payment covers your round-trip fare. Just make sure to keep your receipt or electronic confirmation for your return trip!
Use a credit card or mobile payment at the terminal, or purchase ahead via the online ticketing system.
How to Use Ferry Tickets
Vehicle drivers should arrive 45–60 minutes before departure and check in at the tollbooth with their reservation number or QR code. You’ll be directed into vehicle holding lanes, where you can use the bathrooms, grab snacks, or just hang out until loading begins.
For walk-on passengers, you only need to show up 10–15 minutes before departure, although earlier is always better on busy days. You’ll board using a passenger ramp and have your choice of indoor or outdoor seating once on board.
Keep your confirmation email handy, either printed or on your phone, as you’ll scan it before boarding.
About the Friday Harbor Ferry
The ferry ride from Anacortes to Friday Harbor takes about 1 hour if it’s direct, or up to 1 hour 40 minutes if it stops at Shaw, Lopez, or Orcas Island. The ferry route is calm, peaceful, and jaw-droppingly scenic. Definitely sit outside if the weather is nice.
Onboard Features:
- Restrooms: Yes, on board and in all terminals
- Food options: Many ferries offer snacks, drinks, and hot meals (menus vary)
- Seating: Indoor tables, cushioned benches, and open-air decks
- Accessibility: Elevators, ramps, and priority boarding for riders with disabilities
- Wi-Fi: Not yet available, so download your music or podcasts ahead of time
Car decks are clearly marked and easy to navigate. Once parked, you can leave your vehicle and explore the ferry. Just make sure you’re back before docking. There’s a reminder over the loudspeakers when it is time to head back to your car so don’t worry about missing it.
FAQs
How Long is the Ferry Ride from Anacortes to Friday Harbor?
The direct ferry takes 1 hour if your sailing includes stops at other islands, plan for about 1 hour 40 minutes.
What is the Friday Harbor Ferry Schedule?
The ferry runs year-round, with increased sailings in spring and summer. Times vary by season, so always check the current ferry schedule before you go.
How Much is the Ferry from Anacortes to Friday Harbor?
Fares depend on vehicle size, number of passengers, and travel dates.
- Walk-on adult: ~$15–$20 roundtrip
- Vehicle + driver: ~$40–$60
- Kids under 19 ride free (walk-on)
- Seniors and riders with disabilities qualify for reduced fares
Use the WSDOT fare calculator to get an exact price for your trip.
Where is the Ferry Terminal in Anacortes?
Address: 2100 Ferry Terminal Rd, Anacortes, WA 98221
The Anacortes terminal offers a parking lot (daily fees apply), public restrooms, and snack options. If you’re coming from the Seattle area or Sea-Tac Airport, both the Bellair Airporter Shuttle and Island Airporter offer easy connections.
Can I Take the Ferry Without a Car?
Absolutely! Walk-on passengers don’t need reservations. You’ll just purchase a ticket at the terminal and walk aboard. Once in Friday Harbor, you can walk to shops, restaurants, and even the whale-watching docks. Check out my upcoming posts on whale watching tours, restaurants in the San Juans, and a full San Juan Island itinerary.
Whether you’re a first-timer or returning for another fun trip to the island, the Friday Harbor ferry ride is so much more than just a way to get to San Juan Island.
