WA Ferry Tracker › Anacortes to Lopez Island Ferry
🔔 Free ferry alerts on WhatsApp| Departs | Anacortes |
|---|---|
| Arrives | Lopez Island |
| Crossing time | about 45 minutes (dock to dock) |
| Operator | Washington State Ferries (WSDOT) |
Schedule
WSF publishes seasonal sailing schedules (fall, winter, spring, summer) and changes sailings for holidays. Always check the current schedule on WSDOT before you go; it changes several times a year.
Wait times and when it's busy
Part of the San Juan Islands route, which takes vehicle reservations. Summer and holiday car space sells out, so book early.
WSDOT posts live terminal wait times and camera views, which are the best guide on the day you travel.
Reservations
Vehicle reservations are available from Anacortes to Lopez; the return from Lopez to Anacortes has no reservations, so cars load first-come, first-served. WA Ferry Tracker can send you a WhatsApp alert when a sold-out westbound sailing opens up.
Tips
- Lopez is the flattest island and a favorite for cycling; walk-ons and bikes need no reservation.
- Walk-on passengers and cyclists never need a reservation; see our walk-on guide.
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early as a walk-on in peak times, and much earlier with a car on holiday weekends.
- Watch WSF rider alerts for cancelled or late sailings caused by crew shortages or vessel issues.
FAQ
How long is the Anacortes to Lopez Island ferry ride?
The crossing takes about 45 minutes, not counting loading and unloading.
Do I need a reservation for the Anacortes to Lopez Island Ferry?
Yes for cars going from Anacortes to Lopez, especially in busy seasons. There are no reservations from Lopez back to Anacortes (first-come, first-served). Walk-ons need none.
How do I check the current ferry wait time?
Use the WSDOT terminal conditions page and cameras, which update throughout the day.
When is the ferry least busy?
Generally midday on weekdays and early mornings on weekends, avoiding commute peaks and holiday getaway days.
Sources
- WSDOT ferry schedules
- WSDOT VesselWatch (live boats, terminal cameras)
- WSDOT: Best times to travel on ferries
Independent guide, not affiliated with Washington State Ferries or WSDOT. Schedules, fares and rules change by season, so confirm on wsdot.wa.gov before you travel. Last updated November 4, 2026.