WA Ferry Tracker › Point Defiance (Tacoma) to Tahlequah (Vashon) Ferry
🔔 Free ferry alerts on WhatsApp| Departs | Point Defiance, Tacoma |
|---|---|
| Arrives | Tahlequah, south Vashon Island |
| Crossing time | about 15 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
One small boat serves this route, so summer weekends can mean a wait of a sailing or two.
WSDOT posts live terminal wait times and camera views, which are the best guide on the day you travel.
Reservations
This route does not take vehicle reservations: cars are loaded first come, first served, so the line at the terminal is the wait. WSF vehicle reservations exist only on the San Juan Islands/Sidney and Port Townsend/Coupeville routes.
Tips
- A handy back door to Vashon from Tacoma, right next to Point Defiance Park.
- 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 Point Defiance (Tacoma) to Tahlequah (Vashon) ferry ride?
The crossing takes about 15 minutes, not counting loading and unloading.
Do I need a reservation for the Point Defiance (Tacoma) to Tahlequah (Vashon) Ferry?
No. This route is first come, first served for vehicles, and walk-ons just buy a ticket.
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.