WA Ferry Tracker › Seattle to Bainbridge Island Ferry
🔔 Free ferry alerts on WhatsApp| Departs | Seattle (Colman Dock, Pier 52) |
|---|---|
| Arrives | Bainbridge Island (Winslow) |
| Crossing time | about 35 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
Commuter peaks: westbound out of Seattle on weekday afternoons and eastbound from Bainbridge in the morning. Summer weekends and Seahawks/Mariners game days add car lines on both sides.
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
- Walk-ons rarely wait: Winslow's shops and restaurants are a short walk from the dock, which makes this the classic car-free day trip from Seattle.
- 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 Seattle to Bainbridge Island ferry ride?
The crossing takes about 35 minutes, not counting loading and unloading.
Do I need a reservation for the Seattle to Bainbridge Island 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.