Vashon Island Ferry Schedule

WSF Alerts: Fauntleroy To Vashon Island This feed lists alerts for the Washington State Ferries pertaining to the Fauntleroy to Vashon Island terminal combination.


Vashon / Fauntleroy Route

WSF Sailing Times Today: Fauntleroy To Vashon Island This feed lists remaining sailing times for Washington State Ferries traveling from Fauntleroy to Vashon Island on today’s date (11/11/2024). Vashon Low Tides

Vashon / Southworth Route

WSF Sailing Times Today: Vashon Island To Southworth This feed lists remaining sailing times for Washington State Ferries traveling from Vashon Island to Southworth on today’s date (11/11/2024). Vashon Low Tides

Tahlequah / Point Defiance Route

WSF Sailing Times Today: Tahlequah To Point Defiance This feed lists remaining sailing times for Washington State Ferries traveling from Tahlequah to Point Defiance on today’s date (11/11/2024). Vashon Low Tides


Ferry Routes to Vashon Island: Seattle, Southworth, and Tacoma

Choosing between Bainbridge and Vashon Island for a ferry trip depends on what you seek. Vashon Island, accessible via Fauntleroy in West Seattle, offers a charming rural atmosphere and an artistic vibe. While a car is recommended to explore the island’s quaint villages and scenic landscapes fully, Vashon provides a peaceful escape from the city bustle.

Access to Vashon Island

  • No bridge access: Vashon Island is accessible only by sea or air, with no bridge connections.
  • Washington State Ferry: The primary mode of transportation, with routes from Seattle, Southworth, and Tacoma.
  • Vashon Municipal Airport: No regular air service.
  • King County Metro provides daily bus service, including peak-time ferries to Seattle. As of 2016, Sunday service has been restored.

Ferry Terminals

  • Southern terminal: Tahlequah connects to Tacoma via the Point Defiance–Tahlequah ferry.
  • Northern terminal: Point Vashon connects to Southworth and West Seattle.
  • Passenger-only ferry: Weekday service from Heights Dock to Colman Dock in Downtown Seattle.

Why Choose Vashon Island?

Vashon Island is the better choice for a relaxed, artistic escape with natural beauty and a slower pace than Bainbridge. Bainbridge, while easily accessible from downtown Seattle and featuring the charming village of Winslow, is more commercial and built up. Vashon, with its rural charm, is ideal for those seeking tranquility.

Fun Facts About Washington State Ferries

  • 26.1 million passengers: Carried last year.
  • 11.3 million vehicles: Rode ferries in 2001.
  • 42,000 miles: Vehicles lined up would stretch this distance.
  • Dual propellers: Ferries have propellers on both ends for maneuverability.
  • Route lengths: Range from 1.7 to 39.9 miles.
  • Seattle-Bainbridge route: Carried 6.9 million riders.
  • Fleet size: 29 vessels, including five passenger-only.
  • Daily operations: Average 500 departures and 2,500 miles.
  • Starbucks coffee: Passengers averaged 25,888 cups weekly in 2000.
  • High safety rate: Despite occasional mechanical issues.

Explore the unique charm of Vashon Island with its scenic beauty and artistic communities, making it a memorable destination just a ferry ride away.