The Seattle-Bainbridge Island Ferry is a vital transportation service that connects the city of Seattle with Bainbridge Island across the Puget Sound in Washington State. This ferry service plays an essential role in the daily lives of commuters, residents, and visitors, providing both a practical route and a scenic passage through one of the most beautiful waterways in the Pacific Northwest. The Seattle-Bainbridge Island route is one of several operated by the Washington State Ferries system, which is the largest ferry network in the United States.
Ferry service between Seattle and Bainbridge Island began in the late 19th century, though the exact origins are somewhat unclear. By the 1880s, a small fleet of private ferries started to operate across the Puget Sound, initially serving mainly cargo needs and transporting passengers in smaller, rudimentary boats. This service was crucial in a region where road infrastructure was minimal, and the waterways served as the primary means of connecting the islands with the mainland.
The Seattle-Bainbridge route gained importance over the years, especially as the city of Seattle grew rapidly at the turn of the 20th century. Early ferryboats, often steam-powered, carried passengers and freight, facilitating the economic development of both Bainbridge Island and Seattle itself.
The early 20th century saw the arrival of larger, more reliable ferries that could accommodate more vehicles and passengers. In 1929, the Washington State Ferries system was formed under the jurisdiction of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), marking the beginning of state involvement in the ferry system. With this new structure, ferry service became more reliable and streamlined, and service schedules became more consistent to meet the increasing demand for travel between Seattle and Bainbridge Island.
By the mid-20th century, as the automobile became a staple of American life, ferry service expanded to meet the growing needs of commuters. The introduction of larger ferries capable of transporting cars, trucks, and more passengers signaled the increasing importance of the Seattle-Bainbridge route as both a commuter link and a tourist attraction.
In the decades following World War II, the population boom in the Seattle metropolitan area and the increased use of automobiles led to the ferry system’s further expansion. The 1950s and 1960s saw the introduction of more modern, spacious ferries. This era also marked the beginning of the route becoming a signature feature of the Seattle-Bainbridge experience, with the ferry ride offering breathtaking views of the Puget Sound and nearby islands.
The ferry service also began to play a more vital role in the local economy. Bainbridge Island’s population grew, and the island became a popular residential area for people working in Seattle. By the 1970s, the service had become indispensable to those commuting daily between the two locations.
The latter half of the 20th century presented some challenges for the Seattle-Bainbridge ferry system. While the ferry fleet remained relatively reliable, occasional storms, technological limitations, and increased demand required the state to invest in new and improved vessels. One of the most significant challenges came from the aging fleet and the rising number of commuters.
In response, the Washington State Ferries system began replacing older boats with newer, more efficient ferries. Notable upgrades took place in the 1980s and 1990s, with the introduction of larger ferries designed to increase capacity and improve operational efficiency. These new vessels also featured modern amenities, enhancing the comfort of passengers during the 35-minute crossing.
Environmental considerations also became a key focus. With the growth in ferry traffic and the increasing environmental awareness of the 21st century, efforts were made to introduce more fuel-efficient ferries and explore alternative energy sources for the fleet.
Today, the Seattle-Bainbridge Island Ferry remains a critical component of the region’s transportation network. The ferry system operates year-round, with frequent sailings throughout the day, especially during the busy morning and evening commuter hours. It carries approximately 8 million passengers annually, along with over 3 million vehicles.
The ferry ride itself continues to be one of the most iconic travel experiences in the Seattle area. Offering sweeping views of the Seattle skyline, Mount Rainier, and the surrounding islands, it attracts not only commuters but also tourists from around the world who seek a picturesque journey through Puget Sound.
Over the decades, the ferries themselves have been upgraded several times to accommodate more vehicles and passengers, improve safety, and enhance environmental standards. As of January 2025, the Seattle-Bainbridge Island route is primarily serviced by two ferries, the M/V Tacoma, and the M/V Suquamish.
The M/V Tacoma was built in 1997 in Seattle. It is a diesel-electric propulsion, Jumbo Mark II Class ferry with a length of over 460 feet. It can carry 2,499 passengers and 202 vehicles. The ferry features an elevator and restrooms (but no wi-fi access).
The ferry's name honors what is known today as Mt. Rainer - originally from the native "Tah-ho-mah" which means "snowy mountain".
The M/V Suquamish is one of the newest ferries in the WSDOT's fleet, having been built in Seattle in 2018. It is an Olympic Class ferry just over 362 feet in length. It has a passenger capacity of 1,500 passengers and can ferry 144 vehicles.
The ferry's name recognizes the Suquamish people, who are known as the "people of the clear salt water" in the language of Southern Coast Salish Lushootseed.