Should I take a ferry to the #onp?

Taking a Ferry to Olympic National Park from Seattle:

Pros & Cons

Planning a trip from Seattle to Olympic National Park? One of the most scenic ways to get there is by ferry, offering a unique experience that sets the tone for an adventurous journey. Let’s break down the pros and cons of taking a ferry versus driving the long way around.

PRO TIP : Skip the madness and boil it down to this. In a hurry? Don't take a ferry. Missed ferry times, full boats, delayed departures could prove very frustrating. Have time? A ferry ride across the sound is BEAUTIFUL and breaks up the drive nicely. A lot of locals will take a ferry for these two reasons alone.

🚢 Pros of Taking a Ferry

✅ Scenic & Relaxing – Starting your trip with a ferry ride across Puget Sound offers stunning water and mountain views. It’s a peaceful way to begin your journey.. ✅ Break from Driving – You get a chance to stretch your legs, grab a snack, and enjoy the fresh air before continuing your trip. ✅ Wildlife Spotting – Keep an eye out for seals, porpoises, and even occasional orcas on your ride! ✅ Convenient Routes – Ferries from Seattle to Bainbridge Island or Edmonds to Kingston provide direct access to the Olympic Peninsula. ✅ Explore Seattle! Again, if you HAVE TIME - take it. Plan to spend an actual day exploring Seattle near the ferry boat. There's plenty to see and do just in Pike Place Market.

⚠️ Cons of Taking a Ferry

❌ Wait Times & Scheduling – Depending on the season, ferry lines can be long, especially on weekends. You may need to wait or plan around the ferry schedule. ❌ Extra Cost – A ferry ticket costs more than simply driving, especially if you're traveling with a vehicle. Prices vary based on vehicle size and number of passengers. ❌ Limited Night Travel – Ferry services run on schedules, and late-night departures can be infrequent. If you’re traveling after dark, you might need to drive the long way around. ❌ Weather Uncertainty – While rare, high winds or storms can cause ferry delays or cancellations.

Is a Ferry Right for Your Trip?

If you value convenience, scenic views, and a relaxed start to your journey, taking a ferry is an excellent choice. However, if you need flexibility, are traveling late, or prefer avoiding extra costs, driving around might be the better option.

Popular Ferry Routes for Olympic National Park Travelers

• Seattle ➝ Bainbridge Island Ferry (Best for reaching Port Angeles & Hurricane Ridge)

• Edmonds ➝ Kingston Ferry (Good for heading west toward Lake Crescent & beyond)

  
  

Let us know which route you ended up taking! Were you bummed? Will you take a ferry next time?