The Washington State Ferry to Orcas Island from Anacortes, WA is always worth it. If you’re new to the Washington State Ferry Reservation system, have a look below for Orcas Island ferry reservation basics!
Do I need a ferry reservation?
- If you plan to bring a car on the Washington State Ferry to or from Anacortes, YES, you definitely need to reserve vehicle space.
- If you’re walking on the boat with only a suitcase or a bicycle, you won’t be able to make a reservation, and you won’t need to.
- If you ride the inter-island ferry between Orcas and another island, you won’t be able to reserve a spot for your vehicle on inter-island sailings. Plan to line-up at least 45 minutes before a scheduled inter-island departure.
Be sure to make a vehicle reservation for any sailings that include your vehicle and Anacortes – especially your trip back home!
When can I make a reservation?
As we type, vehicle reservations on the Anacortes/San Juan Island routes are available to reserve through June 17, 2023.
30% of standard vehicle space for travel on the San Juan Island routes between June 18th and September 23rd will be available for reservation at 7:00 AM Pacific on Tuesday, April 25th. View the upcoming schedule online in advance of booking your travel.
Reservations can be made online at www.takeaferry.com or by calling 206-464-6400 and speaking with an Information Agent.
What if there’s nothing available?
If you’re online right at 7:00 AM, be sure to hang in there. Refresh for several minutes after the 7:00am mark to see if availability pops-up. If you miss the first release, you’ll have two additional chances to reserve space for your vehicle:
- 2 weeks before each sailing date at 7:00 AM Pacific:
- Additional 30% of standard vehicle space is released
- 2 days before each sailing date at 7:00 AM Pacific:
- Final 30% of standard vehicle space is released
If you’d like even more information on the Washington State Ferry to Orcas Island, go straight to the source: https://secureapps.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/reservations/vehicle/default.aspx?op=Make+reservations
Most important, before you book your boat, be sure to book your Moran State Park Platform Tent. We’re filling up quickly, but do have some stay possibilities remaining for our 2023 season June 15th – September 5th!
