The Bainbridge Island Ferry is a Washington State Ferries route connecting Edmonds to Bainbridge Island. Prices vary by traveler type, vehicle size, and time of day. This guide targets typical cost ranges and the main drivers of price for U.S. travelers.
Introduction summary table
| Item | Low | Average | High | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walk-on Passenger Fare | $7 | $9 | $12 | One-way; discounts rarely apply for occasional riders |
| Vehicle (Standard Car) One-Way | $15 | $23 | $28 | Size and trim affect pricing; SUVs often at higher end |
| Vehicle (Truck/Van) One-Way | $25 | $32 | $40 | Higher due to weight and space |
| Parking or Terminal Fees | $0 | $0–$6 | $6 | Depends on day-use parking policy |
Assumptions: region, vehicle type, time of day, and season affect pricing. All prices shown in USD.
Overview Of Costs
Costs include base fares for passengers and vehicles, potential surcharges, and optional add-ons like reserved seating. The total project range for a simple round-trip with a standard car typically falls in the $30–$60 zone, assuming one driver and no extra passengers. Peak-season demand can push costs toward the higher end, while off-peak travel can yield modest savings.
A typical trip can be broken into two main components: base vehicle or foot passenger fare and any incidental costs at the gate (e.g., parking or vehicle length surcharges). For planning, consider the worst-case scenario where a larger vehicle or extra passengers are included in the same trip, which raises the per-trip price accordingly.
Cost Breakdown
| Category | Low | Average | High | Notes | Per-Unit (example) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Passenger Fare | $7 | $9 | $12 | One-way walk-on fare; round-trip may qualify for discounts if available | $/person |
| Vehicle Fare (Car) | $15 | $23 | $28 | Length/height can add costs; over-width may trigger extra charges | $/vehicle |
| Vehicle Fare (Truck/Van) | $25 | $32 | $40 | Tiered by size and weight | $/vehicle |
| Parking/Terminal Fees | $0 | $0–$6 | $6 | Depends on lot and duration | $/spot |
| Surcharges | $0 | $0–$2 | $3 | Occasional seasonal or operational fees | $/trip |
| Total Range | $7 | $30 | $60 | Typical one-way trip; round-trip often about double the one-way total | $/trip |
Assumptions: standard vehicle within size limits, no special services, and typical traffic conditions.
What Drives Price
Price is driven by traveler type, vehicle size, and time of day. Walk-on fares are lower per person but add up with multiple travelers, while larger vehicles incur higher base rates. Seasonal demand, ferry schedule efficiency, and terminal operations can create modest fluctuations.
Additional factors include special onboard services, vehicle height or length restrictions, and potential surcharges for peak travel windows. The route operates with fixed schedules, so delays do not usually alter the published price but can affect the value of time spent traveling.
Ways To Save
Plan trips during off-peak times and consolidate passengers to reduce per-person costs. Consider walking with only a single vehicle or grouping passengers to lower the impact of multiple fares. Occasional promotions or program discounts may apply, though such offers are not guaranteed year-round.
Buying a return ticket when available can sometimes offer a modest discount versus two separate one-way fares. If visiting Bainbridge Island for extended periods, evaluate whether a nearby parking plan or shuttle option reduces overall trip costs.
Regional Price Differences
Prices can vary slightly by region within the broader Puget Sound area due to local policies and demand patterns. For example, urban terminals near major cities may exhibit marginally higher peak fares, while suburban or rural nodes may reflect steadier rates. Expect a typical ±10% swing between densely trafficked corridors and quieter times.
In the Edmonds–Bainbridge corridor, regional pricing tends to follow standard state ferry tariffs with regional adjustments primarily visible in peak versus off-peak windows rather than dramatic price shifts. This creates predictable budgeting for regular commuters and occasional visitors alike.
Real-World Pricing Examples
Three scenario cards illustrate typical quotes for common trip types.
Assumptions: one adult pedestrian; one standard car; off-peak timing; no extra passengers.
Basic
Specs: Walk-on passenger + standard car; one-way trip on a non-peak day. Labor not a factor; no additional services. Hours: minimal time impact.
Typical quote: Walk-on passenger $9, Car fare $23. Total around $32. Per-unit example: $9 per person, $23 per vehicle.
Mid-Range
Specs: Car with driver and two passengers; off-peak return trip. Minor surcharges avoided by selecting standard vehicle dimensions.
Typical quote: Car $23 + 2 passengers $18 = $41. Total around $41. Per-unit: $23/vehicle, $9–$9 per extra passenger.
Premium
Specs: Large vehicle (truck or SUV) plus three passengers; peak-day travel with parking near terminal. Minor extras may apply for parking or accelerated boarding.
Typical quote: Truck $40 + 3 passengers $27 = $67. Total around $67. Per-unit: $40 per truck, $9 per passenger.
These examples reflect standard expectations and do not include potential seasonal promos or memberships. Assumptions: region, specs, labor hours.
Cost By Region
Regional price differences are modest but notable for budget planning. The Puget Sound corridor generally follows statewide ferry pricing with regional timing adjustments. Urban centers may see peak-rate periods more often, while rural-adjacent boards can present steadier fares. Using a consistent time frame helps avoid price distortions due to demand spikes.
In practice, travelers should plan for a range of $7–$12 for walk-on fares, $15–$28 for standard car fares, and up to $40 for larger vehicles per one-way trip. Round-trip budgeting should account for both legs, plus any parking or incidental fees at the terminals.