Ferry Map & Routes to Orcas Island
Ferry routes to Juneau bring you through the breathtaking Inside Passage directly into the Auke Bay terminal. The Alaska Marine Highway System is the largest operator navigating this massive coastal network, moving around 300,000 passengers statewide every year. Check the ferry map above to coordinate your long-haul connections south to Ketchikan or north to Haines. Driving your car aboard is highly recommended if you plan to explore the extensive road system surrounding the state capital.
How to reach Orcas Island from WA
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The San Juan Horseshoe: Ferry map to Orcas Island
Orcas Island is the largest of the San Juan Islands, located in the Salish Sea in Washington State. The largest ferry operator in the region is Washington State Ferries. This massive public system moves millions of riders a year across all its routes, with Orcas being a major summer hotspot.
Here are 4 tips for getting to Orcas Island by ferry:
- 1. Start in Anacortes: All ferries to Orcas Island leave from the mainland city of Anacortes. The drive from Seattle takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, so factor that into your travel time.
- 2. You must reserve a car spot: In the summer, you cannot just show up with a car. You need to book your vehicle reservation online weeks in advance. If you do not, you will sit in the standby lane for hours.
- 3. Foot passengers are easy: If you walk on the boat without a car, you do not need a reservation. You just buy a ticket at the terminal. It is cheaper and totally stress free.
- 4. The scenic route: The boat ride takes about an hour. Go to the top deck because the ferry weaves through beautiful green islands. People often see bald eagles and even killer whales from the boat.
Washington State Ferries rules are strict. Even if you have a reservation, you must be through the toll booth at least 30 minutes before the boat leaves. If you arrive 29 minutes before, you lose your spot and your money.
“Orcas Island is very hilly and spread out. If you walk on the ferry, know that the port is not near the main town of Eastsound. You will need to arrange a shuttle, rent a car at the dock, or bring a very good bicycle.”
