On the Ferry

Ferryboats are an essential part of Washington's public transportation system, crossing Puget Sound from one side to the other and touching at all the main islands.

The standard boat looks a lot like the old, car-carrying version of the Staten Island Ferry:



The inside is comfortable but not lavish. There is a small restaurant, and a bar serving local beer and wine:


Outside, the scenery is nothing short of spectacular, with the Cascades and Olympic Mountains frequently looming in the distance:


There can be long lines for car ferries in the summer, but all of them accept walk-ups. Be warned if you go, though: there is no public transportation connection at many of the terminals.