The Guemes Island Ferry is a vital passenger and vehicle ferry service operated by Skagit County Public Works, connecting Anacortes on Fidalgo Island to Guemes Island. This short 5‑ to 8‑minute route has been running since 1890 and today regularly transports approximately 400,000 passengers and 200,000 vehicles annually. It’s the only access route to Guemes Island—making it essential for commuters, tourists, and essential services alike. Whether you’re traveling on foot, by bike, or with a vehicle, planning your trip around its reliable schedule ensures a smooth journey.
Possible Routes
The ferry operates a single main route:
- Operator: Skagit County Public Works – Ferry Division
- Departure Port: Anacortes, WA (500 I Avenue)
- Arrival Port: Guemes Island, WA
- Vessels: M/V Guemes (vehicle + passenger ferry) and during dry-dock, the passenger-only “Strait Arrow”.
Ferry Schedule
Current sailing hours are as follows, based on Skagit County and LineTime data :
| Day | Anacortes → Guemes | Guemes → Anacortes |
|---|---|---|
| Monday–Saturday | Between 07:00 –11:45 & 12:30 –17:30 | Same return window |
| Sunday | Between 08:30 –11:45 & 12:30 –17:15 | Same return window |
Note: Ferry schedules are subject to seasonal and weather-related changes. Please confirm the latest timings before your trip.
Ticket Prices
Fares effective Feb 26 – Dec 31, 2025 are published by Skagit County and Cascadia Daily News:
| Category | One‑Way | Round‑Trip |
|---|---|---|
| Adult (19‑64) | $6.75 | $13.50 |
| Senior (65+) | $5.00* | $10.00 |
| Child (6‑18) | $3.50 | $7.00* |
| Infant (5 & under) | FREE | FREE |
| Bicycle | $3.00 | $6.00 |
| Motorcycle | $9.00 | $18.00 |
| Car (≤ 22 ft) | $21.00 | $42.00 |
*Peak-season fares and senior/child discounts; check operator pricing specifics.
Note: Ticket prices may vary depending on the season or special events. Please check with the operator for the latest fares.
How to Buy Tickets
Travelers have two options:
- Online via Skagit County’s electronic ticketing portal (Anchor system). Purchase ahead on smartphones and display QR code for boarding.
- In-person at Anacortes terminal ticket window, located in main lobby at 500 I Ave. They accept credit/debit cards and contactless payments (no cash/check).
- Punch cards for frequent riders can be purchased by phone or in-person; contact Skagit County Public Works at (360) 293‑6433 or (360) 416‑1436.
Travel Tips
- Arrive at least 15–20 minutes early—vehicles must be ticketed before boarding cutoff.
- Avoid peak congestion by traveling early morning or after 4 pm.
- During vessel dry-dock, a foot-only ferry and shuttle service is available; vehicle transport must be arranged via private operators.
- Weather delays can occur—especially strong winds or heavy rain. Use subscription alerts or check live ferry cams.
Onboard Experience
- Seating: Indoor and outdoor passenger areas; vehicle passengers stay with their vehicle or nearby.
- Facilities: Restrooms available at terminals and onboard.
- No onboard dining or Wi‑Fi, but waiting room at Anacortes offers shelter and seating.
- Accessibility: Ramps for scooters and wheelchairs. Ferry crew assist as needed.
Nearby Attractions
At Anacortes:
- Historic downtown (cafes, galleries)
- Shoreline Park and ferry cams
- 72‑hour parking at 6th & K Avenue
On Guemes Island:
- Hiking/wildlife at Guemes Mountain Trail, Dog Woods, Kelly’s Point, Peach Preserve
- Guemes Island General Store—coffee and snacks beside terminal
- Seasonal events like Chamber Music and church-organized soup lunches
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What time does the ferry start running?
It begins at ~7:00 am on weekdays and Saturdays (8:30 am on Sundays), with service continuing until ~5:30 pm.
2. Can I bring my car on the ferry?
Yes. The M/V Guemes carries vehicles up to 22 ft.
3. Is there a ferry at night?
Regular operations end by ~5:30 pm Sunday and ~17:30 weekdays/Saturday; no late‑night sailings.
4. How long is the crossing?
The one-way trip takes about 5–8 minutes.
5. Are there discounts for seniors or children?
Yes—seniors and youth receive lower fares during peak season; infants ride free.
6. What happens during dry‑dock periods?
A passenger-only ferry (Strait Arrow) operates on schedule; vehicle transport requires private service.
7. Can bicyclists ride?
Yes, bike fare is $3 each way and boarding is easy from waiting pens.
8. Is there Wi‑Fi onboard?
No onboard connectivity—but terminals provide shelter and you can bring portable hotspots.