Get ready to pay more for a Washington state ferry ride

The Washington State Transportation Commission approved a 3% fare increase for state ferries, effective October 1, with another increase set for May 2026. Additionally, the commission raised the summer surcharge to 35% and extended the validity of multi-ride passes from 90 to 120 days. Commissioner Debbie Young stated that the fare adjustments aim to minimize the burden on regular riders. Washington State Ferries needs to generate $408. 8 million in fares over the next two years to cover operating costs.

Officials project that the fare increases will yield $412. 3 million, slightly exceeding the target. Despite the hikes, ferry ridership is expected to increase by 2. 3 million this budget cycle, marking a 6% rise. This increase is attributed to restored domestic service and the governor's decision to delay hybrid-electric conversions of larger ferries.

Nonetheless, current ridership remains significantly lower than pre-pandemic figures.