Improved, two-season schedule in San Juan Islands starts Sept. 21

Washington State Ferries will implement a two-season schedule for the Anacortes/San Juan Islands route starting September 21, 2025, maintaining service through winter and spring for the first time in over 20 years. The new schedule will increase weekly sailings to 144, including five daily interisland trips on weekends, up from 130 last winter. This change, prompted by community input and legislative funding, aims to provide more reliable service for island residents and stabilize work schedules for ferry employees. WSF Planning Manager Jason Rogers stated the agency feels confident in the updated schedule after a successful trial last spring. The consistent schedule will also help ferry workers live locally year-round by making shifts permanent.

Riders can review the new off-peak schedule and make vehicle reservations online, which will be released in three-month intervals to ensure availability. WSF, part of the Washington State Department of Transportation, is the largest ferry system in the U. S. , serving millions annually. This initiative reflects a commitment to enhancing service in response to community needs.