Walking On the Anacortes Ferry

Walking on is the cheapest and simplest way to ride the Anacortes ferry. Walk-on passengers never need a reservation, pay only on the way out of Anacortes, and board whether or not the car deck is full.

Anacortes Ferry Walk-On Fares

Fares in effect November 10, 2026.

From Anacortes toAdultSenior or disabilityYouth 18 and underBicycle surcharge
Lopez Island$18.00$9.00Free$2.00
Shaw Island$18.00$9.00Free$2.00
Orcas Island$18.00$9.00Free$2.00
Friday Harbor (San Juan Island)$18.00$9.00Free$2.00

The trip back to Anacortes is free, and walk-on passengers ride free between the islands. See Anacortes ferry tickets and fares for every fare.

Parking for Walk-On Passengers

Walk-on passengers park in the paid lots along Ferry Terminal Road. Current rates:

Off-peak rates effective October 1 - April 30, 2027:

For Cars

  • 15 minutes – no charge
  • 1 day rate – $8.00
  • 2 day rate – $13.00
  • 3 day rate – $15.00
  • 4 day rate – $19.00
  • 7 day rate – $24.00
  • 8 day rate – $30.00
  • 9 day rate – $35.00
  • 10 day rate – $40.00
  • 14 day rate – $46.00
  • 15 day rate – $51.00
  • 16 day rate – $57.00
  • 17 day rate – $62.00
  • 21 day rate – $67.00

For RVs

  • 1 day rate – $13.00
  • 2 day rate – $24.00
  • 3 day rate – $28.00
  • 4 day rate – $35.00
  • 7 day rate – $46.00
  • 8 day rate – $57.00
  • 9 day rate – $67.00
  • 10 day rate – $78.00
  • 14 day rate – $87.00
  • 15 day rate – $98.00
  • 16 day rate – $112.00

See Anacortes ferry parking for a map of the lots and how to pay.

When to Arrive

Vehicle reservations to the San Juan Islands are available online or by speaking to an information agent, and must be made at least 2 hours prior to sailing time. A 45 to 60 minute advance arrival is advised for reservation holders. Reservation holders who check in later than 30 minutes prior to sailing time will travel stand by. Walk on passengers should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure.

Getting Around the Islands on Foot

San Juan Island (Friday Harbor)

The ferry lands in downtown Friday Harbor, so shops, restaurants and lodging are a short walk away. In summer, generally Memorial Day through Labor Day, the Friday Harbor Jolly Trolley runs a hop-on, hop-off loop to Roche Harbor, Lime Kiln and English Camp.

Orcas Island

The ferry lands at Orcas Village, a few miles from Eastsound, the island's main town. There is no public transit. Rental cars that deliver to the landing, taxis and bike rentals are listed on the Orcas Island transportation page.

Lopez Island

Lopez has no rental cars or public transit, and the landing is about 4 miles from Lopez Village. Most visitors bike. Several bike shops and some lodgings will meet you at the ferry; see getting to Lopez Island.

Shaw Island

Shaw is small and quiet, with no transit or rentals. Plan to walk or bring a bike.

Every sailing is in the Anacortes ferry schedule.

Anacortes Ferry Walk-On FAQs

How much does it cost to walk on the Anacortes ferry?

An adult walk-on fare from Anacortes is $18.00, seniors and riders with a disability pay $9.00, and youth 18 and under ride free. You pay only at Anacortes, so the trip back is free.

Do walk-on passengers need a reservation?

No. Reservations are only for vehicles. Walk-on passengers and bicyclists buy a ticket at the terminal or online and board without one.

Where do walk-on passengers park at the Anacortes ferry?

In the paid lots along Ferry Terminal Road, where a day costs $8.00. See Anacortes ferry parking for the lots and every rate.

How early should walk-on passengers get to the Anacortes ferry?

Walk on passengers should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to departure.

More Anacortes Ferry Guides