Bainbridge Island Ferry Commute

Bainbridge Island is a refreshing blend of sophisticated country and the simpler life — only a short 35-minute boat ride to Seattle.

Watching the shoreline move into view from one of the island’s ferries is awe-inspiring. People making the trip say they begin to drop the cares and concerns of their mainland life at almost that instant. I find that new islanders, or those thinking of becoming islanders, wrestle with the idea of depending on a ferry system to commute. I suppose they’ve become accustomed to a “normal” commute of bumper-to-bumper traffic from other areas they’ve lived. However, most often my clients call me after they’ve chosen island life and say “I can’t believe I didn’t do this long ago!” 

Letting someone else drive while you chat with your neighbor, sip wine, finish emails or take a nap becomes valuable, treasured time for most commuters. Whether heading to work or home, it allows them time to be productive or to relax in a safe, low-key environment with fabulous views. My husband commutes daily, and he enjoys the productivity before work and the “cave time” after work. When he steps through our front door, he is ready to be a father and husband on island time. The peace of mind it gives most without the stress of traffic more than makes up for the fact you are relying on an alternate route of transportation.

Options for Ferry Commuting:

• Carpooling
• Bicycling: You can ride the ferry or keep a bike at the Bike Barn at the ferry.
• Riding a scooter or motorcycle
• Walking on and off the ferry: This is the most relaxed commute.
• Bus Routes: Kitsap Transit has an excellent bus system that is caters to the commuter and non-commuter ferry schedule.  The bus will pick you up close to your home, and in some cases right in front of your house and deliver you home after work. Most of downtown is easily walkable, and monthly passes are reasonable.

Remember you only pay from Seattle to Bainbridge. Bainbridge to Seattle is free. Check out the ferry schedule for more information.

Lastly, we are not solely dependent on the ferries, like other islands. There is a bridge that allows commuters an alternative route. If you’re thinking of buying on Bainbridge, I invite you to explore its different neighborhoods. As a local who loves helping people find their ideal home, I’d be happy to show you around.