Driving
Ship
Bainbridge Island to Tacoma
Updated: 30 May 2026
The journey from Bainbridge Island to Tacoma spans approximately 65 kilometers. You must first take the Washington State Ferry from the Bainbridge terminal to Seattle. From downtown Seattle, you connect to Interstate 5 South for the remainder of the drive. The total travel time averages 90 minutes depending on ferry wait times and highway congestion. This route offers iconic views of the Seattle skyline and the Olympic Mountains.
Total Distance: 65 km driving, 45 km straight-line.
Fastest Way
Driving your own vehicle, taking approximately 90 minutes outside of peak traffic.
Cheapest Way
Ferry as a walk-on passenger followed by Sound Transit bus, costing under $10.
Compare Bainbridge Island to Tacoma Routes
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Direct
|
Direct
|
|
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 1 hour 30 minutes | 35 minutes (ferry only) |
| Avg Price | $20 - $30 | $10 - $15 |
| Operator | Personal Vehicle | Washington State Ferries |
| Route | WA-305 to I-5 South | Bainbridge Island Ferry Terminal to Seattle Colman Dock |
| Tip | Avoid I-5 during peak rush hours between 7 AM and 9 AM. | Walk-on passengers save significant time compared to vehicle boarding. |
Travel Tips
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Ferry ReservationsCheck the WSDOT website for vehicle reservation availability.
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ORCA CardUse an ORCA card for seamless transfers between ferries and buses.
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Peak HoursAvoid the ferry during Friday afternoon rush hour.
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Weather CheckMonitor marine forecasts for potential high-wind cancellations.
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ParkingUse the Bainbridge parking garage if leaving your car behind.
Safety Tips
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Ferry SafetyFollow all crew instructions during boarding and docking.
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Road ConditionsWatch for heavy rain on I-5 during winter months.
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Emergency KitsKeep a basic emergency kit in your vehicle for highway travel.
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Pedestrian SafetyUse designated crosswalks at the Seattle ferry terminal.
People Also Ask
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Is there a direct train?No, there is no direct train from Bainbridge Island to Tacoma.
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How long is the ferry ride?The ferry crossing takes approximately 35 minutes.
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Can I take a bus?Yes, Kitsap Transit connects to the ferry, and Sound Transit serves Tacoma.
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Is the ferry expensive?Fares are moderate, with discounts for seniors and youth.
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Does the ferry run at night?Yes, the Bainbridge-Seattle route operates late into the night.
Quick Info
- From Bainbridge Island, Washington, United States
- To Tacoma, Washington, United States
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Modes
Best Time to Travel
May through September for clear weather and reliable ferry operations.
Things to Do in Tacoma
1
Museum of Glass
Explore the world-renowned glass art collection in Tacoma. The Hot Shop amphitheater offers live glass-blowing demonstrations.
2
Point Defiance Park
Visit this 700-acre park featuring a zoo, aquarium, and rose gardens. It offers stunning views of the Puget Sound.
3
Washington State History Museum
Learn about the rich heritage of the Pacific Northwest. The museum is located near the historic Union Station.
4
Bainbridge Island Museum of Art
Start your trip by viewing contemporary art from the Puget Sound region. Admission is free to the public.
Tags
Bainbridge to Tacoma ferry
driving Bainbridge to Tacoma
WSDOT ferry schedule
Tacoma travel guide
Seattle to Tacoma transit
Bainbridge Island transport
Washington state travel
I-5 traffic tips
Tacoma ferry terminal
Puget Sound travel
