United States
Anacortes to Shaw Island Ferry
Schedule, crossing time & sailings for 2026
Departs
Anacortes
Washington
Arrives
Shaw Island
Washington
Washington State FerriesAt a glance
The Anacortes to Shaw Island ferry takes about 55m–1h 40m, with 12 sailings a day between 05:30 and 21:25. It is operated by Washington State Ferries. Fares start from $18.
- First sailing
- 05:30
- Last sailing
- 21:25
- Sailings / day
- 12
- Crossing
- from 55m
Anacortes to Shaw Island ferry timetable
| Departs | Arrives | Duration | Operator | Runs |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 05:30 | 07:05 | 1h 35m | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
| 05:45 | 07:20 | 1h 35m | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
| 07:25 | 09:05 | 1h 40m | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
| 07:30 | 09:10 | 1h 40m | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
| 10:30 | 11:30 | 1h | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
| 11:55 | 12:55 | 1h | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
| 15:20 | 16:50 | 1h 30m | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
| 15:45 | 16:45 | 1h | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
| 18:05 | 19:05 | 1h | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
| 19:50 | 20:50 | 1h | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
| 20:40 | 21:35 | 55m | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
| 21:25 | 22:45 | 1h 20m | Washington State Ferries | Daily |
Times are indicative and may change seasonally. Confirm with the operator before travelling.
About the Anacortes – Shaw Island crossing
Washington State Ferries schedules six daily sailings between Anacortes and Shaw Island, with service running every day. The first departure from Anacortes is at 05:45, and the final sailing of the day leaves at 21:25. This route is part of the San Juan Islands domestic ferry system, which also connects Anacortes with Lopez Island, Orcas Island, and Friday Harbor.
Timetables and Durations
The crossing covers a distance of approximately 11 nautical miles. Trip durations vary based on the specific timetable and intermediate stops. The fastest journey is scheduled to take 1 hour, while other sailings can last 1 hour 20 minutes, 1 hour 35 minutes, or up to 1 hour 40 minutes.
Shaw Island is one of four islands served by this inter-island network from the mainland terminal at Anacortes. Travellers should consult the specific daily schedule to confirm the exact departure and arrival times, as well as the vessel's full sequence of port calls, which accounts for the variable crossing times.
Vehicles, pets & onboard
- Vehicle reservations on selected routes
- Real-time vessel map
- Terminal traffic cameras showing holding lanes
- First-time rider's guide
- Published guidance for riders with disabilities
Vehicle space is available on this route — book early, especially in peak season. Onboard facilities and vehicle, pet and luggage policies vary by operator and vessel; confirm details with the operator before booking.
Getting to & from the ports
Frequently asked questions
How long is the ferry ride?
Around 55m, depending on sea conditions.
How many times a day does it sail?
12 sailings a day.
How do I get back from Shaw Island?
Check the Shaw Island to Anacortes ferry for return times.
Who operates the service?
Washington State Ferries runs this crossing.
Does this ferry cross an international border?
No, it's entirely within United States.
When's the last ferry of the day?
The last sailing leaves at 21:25.
How much does a ticket cost?
Fares start from around $18. Prices vary by operator, season, cabin and whether you take a vehicle.
What's the fastest crossing option?
The quickest option takes about 55m. Crossing time depends on the operator and vessel — compare sailings from Washington State Ferries above.
Can I do this as a day trip?
A day trip is often possible: with a crossing of about 55m and several sailings a day (first 05:30, last 21:25), you can return the same day. Always check the return timetable before you go.
Does the ferry run all year?
Sailings run daily, and frequency can change between the summer and winter seasons. The timetable above shows the latest published departures — confirm with the operator for off-season dates.
Can I take a car on this ferry?
Yes — Washington State Ferries carries vehicles on this route. Book your car space in advance, especially in peak season, and check the specific sailing for size limits.
Can I take a pet on this ferry?
Most ferry operators allow pets on this route, usually in a carrier, on deck or in designated pet areas or cabins, and registered assistance dogs travel free. Rules and any fees vary by operator and vessel — check with Washington State Ferries, so declare your pet when booking.
Continue your journey
Onward sailings from Shaw Island
Plan a multi-leg trip — these ferries depart Shaw Island.
Same departure port
More ferries from Anacortes
Everything else that sails from the same quay.
Sharing a stop
Crossings calling at Anacortes or Shaw Island
Nearby links that share a quay with this one.
Timetable valid Aug 29, 2026 – Oct 18, 2026.
Reviewed by Serhat Özçelik, Founder & Editor of Ferry Schedule Hub · Last updated August 30, 2026.
Operated by
Fares from
$18
Lowest published one-way fare. Final price varies by operator, date and vehicle.
Ports on this route
Anacortes on the map
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