What to know about ferry reservations in Washington

Driving the news: Reservations for ferries between the San Juan Islands and Anacortes, as well as Port Townsend and Coupeville, opened this week for the summer season, June 15 to Sept. 20.

• They're not required — and on most routes are not available — but they're strongly recommended for the San Juan and Port Townsend crossings, especially on holidays and weekends.

How it works: Reservations are for vehicles only; walk-on passengers and cyclists don't need them, per WSF.

• Round-trip is not included. Make sure you book your return trip at the same time.
• There's no fee to reserve, but no-shows will be charged.
• Reservation slots are released in waves: two months, two weeks, and two days before sailings.
• Make or manage them at wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/reservations.

The fine print: Get to the terminal at least 30–45 minutes early for the Port Townsend/Coupeville run and 45 minutes to an hour early for Anacortes/San Juan Islands.

• If you're late, you may forfeit your spot.
• If your sailing is canceled, those with reservations get priority when service resumes.
• Standby space is very limited and not guaranteed.

The bottom line: A ferry trip to the San Juan Islands is one of the best getaways in the Pacific Northwest and the sailing itself is at least half the fun.

• For about $81 for a standard vehicle and driver and $16.50 per adult passenger, you get rocky coastlines, possible orca sightings and a front-row seat to Puget Sound's wind and waves.