Other Matters: Puget Sound Ferries

The islands of Puget Sound are among the glories of the Pacific Northwest. Vashon Island, where we celebratory couples spent the night after we left Jazz Alley, is one of the loveliest. Because the only way to get to it is on the water, Vashon has managed to retain much of its rural and small town charm despite its proximity to Seattle.

For now, and I hope forever, to get on and off Vashon, you drive, bicycle or walk onto one of the boats of the Washington State ferry system and take a fifteen-minute ride. The ferries run frequently and usually on time. They provide essential transportation for commuters and sightseeing opportunities for visitors.

From time to time there has been talk of building a bridge from Seattle to Vashon. If that happened, the developers would eradicate the place’s character quicker than you can say bulldozer. Island people are frustrated when they miss a ferry or it runs late, but most of those who live on Vashon will regard you with horror if you mention the word bridge. When you find yourself in this part of the world, carve out time to take a ferry boat ride.