King County will begin operating Saturday water taxi service between downtown Seattle and Vashon Island starting October 11, adding eight round-trips to expand weekend transportation options for island residents and visitors.
The new Saturday schedule represents a one-year pilot program running through October 2026, providing additional marine transit capacity between Pier 50 in downtown Seattle and the Vashon Ferry Terminal.
Friday service will also expand with an additional 7:30 p.m. departure from Pier 50, extending evening commute options for island residents returning from Seattle.
The pilot program addresses growing demand for alternative transportation to Vashon Island, particularly during weekends when ferry service experiences heavy usage from recreational travelers and residents conducting errands on the mainland.
Water taxi fares remain $7 for adults and $6 for passengers using Orca cards. Passengers 18 and under continue riding free, making the service accessible for families traveling to and from the island.
The Saturday service fills a transportation gap that has historically required Vashon residents to rely solely on Washington State Ferries for weekend travel. The water taxi provides a faster alternative to ferry service, though with limited capacity compared to vehicle ferries.
King County’s marine transit division operates the service as part of its broader public transportation network, which includes ferry connections to West Seattle and other marine routes throughout Puget Sound.
The pilot program’s success will likely influence whether King County makes Saturday water taxi service permanent beyond the initial one-year trial period. Ridership data and community feedback will inform future service decisions.
Vashon Island’s growing population and increased weekend tourism have created pressure on existing transportation infrastructure, making additional marine transit options increasingly valuable for community connectivity.
The expanded schedule reflects King County’s commitment to improving public transportation access for island communities while testing demand for enhanced weekend service.
