From Colman Dock to Bainbridge and Bremerton, Washington State Ferries move thousands of vehicles daily; weekend waits can build quickly around midday sailings. If you’re picking up wheels at SEA, start at the car rental area and plan an early arrival at the terminal. For travelers familiar with UK wording, Seattle Airport car hire options are easy to compare in Hola Car Rentals.
Good news: standard rental vehicles are typically allowed on the ferries. You’ll pay by vehicle length and passenger count; attendants may ask you to set the parking brake and stay with the car until instructed to secure it. The ferry crew will guide you onto the deck; follow their directions and avoid idling in enclosed areas.
Reservations & timing: some routes accept reservations that sell out on peak weekends. If your schedule is tight, arrive early or target off‑peak departures. Larger vehicles board differently than compacts; if you’ve chosen an SUV for mountain trips, confirm space and height ahead of time or consider downsizing for the island hop with Seattle city pick‑ups.
What about EVs and rooftop gear? Electric vehicles are allowed, but deck protocols can vary where charging or vents are involved. Remove tall cargo boxes when required and secure bikes firmly. For flexible luggage and people space without added height, check family‑friendly vans near SEA or grab an all‑weather option from popular counters at SEA.
Quick ferry day checklist
- Get to the tollbooths early, especially on sunny weekends and holidays.
- Keep your booking number handy and follow lane assignments posted at the terminal.
- Set the brake, switch off the engine, and take photos of your deck location if you’re new to the system.
- Bring snacks and water; departure times sometimes slide a few minutes during busy periods.
With Hola Car Rentals you’ll enjoy Free Cancellation up to 48 hours, an All‑Inclusive+ Rate that spells out coverage, and perks like cashback on tolls. That way, whether you’re sailing to Bainbridge for lunch or touring the Kitsap Peninsula, your day stays smooth from dock to downtown.
Loading sequence: you’ll queue in numbered lanes, pay or scan, then drive onto the deck when directed. Put the vehicle in park, set the brake, and stay nearby until the crew gives the all‑clear to head upstairs. Keep small children close—the lanes are active until tie‑downs and ramps are secured.
Drive‑on vs walk‑on: for day trips focused on downtown shops or a waterfront stroll, consider walking on and using local transit on the island. For hiking trailheads and scenic loops, having wheels is the better call. If you plan late dinners, driving off lets you head straight to the hotel without chasing bus schedules.
Weather and wind: gusty days can change how the deck loads, especially for taller vehicles with boxes or bikes. The crew may adjust lanes or spacing to keep everyone safe. If you’re tight on time, arrive one sailing earlier than the last departure you need; the extra cushion beats sprinting down the pier.
Right‑sized vehicles: if you’re island‑hopping solely for cafés and viewpoints, a compact keeps waits shorter and maneuvering easy in small towns. Families juggling strollers and coolers might prefer roomier vans near SEA, while trail‑bound groups can grab all‑weather SUVs from SEA for confidence on gravel approaches.
Returns made simple: after your crossing, check your booking for the fuel policy, take a quick video of the exterior, and return keys with the odometer visible in your photo log. Hola Car Rentals keeps deposits and receipts tidy so your post‑trip budgeting is effortless.
Board with confidence. Reserve your vehicle with Hola Car Rentals and catch the next sailing without stress.
