Point Defiance (Tacoma) to Tahlequah (Vashon Island)
Washington State Ferries runs 19 to 20 sailings a day from Point Defiance (Tacoma) to Tahlequah (Vashon Island), the first at 05:05 and the last at 22:30. The crossing takes about 15 minutes, and an adult ticket is US$7.60.
Fares as published by the operators, in USD, last checked . Vehicle fares rise in the summer season, and some crossings collect the fare in one direction only — a "No charge" row is the operator's own entry, not a gap.
About this crossing
WSF's southernmost route leaves from the edge of Point Defiance Park in Tacoma: Pearl Street (SR 163) runs north to the park entrance, where ferry traffic keeps right for the tollbooth instead of entering the park. All fares for the route are taken on this side. Passenger and vehicle tickets bought at Point Defiance cover the trip back from Tahlequah, where nothing is sold. Drivers of tall vehicles should know that the overhead wires at the Point Defiance terminal, and those leaving it, are only 13 feet 6 inches high. Pierce Transit runs buses to the terminal. Fifteen minutes later the boat is at the south end of Vashon; the island's north-end terminal has its own boats to West Seattle and Southworth.
Common questions
How long is the ferry from Point Defiance (Tacoma) to Tahlequah (Vashon Island)?
About 15 minutes on the published timetable.
How many ferries a day go from Point Defiance (Tacoma) to Tahlequah (Vashon Island)?
Between 19 and 20 a day, depending on the day of the week. The most run on Friday. The first boat leaves at 05:05 and the last at 22:30, local time.
Who runs the ferry from Point Defiance (Tacoma) to Tahlequah (Vashon Island)?
Washington State Ferries runs this crossing. Tickets are sold by the operator; this site lists the timetable and does not sell them.
How much is the ferry from Point Defiance (Tacoma) to Tahlequah (Vashon Island)?
An adult ticket is US$7.60 (Adult (age 19 - 64)). Taking a vehicle starts at US$10.95 (Motorcycle & Senior/Disability Driver / Stowage Fare). Prices as the operator published them on 1 August 2026.
