Traveling to Orcas Island will take some planning, but the journey is well worth it! Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make the necessary arrangements.
1. Plan and Book Your Ferry:
One essential step is reserving your vehicle on the ferry as soon as dates become available. Currently, booking for our wedding date isn’t open yet, but I’ll be checking regularly and will update this site once reservations are possible.
2. Fly into Seattle and Head to Anacortes:
After arriving in Seattle, rent a vehicle and prepare for a scenic 2-hour drive to the ferry terminal in Anacortes. From Anacortes, you’ll board a 1-hour ferry to Eastsound, Orcas Island. The ferry ride is beautiful, offering views that will make the journey feel like part of the adventure.
3. Arrive on the Island on Friday (Recommended):
To allow for any last-minute schedule changes or delays with the ferry, we suggest arriving on the island by Friday. This extra time gives you flexibility, plus a chance to join us for a casual pizza night at the farm after a day of travel.
4. Where to Stay:
Upon arrival, there are several great accommodations on Orcas Island. You’ll find a list of recommended hotels below, but our family has always enjoyed renting cozy, scenic Airbnbs, which are plentiful on the island. Orcas has everything you’ll need, from an excellent grocery store and restaurants to outdoor rental facilities and charming shops.
https://www.rosariovillage.com/
For a list of things to do during your stay, check the “Activities” tab on this site. Feel free to visit the farm anytime, where the pizza night and wedding will be held—it’s oceanfront, beautiful, and open for you to enjoy even if we aren’t around.
Washinton State Ferry:
https://secureapps.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/reservations/vehicle/default.aspx?op=Make+reservations
Use the link above to reserve your ferry from Anacortes to Eastsound, Orcas Island, and for your return trip to Anacortes. Be sure to allow plenty of travel time, as the ferry operates on a precise schedule. You’ll also need the general dimensions of your rental vehicle when booking.