The scenic ferry ride from Seattle to Bainbridge Island will set the stage for your half-day escape to Bainbridge Island and the Bloedel Reserve. You'll enjoy views of the Seattle skyline, the Cascade and Olympic Mountain ranges, marine traffic and a variety of wildlife.  Keep your eyes open for whales on your crossing!

We will tour parts of Bainbridge Island and learn a little history and heritage as we make our way to the Bloedel Reserve located at the northern end of the island.

The Bloedel Reserve is famous for its unique combination of natural forest and beautifully designed gardens.  Your journey from one environment to the other makes a walk through the reserve magical.

The natural landscape is made up of indigenous trees including Douglas Fir, hemlock and western red cedar.  The manicured areas include an internationaly recognized Japanese garden, the moss garden, the beautiful meadow, a formal reflecting pool, a bird marsh and the centerpiece, a French-inspired, classically designed country home with a well stocked library for your enjoyment.

Following your visit to the Bloedel Reserve you will have the option to spend some time in the Winslow area of Bainbridge Island where you can shop, dine, enjoy island activities or extend to an overnight stay.  The walk back to the ferry is just a few blocks.

Of course, we also offer the option of a drop-off at the ferry dock for your free (walk-on) return cruise to Seattle.

This tour is not appropriate for small children.

The Seattle tour that starts with a ferry ride on Washington's #1 attraction, the Washington State Ferry System.

Additional Information

Parking and Ferry:

The Bloedel Reserve - Get an advance preview of the beautiful Bloedel Reserve.

Your Transportation:

Our beautiful bus is a new luxury mini bus. It has a low-step entry with an electric door, stand-up center aisle, reclining leather seats, sound system, public address system, TV/DVD player, and a separate rear compartment for any purchases you may make. 

This vehicle was selected to allow us to get to many interesting Washington locations that are inaccessible for larger motor coaches or low-slung limousines. Its higher seating and large windows allow better viewing of the stunning scenery and views. We have room for up to 12 guests.

Give the gift of an experience! Gift Certificates for this or our other tours!

Take a scenic ferry ride from downtown Seattle (Pier 52 ) to  Bainbridge Island (Ferry tickets can be purchased at the ferry terminal). Enjoy views in every direction as you walk the upper deck or enjoy the comfortable cabin where you can grab a meal or snack and stay cozy on cooler days.

We will pick you up just outside the Bainbridge Island ferry terminal and tour through the Winslow area of Bainbridge Island where you will find a wide variety of dining options and boutique shopping.

Tour the beautiful neighborhoods of Bainbridge Island with views of Seattle, the Cascade Mountains and marine traffic as we make our way to the Bloedel Reserve.

When we reach the world renowned Bloedel Reserve you will receive an orientation at the gatehouse.  We will provide a guided tour or you can choose to explore on your own.

We will have two hours to explore the grounds and enjoy the beautiful manor house with views of Puget Sound and a lovely library where you can relax and enjoy the collection.

Ferries to take from Seattle:

• Morning Tour: Take the 8:45AM ferry (currently offering morning tours only)

Washington State Ferry leaves from Pier 52 - 801 Alaskan Way on the Seattle waterfront.  Arrive at least 10 minutes prior to your scheduled ferry to purchase tickets and make sure you don't miss the ferry.

Kitsap Tours is not associated with the Washington State Ferry System and ferry fare round-trip from Seattle to Bainbridge Island is in addition to the cost of the tour.  Ferry fares are very reasonable - $7.50 Round trip for adults with discounts for seniors and children.

Things To Bring

• Walking shoes!  The walk through the Bloedel Reserve is about two miles with some ups and downs but very good paths.
• It's always a good idea to dress in layers since the weather can change
• An overnight bag if you decide to extend and spend more time with us!
• Kitsap Tours run rain or shine - we provide umbrellas if needed.

Inclusions

Transportation, Bloedel Reserve entry fee, experienced driver and a guided walking tour of Bloedel Reserve.

Exclusions

Ferry fare to Bainbridge Island (Return ferry to Seattle is free), meals. 8.6% sales tax added at checkout. Gratuities.

Departs

Morning tours on Tuesday, Friday and Sunday

Pickup/Departure

Walk on the ferry in Seattle - Pier 52/801 Alaskan Way on the Seattle waterfront:
Morning Tour - Take the 8:45AM ferry from Seattle (currently only offered mornings). Ferry tickets can be purchased at the ferry terminal.

We will meet you just outside the Bainbridge Island ferry terminal. Take the Washington State ferry from Pier 52 on the Seattle waterfront to Bainbridge Island. Ferry tickets can be purchased at the dock. Ferries depart on time; plan to arrive at the pier no less than 10 minutes before your ferry. Other pick-up locations can be arranged with advance notice.

Kitsap Tours is not associated with the Washington State Ferry System and ferry fare round-trip from Seattle to Bainbridge Island is in addition to the cost of the tour. Ferry fares are very reasonable - $7.50 Round trip for adults with discounts for seniors and children.

Drop-Off

You have two options at the end of the tour; get off and spend as much time as you like in the Winslow area of Bainbridge Island to shop, dine and enjoy island activities as you make your way the few blocks to the ferry dock OR we will take you directly to the ferry for your return to Seattle. Of course, you are always welcome to spend the night and we will be happy to recommend a variety of locations within walking distance of the ferry if you decide to extend your stay.

Additional Locations

Seattle, WA, United States