A new passenger-only ferry route will connect Everett and Langley this summer as local port officials launch a seasonal pilot program aimed at boosting tourism and testing demand for future cross-sound service.
The new “Harbor Hopper” foot ferry will begin operating June 4 through Aug. 29, offering twice-daily roundtrip sailings on Thursdays and Saturdays between the Port of Everett and Langley on South Whidbey Island. The service will operate aboard the 45-passenger Hat Island Ferry.
The pilot program is a partnership between the Port of Everett, Port of South Whidbey and Hat Island Community Association. Officials said it marks the first seasonal passenger-only ferry connection between the two waterfront communities.
Passengers will be able to choose from two Everett-bound and two Langley-bound sailings each operating day, except July 2 and July 4. Trips are expected to take about 30 to 45 minutes.
Fares range from $10 to $12 one-way and $16 to $20 roundtrip.
Port leaders said the service is designed primarily for tourism and recreational travel, giving residents and visitors a car-free option for day trips, weekend getaways and summer travel between Snohomish County and Whidbey Island.
“Launching Harbor Hopper opens up a whole new kind of visitor experience at our two waterfront destinations,” said Catherine Soper, chief of business development and tourism for the Port of Everett.
Soper said the ferry schedule was designed around major summer attractions and events on both sides of the water, including concerts, festivals, dining, shopping and Everett’s FIFA World Cup Fan Zone waterfront watch parties in June.
Officials also said the pilot will help gauge long-term interest in expanded passenger ferry service between Everett and Whidbey Island.
“For years our ports have talked about a service that could connect our two communities and we are very excited for what this service will provide for both of our destinations,” said Jim Pivarnik, executive director of the Port of South Whidbey.
The Port of Everett said the new route comes as its Waterfront Place district continues to grow as a regional destination. The area now includes restaurants, hotels, housing, beaches, parks and year-round events.
Meanwhile, Langley — often called the “Village by the Sea” — is known for its waterfront views, shops, galleries, wineries and whale-watching opportunities.
Officials said the Harbor Hopper is intended to complement existing travel options while reviving a style of passenger ferry travel once common across Puget Sound.
More information and booking updates are available through the Port of Everett’s Harbor Hopper website.
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