KT to continue extra fast ferry sailings on Bremerton-Seattle route

By Staff report • July 31, 2025 1:30 am

Kitsap Transit will receive $2.9 million from the state to continue extra passenger-only ferry service on the Bremerton-Seattle route through the end of August 2026.

KT’s Bremerton fast ferry will operate the extra sailings on weekdays, but not on Saturdays from October through April. The extension means the agency can maintain the additional sailings to support the region during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, per a news release.

The state funding comes from a $4 million legislative appropriation and heralds the end of extra passenger-only ferry service that filled gaps in Washington State Ferries service, spawned by the COVID-19 pandemic. The legislature gave WSF discretion in dividing the money between KT and King County Metro, which operates Water Taxi service.

“We’re glad to see Washington State Ferries has been able to restore two-boat service on the Bremerton-Seattle route,” said John Clauson, KT’s executive director.

In September 2021, WSF reduced its two-boat service on the Seattle-Bremerton route to one as it struggled with crew shortages. Community leaders called on the state to fill the resulting gaps in cross-sound ferry service by temporarily funding extra service on Kitsap fast ferries, per the release.

Starting Dec. 1, 2022, KT expanded its weekday schedule by seven roundtrips – four in the morning, three in the evening – and added Saturday sailings to its winter schedule, which runs October through April.

Gov. Bob Ferguson announced earlier this year that WSF would return to full domestic service, with the Bremerton-Seattle route resuming two-boat service June 15. The Fauntleroy/Vashon/ Southworth “triangle” route returned to three-boat service June 30.

“We are grateful that the state legislature provided funding to supplement additional Kitsap Transit fast ferry runs on the Bremerton route for residents and visitors,” Bremerton Mayor Greg Wheeler said. “This financial support will help ensure fast ferries are operating multiple roundtrips for the city of Bremerton’s Fan Zone during the World Cup in Seattle in 2026.”