Washington State Ferries (WSF) is introducing a 3% credit card fee for all ferry travelers, impacting approximately 80% of passengers. This fee, effective March 1, aims to cover the costs associated with processing credit card transactions, which were previously borne by the state. The fee will not apply to cash or ORCA card payments. While some commuters express disappointment, others remain unaffected by the change, citing personal relationships as their primary motivation for ferry travel. The fee was approved by lawmakers in 2025 as part of the transportation budget, with the stipulation that the funds would not be utilized for operational revenue. This decision comes on the heels of a 3% fare increase in May and a 35% summer surcharge to meet legislative revenue targets. State ferries have clarified that the fee will not apply to memorial services, annual business accounts, or promotional activities.
