— from Lance Evans, Director, Orcas Chamber of Commerce —

EDITORS UPDATE: At 9:31 a.m. according to Orcas Issues reader Janet Brownell, the internet system appears to have crashed; the phone. Calling reservation system’s phone number 1-888-808-7977 results in a message saying the system is “experiencing technical” problems. Holding to speak to a reservation agent, Orcas Issues is informed that we are 17th in line. We received  return call at 10:40 a.m.)

At 7 am on Tuesday, April 14 the ferry system opens the summer schedule (June 14 – September 19) to reservations. Meaning, if you want to secure a spot for yourself, a friend or family member, or a guest, you can do so tomorrow. Reservations for all the San Juan Islands will be available. Don’t forget to reserve travel in both directions if needed (Anacortes to Orcas, and Orcas to Anacortes).

Of course, the spots available to reserve will only be 30% of the respective ferry run’s capacity. Another 30% will open up 2 weeks prior to sailing, and the final 30% will open 2 days prior to sailing.

If you haven’t done so yet, be sure to visit www.takeaferry.com to begin the reservation process. And the Chamber has posted this link to our Ferry Tips document on our website (in various locations). You can also see it at: https://www.orcasislandchamber.com/Ferry_Tips.pdf

Questions? While the Chamber tries to help where we can, we suggest speaking with Washington State Ferries directly if you have questions. You can dial 511, or 1-888-808-7977.