Navigating the New Colman Dock: A Renter's Guide to Boarding Bainbridge and Bremerton Ferries
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Transit & Efficiency3 min read2026-06-24

Navigating the New Colman Dock: A Renter's Guide to Boarding Bainbridge and Bremerton Ferries

Discover how to navigate the newly rebuilt Seattle Ferry Terminal, avoiding downtown construction bottlenecks and safely boarding Bainbridge and Bremerton ferries with your rental car.

As a renter in Seattle, navigating the newly rebuilt Colman Dock can be a daunting task, especially with the ongoing downtown construction. However, with this step-by-step guide, you'll be able to access the vehicle holding lanes from Alaskan Way, buy tickets, and safely queue for the Bainbridge and Bremerton ferries without getting caught in the chaos.

Step 1: Accessing the Vehicle Holding Lanes from Alaskan Way

To start, head east on Alaskan Way toward the waterfront. As you approach the Colman Dock, you'll notice a series of signs directing you to the vehicle holding lanes. Follow these signs and turn left onto the designated lane, which will take you to the ticketing area.

Step 2: Buying Tickets and Queueing

Once you've reached the ticketing area, you can purchase your tickets for the Bainbridge or Bremerton ferry. Be sure to have your rental car information and payment method ready. After buying your tickets, proceed to the designated queueing area, where you'll wait for your ferry to arrive.

Step 3: Safely Boarding the Ferry

When it's time to board the ferry, follow the signs and instructions from the ferry staff. Make sure to have your ticket and rental car information ready for inspection. As you drive onto the ferry, be mindful of the loading and unloading procedures to ensure a safe and smooth journey.

By following these simple steps, you'll be able to navigate the new Colman Dock with ease and enjoy a stress-free journey to Bainbridge or Bremerton. Remember to plan ahead, check for construction updates, and arrive early to avoid any delays.

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