WHATCOM COUNTY, WA (MyBellinghamNow.com) – It’s going to get more expensive to take the state ferry this fall.

The Washington State Transportation Commission approved a plan to increase fare rates and increase the summer season surcharge at its meeting on Wednesday, Aug. 6.

Starting on Oct. 1, vehicle and passenger fares will both increase by an average of three percent on all state ferry routes. Those fares will rise by another 3% starting in May 2026.

The summer season surcharge is also increasing to 35% for all routes, which aligns with the current rate for the San Juan-Anacortes ferry.

The commission says the price hikes are needed to meet revenue targets set in the state Transportation Budget passed earlier this year.

It comes as Lummi Island ferry fares are set to increase on Aug. 23.