Harbor Hopper Ferry Service Pilot Between Everett and South Whidbey Launching in June

All aboard! The Port of Everett, Port of South Whidbey and Hat Island Community Association have partnered up to launch Harbor Hopper – a new summer pilot program offering the first-ever seasonal passenger-only ferry connection between Everett and Langley, starting June 4th.

The Harbor Hopper, made possible in part by Community Connector sponsor Whidbey Telecom, provides a unique walk-on ferry service option between the two port cities aboard the 45-passenger Hat Island Ferry.

Riders can choose from two Everett-bound and two Langley-bound sailings each Thursday and Saturday from June 4th through August 29th (except July 2nd & 4th). Click here to view the full schedule. Fares range from $10 – $12 one-way or $16 – $20 roundtrip. Each trip lasts approximately 30 – 45 minutes.

This program is designed with tourism trips in mind, providing area residents and regional visitors a car-free option to travel between Snohomish County and Whidbey Island. Now spontaneous day trips, weekend getaways or longer summer stays on either side of the water are just a hop across the harbor.

Operated by the Hat Island Ferry, the Harbor Hopper will offer two roundtrip sailings on select Thursdays and Saturdays from June 4 – Aug. 29, 2026, in the morning and evening. Each trip lasts approximately 30 minutes and has capacity for 45 passengers.

While this port partnership is intended to support regional tourism, economic activity and enhanced public access during this trial run in 2026, it’s will also provide an opportunity to test demand and explore potential to establish passenger-only ferry service between the two port districts into the future.

 “Launching Harbor Hopper opens up a whole new kind of visitor experience at our two waterfront destinations,” said Catherine Soper, Port of Everett Chief of Business Development and Tourism.

“This family-friendly service will make it easier than ever to travel between our shores for a quick day trip or an extended visit and is programmed around top events and attractions this summer, whether you’re looking for waterfront dining, outdoor summer concerts and festivals, including the World Cup Waterfront Watch Parties at Everett’s Fan Zone, local shops and art, or simply, a change of pace. It’s a fun, accessible way to connect our communities.”

The Harbor Hopper pilot program comes as the Port of Everett’s Waterfront Place continues to evolve as a vibrant destination. Now boasting 17 restaurants, two hotels, waterfront housing, parks, plazas, beaches and 90+ annual events, and a FREE waterfront shuttle to explore it all with ease, it marked 1.8+ million annual site visits in 2025.

That number is expected to grow as more people discover all Waterfront Place has to offer, including the influx of global visitors coming to the Everett Fan Zone Waterfront Watch Parties for FIFA World Cup on June 11, 12, 18, and 19.

The Harbor Hopper will launch from the Port of South Whidbey Harbor at Langley’s J Dock, seen here on the left side of the photo.

“For years our ports have talked about a service that could connect our two communities and we are very excited for what this service will provide for both of our destinations” said Jim Pivarnik, Executive Director Port of South Whidbey.

Langley, Washington, is just a short walk or golf cart ride up from the harbor and is known as the “Village by the Sea.” Visitors enjoy breathtaking views of Saratoga Passage and the Cascade mountains, and wildlife like orcas, bald eagles, gray whales, and more.

Discover waterfront parks and beaches, forested hiking trails, galleries and restaurants, gift shops, wineries, boutiques, theater, and community events. As a certified Washington State Creative District, Langley Creates is focused on growing the community’s creative economy by supporting and enlarging what already exists in this seaside village.

Downtown Everett – boasting restaurants and coffee shops, thriving music scene, retail shops and more – is just a short walk by foot via the Grand Avenue Park Bridge or a quick ride away via public transit or rideshare options.