City of Des Moines announces pilot project for ferry to Seattle

The City of Des Moines is launching a fast ferry service this summer.

The city announced the two-month pilot project, which aims to test the viability of a passenger-only ferry from Des Moines to Seattle’s Bell Harbor Marina.

This ferry, the Chilkat Express, should first set sail Aug. 10 and will run through Oct. 9.

The boat will make four trips a day Wednesday through Sunday, each trip is about 40 minutes long.

Des Moines officials say it will depart at 10 a.m., noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Southbound trips will leave Seattle at 11 a.m., 1 p.m., 3 p.m., and 5 p.m.

Riders will not pay the first week but afterward will spend $10 each way. Seniors and military members will pay $5 and children under 13 will remain free.