Starting the Memorial Day weekend, furry companions can travel with their owners in some passenger areas of Washington State Ferries. The agency rolled out the new rule just in time for the peak season — over the holiday weekend more than 350,000 passengers were expected, so dogs faced a real test of behavior in crowded conditions.
A six-week transition period will run through July 1, during which passengers will be introduced to the new rules. By then, ferries will have signs marking pet areas and special stations for cleaning up after animals. Pets are allowed on vehicle decks, open decks, and in designated spots inside passenger cabins located across from the galley. They may not enter the galley area, be placed on passenger seats or tables, or remain in the cabin on the galley side.
The new policy follows a pilot program launched last August. As Deputy State Transportation Secretary for Ferries Steve Neevi noted, staff and passenger opinions were divided: some supported the experiment, while others raised concerns about cleanliness, safety, and control. The final rule aims for a compromise by permitting animals in certain areas but with clear restrictions. Owners are required to clean up after their pets, and crew may require an animal to be moved to an open deck in cases of poor behavior. Service dogs are allowed in all areas, while livestock must remain in special enclosures — you can’t bring a cow onto a passenger deck.
Based on: Pets are officially allowed inside Washington State Ferries