EVERETT — The Jetty Island ferry will return for summer beachgoers Friday.
The 2-mile-long breakwater just off the shore of Everett boasts the longest sandy beach in the Puget Sound and welcomes more than 50,000 visitors every year. The island is open to visitors year-round by personal watercraft, but the foot ferry is only open during Jetty Island Days, this year from July 5 to Sept. 1.
“It’s like a world away,” said Misty Terry, on a walk Friday at Jetty Landing Park. “It’s so close but so far.”
The ferry departs from the port’s Jetty Landing Park and is available by reservation only. The ferry service will be available from 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m. on Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays, as well as 10 a.m. to 6:45 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays. The ride itself is 10 minutes.
Tickets are $3 on Wednesday and Thursday and $5 on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Children age 2 and under ride for free, but still require a reservation.
Parking is available at Jetty Landing Park for free up to two hours. Eight-hour parking is available at a discounted rate of $2 with a ferry reservation.
Reservations can be made here.
“The Port’s Jetty Island is a top Snohomish County destination and ‘must-do’ summer excursion for locals and visitors alike,” said Catherine Soper, the Port of Everett’s director of external affairs & business development.
Those who have attended before suggested coming prepared.
“Make sure to take snacks and water,” Terry advised.
“Plan ahead,” said Jeremy Lerond, who visited the island last year. “Once you’ve forgot something in your car, you can’t get back on the ferry.”
The city has several community activities planned such as a sandcastle competition, a kite day, nature walks, smores nights, treasure hunts, puppet shows, nature walks, and more. The complete event calendar has not been released. Additionally, the Port of Everett and Visit Everett are adding a 10-foot-tall Adirondack chair for photo ops. More information about events can be found at everettwa.gov/149/Parks-Community-Services
“We’re so proud to partner with the Port of Everett and Snohomish County to keep the Jetty Island Days program going,” Mayor Cassie Franklin said in a written statement. “This partnership provides opportunities for families from throughout our region to enjoy Jetty Island’s pristine beaches, learn about the unique environment and, most importantly, have fun!”
The Port of Everett advises caution when walking on exposed mud, as the burrowing of ghost shrimp may cause unexpected sinking at low tides.
Connor Zamora: 425-339-3037; connor.zamora@heraldnet.com; Twitter: @cgzamora02.
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