Living in Seattle, there are days when the things you see every day feel special.

It has been 5 years since I moved to Seattle, and I still sometimes feel excited like a tourist. One of those things is the "Ferry".

The Seattle Ferry is not just a means of transportation. It is almost a 'train on the sea' and a 'floating observation deck'.

Although classified as public transport, it is essentially a means of travel that turns a scene from a romantic movie into reality. Inside, people drink coffee, read books, and some even propose.

The most famous departure point is Colman Dock (Pier 52) in downtown Seattle. When you arrive here, it is always crowded, with half of the people being commuters heading home and the others looking to momentarily escape the weight of daily life and cross the sea.

The most popular route is the ferry to Bainbridge Island. It takes about 40 minutes, and the view as soon as you board is breathtaking. The city gradually fades away, replaced by the sea, mountains, and the faint outline of Mount Rainier.

Of course, the Seattle Ferry does not only carry people. It can also transport SUVs, trucks, and motorcycles. When you drive and wait in line, the staff kindly directs you with "lane 3, please!".

You can stay in your car during the journey, but most people go up to the deck. Why? For the refreshing sea breeze and the scenery.

Fares vary depending on distance and whether you have a vehicle. For example, on the Bainbridge route, foot passengers pay about $9 to $10, while vehicles + drivers pay about $18 to $20. This is not a round-trip fare; charges apply only when leaving Seattle. It's a bit strange, but thankfully, that's the way it is in Washington State.

Fun Tips

• Dogs are allowed: As long as they are on a leash, you can bring your dog along.

• There's a café: Inside, there's a snack bar where you can buy hot dogs, coffee, and cookies. Prices are a bit high, but think of it as a 'ferry premium'.

• Winter sunsets are amazing: If you take the ferry around 4 PM, the city's backdrop and the sunset create a movie-like scene. Highly recommended for dates.

Who do I recommend it to?

• Stressed office workers: Walking in the sea breeze for 40 minutes is surprisingly healing.

• Couples: You know it without saying. It's truly romantic.

• Photography enthusiasts: Capturing the Seattle skyline from the ferry is an Instagram masterpiece.

• Families with kids: Just the experience of taking a boat is a grand adventure for children.

I sometimes take the ferry to Bainbridge after work without thinking, grab a Starbucks, and come back.

The Seattle Ferry is not just a means of transportation; for me, it is a passage to momentarily 'escape from daily life'.

If you have the time, I hope you try it too. It's one of the best ways to see Seattle at its most beautiful.