Washington State Ferries has published its latest Origin-Destination Travel Survey.
The ferry survey shows a slow shift toward more trips for recreational or shopping purposes.
The survey asked ferry passengers about their typical routes, how they get to and from the ferry terminal, and the purpose of their trips.
Some of the highlights:
The number of passengers boarding ferries by automobile decreased, while riders walking or biking on to ferries increased.
Ferry system riders are getting older. The average age has increased from 42 in 1993 to 49 in 2013.
About 18% of passengers are retired and 14% expect to retire within 5 years.
There appears to be a slow shift toward more recreational and shopping trips and a reduction in the frequency of commuter trips.
Overall ridership has declined since 1999 due to rising fares, service reductions, an aging population, more people telecommuting, and other factors.
Washington State Ferries conducts origin-destination surveys every six to seven years to track the travel patterns of passengers and help inform planning for the ferry system.
