You may choose different ways to cross the United States-Canada border. However, the best United States-Canada border route is not by land. It is by sea. So, take the Washington State ferry. Take it between Sydney, BC and Anacortes, Washington. You may need more time. But, relax. Put your smart phone down. Enjoy the scenery. And, enrich your soul.
Best United States-Canada Border Route is by Sea
First, plan ahead. The route is summer-only. Consequently, check the ferry schedule.

Route Tips
Here are basic tips to ensure a great experience.
- If you are driving, make a ferry reservation. This is a popular route. So, don’t take chances with standby.
- Bring food or stalk the chowder line. Hungry ferry passengers snap up galley food! Because hunger pangs struck us, I had to stalk the chowder line until they served a new batch.
- Bring your camera. You pass gorgeous scenery. You may even see a whale. Furthermore, if you have a DSLR, bring your zoom lens.
- Be on deck for the Friday Harbor passenger drop. Because, you get great photo opportunities.
- Enjoy the fresh air. Sea air is the best. However, it can be brisk. Perhaps bracing. Bring a jacket.


Alternative Trips
Sailing from Anacortes to Friday Harbor, and back, has advantages. Park your car at Anacortes. Then, walk on the ferry. Additionally, you do not need reservations. Numerous restaurants are walkable from the Friday Harbor dock. And, you avoid the car lines loading and unloading the ferry. Probably, three hours is sufficient to get a flavor for the town.
Prepared for Beauty Addiction
This trip can cause a happy problem. Because, you will see amazing beauty. Consequently, you may struggle to return home. Or, return to your daily grind.
Related Trips
Finally, if you are still hungry for this type of experience see Nanaimo Natural Gateway.