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Historic Plover Foot Ferry Returns July 3
Summer Excursions are almost here!
Please note: service will not begin on Memorial Day Weekend.
The Historic Plover Foot Ferry is getting ready to welcome passengers back aboard for another unforgettable season on the water. This year, ferry service is planned to begin Friday, July 3, giving visitors and locals a classic summer way to travel, sightsee, and enjoy the waterfront.
Planned 2026 Service Schedule
Service is planned for one excursion per hour during operating days.
About the historic Plover
A ride on the MV Plover Foot Passenger Ferry at the Blaine Marina is a popular tourist and local attraction. The Plover is Washington’s oldest foot passenger ferry, operating from Memorial Day to Labor Day weekend.
The Plover is an 11-ton, 32-foot, 17-passenger foot ferry that sails for a one-way excursion cruise leaving Blaine Harbor Marina (Gate 2) and sailing around Semiahmoo Bay and Drayton Habor. The vessel is owned and operated by the City of Blaine, Washington.
The much-awaited return of the Plover holds great significance for Blaine’s tourism industry and the community. The ferry, built in 1944 and crafted from cedar and fir, has long been a beloved attraction, offering visitors and residents alike the opportunity to experience the beauty of Drayton Harbor through its short yet scenic route.
The Plover features a two-person crew commentary on the history and restoration of the ferry. The ferry is certified by the U.S. Coast Guard.
What to see on the Plover
While on your cruise, the 2-person crew is informative on the sights seen. Starting from the Gate 2 dock, you pass through the working harbor to the breakwater to Semiahmoo Bay. Observe soaring eagles, Cormorants, harbor seals, great blue herons, a variety of waterfowl, and views of British Columbia’s Coast Mountains, White Rock, BC and the towering Mt. Baker across Drayton Harbor.
A little Plover history
Built in 1944, the MV Plover is the oldest foot passenger ferry in Washington with the shortest route. The Plover is made of cedar and fir and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Until 1964, the Plover was used to shuttle workers to the Alaska Packers Salmon Cannery on Semiahmoo Spit, now home to Semiahmoo Resort-Spa-Golf. In the late 19th century, the cannery was one of the largest salmon canneries in the world.
Visit the Alaska Packers Association Museum located in Semiahmoo Park on Semiahmoo Spit. Open Thursday to Sunday through Labor Day 1 PM to 5 PM.
Plover Stats
Year Built: 1944
Overall Length: 32 feet
Beam: 9’7″
Draft: 5 feet
Net Tonnage: 11 tons
Hull Construction: 11/4 “x4″ clear vertical grain fir and yellow cedar planking laid over 11/2″ x21/2″ bent white oak frames 10” on center.
English Ford, six-cylinder diesel.
Capacity” 17 passengers, 2-crew
PHOTO/RuthLauman
Docking Location:
RIDE THE PLOVER WEEKENDS:
Starting July 3, 2026
Fri, Sat & Sun: Hours vary, check ticketing App.
Blaine Boating Center Visitor’s Dock
235 Marine Dr. Blaine
Departs on the hour from the Blaine Visitor’s Dock, Gate II at the Blaine Boating Center, Gate 2.
MAP
Plover Ferry Inquries:
Email: plover1944@gmail.com or call 360-220-1936.
Play Video about Riding the Plover Ferry to Blaine Marina in Blaine WA
GATEWAY TO THE GAMES