The Washington State Ferries offers the following tips for travel this upcoming Fourth of July weekend.

Regular ferry customers know to travel early or late to avoid the longest waits when headed westbound for a long weekend. The return trip depends on what day customers plan to travel. On Monday, July 4, WSF recommends traveling before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m. On Tuesday, July 5, WSF encourages customers who have flexibility in their schedules to travel after the morning commute.

The heaviest traffic is expected westbound Thursday, June 30, and Friday, July 1, and eastbound Tuesday, July 5. Sailing schedules will vary by route. Customers should check the ferries’ website for traffic updates.

Anacortes/San Juan Islands

The annual Lopez Island fireworks display will attract a large crowd on Monday, July 4. Travelers should plan for delays as traffic will be heavy. WSF encourages customers to walk on instead of taking their vehicles. Paid parking is available at the Anacortes Terminal. The Anacortes/San Juan Islands route will operate on its regular summer sailing schedule throughout the long weekend.

WSF also reminds ferry customers that illegal fireworks cannot be transported on Washington state ferries. This includes bottle rockets, firecrackers, missiles, rockets, chasers and salutes. If a Washington State Patrol explosive detection canine detects a vehicle carrying illegal fireworks, they will be confiscated.

For more ferry system information, please visit www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries.