Point Defiance Boat Launch: Open Or Closed?

The Point Defiance Park Boat Launch is open year-round from sunrise to sunset. It is an 8-lane launch ramp located next to the Vashon Ferry Terminal at Point Defiance Park and is the largest launch facility in the South Sound.

Point Defiance Park Boat Launch is open year-round

The Point Defiance Park Boat Launch is open and accessible all year round, from sunrise to sunset. Located next to the Vashon Ferry Terminal, it is the largest launch facility in the South Sound, with an impressive 8-lane launch ramp and nice docks.

With a convenient self-pay station that accepts VISA, MasterCard, and Discover Card, launching your boat is a breeze. The fees vary depending on the season and the size of your boat. From May 1st to September 30th, during the peak season, the launch fee is $14, while it drops to $11 during the off-season, from October 1st to April 30th. If you plan to visit frequently, an annual pass valid from April 1st to March 31st is available for $275.

For those with smaller, non-trailered human-powered craft, such as kayaks, the fee is $6.50. It's important to note that the gate at the top of the roundabout that provides access to the boat launch opens early at 4:30 am.

Point Defiance Park Boat Launch offers a seamless experience for boaters, with attendants during peak months to ensure your launch goes smoothly. So whether you're a seasoned boater or just starting out, you can take advantage of this launch facility any time of the year and explore the surrounding waters of Point Defiance.

Launch fees vary by season and vessel type

The Point Defiance Park Boat Launch is open all year round from sunrise to sunset. It is the largest launch facility in the South Sound, with an eight-lane launch ramp located next to the Vashon Ferry Terminal at Point Defiance Park.

For non-trailered human-powered craft, such as kayaks, the fee is $6.50. For boats under 19 feet, the fee is $16. The fee increases to $21.50 for boats between 19 and 29 feet, and to $26.75 for boats over 30 feet.

The self-pay station accepts exact cash payments, as well as VISA, MasterCard, and Discover Card. It is important to note that prices are subject to change.

The launch facility is the largest in South Sound

The Point Defiance Park Boat Launch is open all year round from sunrise to sunset. Located next to the Vashon Ferry Terminal, it is the largest launch facility in the South Sound. It has eight lanes with docks and a ramp. The facility is easily accessible via the gate at the top of the roundabout, which opens at 4:30 am.

The Point Defiance Launch Ramp is a popular entry point for boaters in the Pacific Northwest. It is a convenient access point to a number of destinations in Canada, including Bedwell Harbour and Cormorant Island, as well as locations in the US, such as Burton, Vashon Island, and Breakwater Marina.

The launch fees vary depending on the season and the size of the boat. During the peak season, from May 1 to September 30, the fee is $14, while in the off-season, from October 1 to April 30, it is $11. There is also an annual pass available for $275, valid from April 1 to March 31 each year. For non-trailered human-powered craft, the fee is $6.50.

In addition to the launch fees, there is a parking fee for those using the launch. Overnight parking is available for $10 per day or $300 per year. Payments can be made at the self-pay station, which accepts VISA, MasterCard, and Discover Card. It is important to note that the launch facility does not accept cash payments.

The Point Defiance Park Boat Launch is a convenient and accessible option for boaters in the South Sound area, offering a smooth launch experience with the assistance of attendants during peak months.

The launch is located next to the Vashon Ferry Terminal

The Point Defiance Park Boat Launch is located next to the Vashon Ferry Terminal. It is open year-round from sunrise to sunset and is the largest launch facility in the South Sound. With eight lanes and nice docks, it provides easy access for boaters. The launch is positioned at coordinates 47° 18' 20.32" N, 122° 30' 49.38" W, and it is close to the Des Moines Marina and Vashon Island Ferry.

The Point Defiance Park Boat Launch offers convenient access to the water for a range of vessels. It accommodates boats of various sizes, with fees depending on the length of the boat. During peak months, attendants are available to ensure a smooth launch experience. The launch facility also includes a self-pay station that accepts VISA, MasterCard, and Discover Card. Cash payments are not accepted.

For those utilising the launch, parking is available nearby. The parking rates are $10 for overnight daily parking and $300 for an overnight parking annual pass. Additionally, there are different fees for different types of boats, with human-powered vessels costing $7.50 and boats under 19' priced at $16.

The Point Defiance Park Boat Launch, situated next to the Vashon Ferry Terminal, offers a convenient and well-equipped facility for boaters. With its year-round accessibility, ample parking, and range of fees, it serves as a hub for boating activities in the area. The launch's proximity to the ferry terminal and its position in Point Defiance Park make it a strategic location for boaters in the South Sound region.

Parking is available for those using the launch

The Point Defiance Park Boat Launch is open all year round from sunrise to sunset. It is the largest launch facility in the South Sound, with an eight-lane launch ramp located next to the Vashon Ferry Terminal at Point Defiance Park.

The Point Defiance Park Boat Launch has a self-pay station that accepts VISA, MasterCard, and Discover Card. Cash is not accepted. During peak months, attendants are on hand to ensure a smooth launch experience.

For those looking for a more permanent option, memberships are available at Metro Parks Tacoma, which offers additional benefits and amenities.

Frequently asked questions