Date:
Thursday, August 23, 2007
Contact:
Jayne Davis, Regional Operations Manager, 206-264-3591
(SEATTLE) The 34-car Hiyu, the smallest ferry in the Washington State Ferries (WSF) fleet, is operating on the Point Defiance-Tahlequah route while the route's regular vessel, the Rhododendron, is out for repair. This route connects Tacoma with the south end of Vashon Island. WSF expects to return the Rhododendron to service before Labor Day weekend.
Because the Hiyu carries fewer vehicles than the Rhododendron, travelers can expect delays this weekend and during commute periods. In addition, WSF expects over 300 cyclists participating in the Bicycle Alliance of Washington's "Rhapsody Ride" to travel from Point Defiance to Tahlequah on the early morning sailings on Saturday.
"We understand that more people travel this route during summer weekends and we are trying to do everything we can to minimize any inconvenience to our customers," said Steve Rodgers, WSF Director of Operations. "We are working hard to return the Rhododendron to service as soon as possible and we hope our customers can still enjoy their weekend travels."
With the smaller Hiyu on this route, there may be delays and some sailings will sell out earlier than usual. WSF urges travelers to adjust their plans accordingly and use other ferry routes if they have to travel to Vashon Island.
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