Date:
Thursday, February 07, 2008
Contact:
Marta Coursey, Communications Director, (206) 515-3918
SEATTLE - Beginning Saturday, February 9, the Steilacoom II will begin service on the Port Townsend/Keystone route. Washington State Ferries (WSF) is leasing the Steilacoom II from Pierce County. The ferry carries 50-cars and 300 total passengers and will replace the service provided by the passenger-only vessel Snohomish.
WSF crews have trained thoroughly on the Steilacoom II over the past week to gain experience operating the vessel, familiarize themselves with vessel equipment and perform routine safety drills. The U.S Coast Guard has issued a Certificate of Inspection certifying the vessel for service. After successfully testing the vessel in different weather conditions and practicing landings at the Port Townsend and Keystone terminals, WSF determined that the vessel was ready for operation.
"We have been working hard to return vehicle ferry service to the Port Townsend/Keystone route as soon as possible," said Secretary of Transportation Paula Hammond. "We are very pleased to announce that that route will now be back to its full regular winter service levels."
Vehicle service on the Port Townsend/Keystone route has been shut down since Nov. 20, 2007, when Secretary Hammond ordered the Steel Electric class vessels pulled from service for safety reasons.
Service is scheduled to begin with a 6:30 a.m. departure from Port Townsend. The Steilacoom II will operate on the regular Winter Schedule, with sailings leaving each terminal approximately every 90 minutes. Drivers of vehicles over 6,000 gross vehicle weight are encouraged to reserve space for a particular sailing by calling 1-888-808-7977, as space for large vehicles is limited.
Especially during winter months, customers can expect cancellations during heavy weather. Customers are encouraged to check WSF's web site for ferry schedules and updates on service at http://www.wsdot.wa.gov/ferries/ or call 1-888-808-7977. Service and weather cancellations are updated regularly.
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