Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Wsf-Chetzemoka

On October 10, 2021, the ferry 'Chetzemoka' was forced to suspend operations on its route connecting Tahlequah and Point Defiance due to generator complications. The vessel experienced these technical difficulties while docked in Tacoma. As of October 11, the 'Chetzemoka' remains out of service, awaiting repairs to resolve the generator issues.

On December 4, 2016, an accident occurred near Vashon Island when the recreational vessel "Nap Tyme" collided with the Washington State ferry "Chetzemoka." At the time of the incident, the operator of the pleasure boat was reportedly below deck, leading to an unexpected crossing in front of the ferry. The crew of the "Chetzemoka" took all necessary precautions, signaling the approaching vessel with multiple horn blasts and successfully slowing down almost to a standstill to avoid a more serious impact. Fortunately, no injuries were reported as a result of the collision. The incident caused a temporary setback for ferry operations, with the "Chetzemoka" delayed for approximately 30 minutes while the Coast Guard conducted assessments and cleared both vessels for continued travel. The ferry was en route from Point Defiance to Vashon Island during the incident. For further details and video coverage of the incident, you can visit the Seattle Times at this link: http://www.seattletimes.com/seattle-news/transportation/watch-boat-called-nap-tyme-collides-with-washington-state-ferry-near-vashon-island/

The iconic ferry, the 'Chetzemoka', is making a triumphant return to the Port Townsend-Coupeville route, reinstating the much-needed two-ferry service starting on June 19. Washington State Ferries confirmed on June 16 that the 'Chetzemoka' successfully passed its inspection and will transition from the Point Defiance–Tahlequah route to the PT-Coupeville route by June 19. This announcement comes as the 'Kennewick' faces a temporary withdrawal from service. On June 15, the ferry was taken out of operation due to significant wear and tear on its rudders, and with the shipyard at Dakota Creek Yard in Anacortes booked until July 5, it may not return to active duty until July 15. The 'Kennewick', like its sister ship 'Salish', requires essential rudder maintenance. The 'Salish' was recently back in service on May 27 after undergoing an extended repair period of 21 days due to worn bushings and pins on its rudders identified during a routine dive inspection. The 'Kennewick' was also pulled from service when a dive inspection uncovered similar issues with its rudder components. These parts are deteriorating more rapidly than anticipated. In response, Washington State Ferries is collaborating with the rudder manufacturer based in Germany to investigate the cause of this premature wear. Each rudder repair incurs an estimated cost of approximately $200,000, highlighting the significant maintenance challenges faced by the fleet.