Working Conditions Aboard the Wsf-Suquamish

On September 28, 2025, the 'Suquamish' ferry encountered a critical main engine failure while navigating the Mukilteo-Clinton route. This incident forced the vessel to halt operations in the afternoon, leaving only one ferry to serve the busy route during a peak travel time. The disruption coincided with the return of numerous motorcyclists from the highly popular 42nd Annual Oyster Run, one of the largest motorcycle rallies in the Pacific Northwest. In response to the unexpected mechanical issue, the 'Kitsap' ferry was deployed to take over the route and reestablish the necessary two-vessel service. Meanwhile, the ferry 'Sealth' switched from the Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route to replace the 'Kitsap'. As a result, the Fauntleroy/Vashon/Southworth route transitioned to a two-vessel operation with the 'Kittitas' and the 'Issaquah'. Additionally, the 'Salish' ferry was reassigned from the Port Townsend-Coupeville route to assist on the Triangle route, effectively suspending the two-ship service on the Port Townsend-Coupeville route until May 2026. Following the incident, the 'Suquamish' was relocated to the Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility for urgent main engine repairs, with an expected downtime lasting several weeks.

The 'Suquamish' ferry has successfully completed its repairs just in time to take over the route from the 90-car ferry 'Sealth', which faced disruptions following a crab pot line incident weeks earlier. On the afternoon of June 26, 2024, Washington State Ferries issued a public alert regarding potential impacts on the ferry schedule amidst ongoing complications. Meanwhile, the 'Tokitae' was scheduled for federally mandated maintenance at a shipyard starting June 30. Fortunately, the 'Suquamish' returned from repairs in Everett on June 30, ensuring the continuity of ferry services in the region.