2019 Ferry Haul Out Dates Announced
The Guemes Island Ferry is scheduled to be out of service February 24 through March 18, 2019 for a haul out and maintenance period and required US Coast Guard dry dock credit. During the ferry shut down, passenger-only service will be provided by Arrow Launch Service. In addition, Skagit Transit will provide shuttle service on Guemes Island starting February 24. The ferry is tentatively scheduled to return to service on March 19, 2019.
On October 8, 2018, Skagit County received a total of four bids for the work. Foss Maritime Company, in Seattle, WA was the low bidder, with a bid of $568,850.00. If you are interested, you view the bid results on our website. The work to be performed by the shipyard includes routine maintenance items as well as the removal and replacement of one outdrive, transmissions, drivelines, propellers and emergency fire pumps. The entire car deck coating will be completely removed and renewed, and the hull will be recoated.
Separate from the work the shipyard will perform will be an in-depth marine survey to include ultrasonic inspection of the vessel’s hull, car deck, framing and tanks. We will be working with a marine engineer, marine surveyor and specialized inspection services to determine 1) a maintenance plan for the remaining service life of the Guemes and 2) the required repower year should the ferry replacement project be delayed for any reason.
More information about the haul out and associated work will be published later this year. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me.
Sincerely,
Captain Rachel Rowe
Ferry Operations Division Manager
Skagit County Public Works
Anacortes Terminal – 500 I Ave. Anacortes, WA 98221
Ferry Office: (360) 293-6433 Cell: (360) 333-1496
Direct Line: (360) 416-1466 Fax: (360) 293-1899