Historic Washington Elwha Ferry Sold for $100K to Become Floating Office
On January 30, 2025, the historic Elwha ferry, a recognizable fixture of Washington State Ferries since its launch in 1968, was sold for $100,000 to Everett Ship Repair. This iconic vessel is set to undergo a transformation, being repurposed into a floating office and warehouse space at the shipyard, as announced by the Washington State Department of Transportation.
Relocation Process Underway
A tugboat from Western Towboat Co. is scheduled to arrive at Bainbridge Island terminal to facilitate the ferry’s relocation. The public can monitor the tugboat Mariner’s progress in real time, allowing enthusiasts to follow this significant transition closely.
A Legacy of Service
Steve Nevey, Assistant Secretary of Washington State Ferries, expressed enthusiasm about the ferry’s new chapter. “The Elwha has been part of Washington State Ferry history since 1968, and we’re excited to see one of our ferries with so much history and memories for millions of passengers being repurposed locally,” he stated. While the Elwha will no longer serve its traditional role, Nevey is confident that it will be well cared for at the local shipyard.
Historical Significance
The Elwha, which has the capacity to carry 144 cars, was one of four Super-class ferries constructed in the mid-1960s. For decades, it primarily operated on the Anacortes to Friday Harbor to Sidney, British Columbia route before being retired in April 2020. Currently, two other Super-class ferries, Kaleetan and Yakima, remain in service.
Future Plans for the Fleet
In an effort to optimize operations, Washington State Ferries is planning to sell and transfer two additional retired vessels, Klahowya and Hyak. This will create more dock space at the Eagle Harbor Maintenance Facility, facilitating better maintenance for its current fleet.
As a division of the Washington State Department of Transportation, Washington State Ferries operates the largest ferry system in the United States, serving millions of passengers each year and navigating through some of the most breathtaking waterways in the nation.
