Washington State Ferries

‘We're at a breaking point.’ Washington ferry workers demand 20% raise

Unionized ferry workers who keep the state’s ailing fleet afloat are calling for higher pay and better staffing. On Tuesday morning, over 30 engineers and oilers stood in front of the bustling downtown Seattle ferry terminal, demanding the state to invest more money into jobs.

Government

A sneak peek at Washington's planned hybrid electric ferries

The state put five new ferries out to bid this week. That means shipyards may compete for the right to build them. A look through the plans reveals similarities to the old ferries, new details, and big changes under the hood.

Government

Short on staff and ships, can Washington's new ferry chief navigate out of troubled waters?

Steve Nevey said his job is to take the state’s beleaguered ferry system into the post-pandemic future. Washington State Ferries has struggled for years to maintain reliable service with broken boats and staff shortages.

Bainbridge Island residents show new optimism and resolve to revive Washington's ferries

For the first time in many years, Washington state’s ferry system operations are fully funded — but there’s still work to do. That’s what people heard at a “Fix our Ferries Town Hall” on Bainbridge Island over the weekend.

Could a broken WA ferry system help cities grow more sustainably?

Unreliable state ferries have left passengers in waterfront communities stranded. Replacement boats are still at least four years away. Meanwhile, county-run fleets of smaller, faster foot-ferries are preparing to expand, with help from the state.

Booming: Tiny ferries, stripper bill of rights, movie quiz

Could a broken ferry system help fix our cities?

Government

Letters to Inslee: More passenger-only ferries could be among solutions to Washington ferry woes

Government

Washington's ferry system has a trust problem

Officially, the Washington State Ferries had a 99% reliability rating in January. But in waterfront communities hurt by too few boats and ferry-run cancellations, people remain skeptical. During the legislative session, elected leaders are working to address the problem.

Washington State Ferries confirms passenger fears: Service disruptions will continue for years

A perfect storm of high demand for ferry services, crew shortages, and an aging fleet means Washington ferry passengers will continue to see limited sailings and frequent cancellations in the coming years.