Washington State Ferries Director of Marine Operations Traci Brewer-Rogstad announced that M/V Klickitat went into Todd Shipyard’s drydock this afternoon, ahead of schedule.
The Klickitat was removed from service on the Port Townsend-Keystone route on Monday after a crack in the hull plating was detected. The ferry run is temporarily closed until the vessel can be repaired.
“Todd Shipyard was able to slip us in between two other drydock customers, which we really appreciate,” says Ms. Brewer-Rogstad. “This allows us to examine and correct the crack in the hull plating that has caused the disruption to our ferry service on the Port Townsend/Keystone route.
The length of time the vessel needs in drydock cannot be determined until the vessel hull is completely inspected and the amount of repairs needed is determined. WSF and the U.S. Coast Guard work together in such situations with the shared concern of protecting the safety of the vessel and its passengers.
“We know that the suspension of the run is a hardship and an inconvenience to many commuters, businesses, tourists and truckers,” added Ms. Brewer-Rogstad, “We are hopeful to get the Klickitat repaired and operating on the route as quickly as possible. We are also continuing to pursue other short-term service options as alternatives, if necessary“.
“Returning service to the Port Townsend/Keystone route remains a high priority,” continues Ms. Brewer-Rogstad. “We are working with the shipyard and the Coast Guard to make sure when the vessel returns to service it does do so with everyone’s complete confidence as to its seaworthiness.”