Washington State Ferries Converts Vessel Wenatchee to Hybrid-Electric Power
The 30-year-old Washington State Ferries vessel Wenatchee, one of the state’s largest ferries, has undergone a remarkable transformation as it has been converted to hybrid-electric power. This major upgrade is set to be completed in time for the vessel to resume operations this summer.
Conversion Process
The extensive conversion work on the Wenatchee included:
- Removing two of the four diesel generators
- Constructing two new battery rooms and equipping them with 864 battery modules
- Installing new controls and thousands of feet of electric and fiber optic cable
- Painting a significant portion of the ferry’s exterior
- Replacing vinyl on some seats
- Deep cleaning the vessel
Sea trials and crew training are currently ongoing at Vigor Shipyard. Following this, the Wenatchee will be transferred to Eagle Harbor Shipyard on Bainbridge Island for final preparations before entering service. The ferry’s crew will undergo further training and conduct additional sea trials to ensure compliance with U.S. Coast Guard regulations.
Enhanced Service
Once operational, the Wenatchee will serve the Seattle/Bainbridge route, catering to the transportation needs of millions of passengers. The conversion of this vessel is part of Washington State Ferries’ broader efforts to modernize its aging fleet and enhance service reliability.
In 2024, Washington State Ferries transported over 19 million passengers, highlighting the critical role the ferry system plays in the region’s transportation network. By modernizing existing vessels and introducing new hybrid-electric ferries, the agency aims to improve efficiency and sustainability while meeting growing demand.
Future Plans
Looking ahead, Washington State Ferries has ambitious plans to modernize six additional ferries and construct 16 new vessels by 2040. These new ferries will feature state-of-the-art propulsion and operating systems, hybrid-electric power capabilities, and other cutting-edge technologies designed to enhance performance and passenger experience.
The first of these new ferries is expected to be in service by 2029, marking a significant milestone in the agency’s ongoing efforts to ensure a reliable and efficient ferry service for residents and visitors alike.