Ferry system says bye-bye to state's smallest ferry

Washington State Ferries is officially announcing the retirement of the state’s smallest ferry after nearly 50 years of carting cars and people across the Puget Sound.

"Population growth in the Puget Sound region and greater demand for ferries means the ferry system has outgrown the Hiyu," said a Washington State Ferries news release this week.

The roughly 160-foot-long ferry was built in 1967. It has room for just 199 passengers and 34 vehicles.

WSDOT said the tiny vessel has high maintenance costs and lacks access for persons with disabilities.

According to its vessel page, the ferry also lacks a bathroom.

WSOT also said the introduction of the Olympic Class vessels – two in service and two more under construction – has strong-armed the vessel into retirement.

Washington State Ferries will be selling the vessel later this year.

The Hiyu’s last sailing date was July 23, 2015.

Cox Media Group