The last new Washington State Ferries vessel, the Suquamish, began construction in 2015 and was delivered in 2018.
Gov. Bob Ferguson on Wednesday marked the start of construction on Washington's first new ferry in 11 years and said the state is exercising an option for a third vessel as part of a broader effort to rebuild the ferry system.
Eastern Shipbuilding Group began work on the first of three 160-vehicle hybrid-electric ferries at its shipyard in Panama City, Florida, according to Ferguson's office. The governor had planned to attend the ceremonial steel-cutting but canceled his trip because of Washington's wildfires.
Ferguson said the new boats are a key part of improving service in a system he described as aging and stretched thin.
State officials said Washington had 25 ferries in 2015, but by 2025, it was down to 21 after vessel retirements. The state has 11 ferries more than 40 years old and one that's 67.
The state originally contracted with Eastern Shipbuilding Group to build two ferries and left open an option for a third. Ferguson said Wednesday he is now moving forward with that third vessel as well.
The governor's office said Eastern Shipbuilding Group's bid came in more than 30% below the competing proposal from a Washington state bidder. The office said that decision saved taxpayers about $360 million.
Under the contract, Eastern Shipbuilding Group will build the three ferries for $714.5 million. With owner-furnished equipment, construction management, crew training and contingency costs included, the total price for three vessels comes to $1.15 billion, according to the governor's office. That is below the $1.3 billion the Legislature set aside for the project.
Officials said Eastern Shipbuilding Group is scheduled to deliver the first ferry in 2030, followed by the second in 2031 and the third in 2032.
The last new Washington State Ferries vessel, the Suquamish, began construction in 2015 and was delivered in 2018.
