Peninsula Daily News news sources
The future Port Townsend ferry MV Chetzemoka began sea trials today, giving Puget Sound residents a glimpse of Washington State Ferries’ first vessel of the 21st century.
The 64-car ferry left the Everett shipyard where it was outfitted and started its engines for the first time.
Tom Perrine of Todd Shipyards in Seattle where it was built told The Daily Herald of Everett it’s a big moment to see the vessel under its own power.
Contractor Todd Pacific Shipyards is required to conduct sea trials to demonstrate the vessel to U.S. Coast Guard and state Department of Transportation Ferries Division, which Washington State Ferries is formally know as, before the state accepts delivery of the vessel.
The sea trials team is comprised of a master and crew hired by Todd with its Test and Trials Department. The sea trials must be conducted away from other marine traffic to complete the demonstrations efficiently and without interference from other vessels.
Later this month, state ferries crews will begin operational training and familiarization with the Chetzemoka on the Port Townsend/Keystone route in preparation for the vessel to begin service in late August, with its debut and ceremonial introduction with Gov. Chris Gregoire and other dignitaries Aug. 28.
