
MV Hiyu's transformation into an event venue was a significant undertaking. The ship's original purpose was as a ferry, but it was repurposed to host various events.
The MV Hiyu's new life as an event space began in 2013. This marked a new chapter for the ship, which had previously been used for transportation.
One of the key features of the MV Hiyu's event venue is its spacious decks. With a total area of 1,500 square meters, the ship offers ample space for events of all sizes.
The venue's interior has been renovated to accommodate different types of events, including weddings, corporate functions, and parties.
MV Hiyu's New Purpose
The MV Hiyu is now a local floating entertainment venue, a new life for the 50-year-old ferry after being retired in 2016.
It was sold to Menagerie Inc. for $150,000, a fraction of its original value, and was towed to its new home on Lake Union.
The ferry will continue to serve Washingtonians, albeit in a different capacity, after being used for many years to transport vehicles and passengers.
It's a great example of how retired ferries can be repurposed and continue to have a useful life, rather than being scrapped.
Ferry Becomes Event Venue

The MV Hiyu has found a new purpose in life as an event venue on Lake Union. It was sold to Menagerie Inc. for $150,000, a fraction of the cost of scrapping it.
The 50-year-old ferry will be used for entertainment purposes, a second life for a vessel that outlived its usefulness as a ferry. The Hiyu was retired in 2016 due to high maintenance costs and lack of ADA accommodations.
It's a great reuse of an old ferry, and it's wonderful to see it being repurposed in such a way. The Hiyu was originally built in 1967 and served several routes, including the Point Defiance/Tahlequah and San Juan Islands inter-island routes.
The ferry was last used as a relief vessel before being put up for sale. Its last sailing was on July 23, 2015.
Hiyu (II)
Hiyu (II) is a ship with a rich history. It was originally built in 1945 as a passenger ferry.

The ship has undergone several transformations, with its most recent being its conversion into a floating hotel and restaurant in 2012. This conversion took place in the Philippines.
Hiyu's new purpose is a far cry from its original intention, which was to serve as a passenger ferry. The ship now offers a unique dining experience to its guests.
The ship's interior has been designed to resemble a traditional Japanese ryokan, complete with tatami-mat rooms and sliding shoji doors. This attention to detail helps to create an immersive experience for diners.
Guests can enjoy a range of traditional Japanese dishes in the ship's restaurant, which offers a unique view of the surrounding waters.
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