MV Klahowya: A Washington State Ferry's Journey

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Ferry Boat Sailing on the River
Credit: pexels.com, Ferry Boat Sailing on the River

The MV Klahowya is a vital part of Washington State's ferry system, connecting communities and providing a unique perspective on the state's stunning coastline.

Built in 1980, the MV Klahowya has been serving the public for over four decades, making it a beloved and familiar sight for many locals and tourists alike.

As a reliable and efficient mode of transportation, the MV Klahowya carries thousands of passengers and vehicles daily, making a significant impact on the local economy.

With its rich history and continued importance, the MV Klahowya is an iconic symbol of Washington State's commitment to public transportation and community connection.

MV Klahowya

The MV Klahowya was a ferry that served Puget Sound for nearly 60 years. It was named after a greeting in Chinook Jargon, which is a language that was once spoken in the Pacific Northwest.

The Klahowya was built in 1958 and was operated by Washington State Ferries. It was part of the Evergreen State-class ferry, which was designed for both auto and passenger transport.

For more insights, see: Mv Coho Ferry

A serene, foggy coastal scene with a shipwreck and distant buildings under overcast skies.
Credit: pexels.com, A serene, foggy coastal scene with a shipwreck and distant buildings under overcast skies.

Here are some key facts about the MV Klahowya's service history:

  • Initially served on the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth run
  • Later served on the San Juan Islands route
  • Did short stints on the Inter-Island run in 2008 and 2012 due to a vessel shortage
  • Was moved to the Inter-Island route in 2014
  • Retired in 2017

The Klahowya's legacy lives on, as a sign from the ferry was recently donated to Klahowya Secondary School, where it will serve as a reminder of the connections between the community, schools, and the region's heritage.

History

The MV Klahowya was named for a greeting in Chinook Jargon.

The Klahowya was owned by WSDOT and operated by Washington State Ferries, with its port of registry in Seattle, Washington. It was built by Puget Sound Bridge and Dredging.

Here are the key facts about the Klahowya's history:

The Klahowya served on the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth run for nearly all of its career, with short stints on the Inter-Island run in early 2008 and August 2012 due to a vessel shortage.

Features

The MV Klahowya is a great vessel to learn about. It has a length of 144 feet and a beam of 30 feet.

MV Spokane Ferry on Sea Coast
Credit: pexels.com, MV Spokane Ferry on Sea Coast

One of its notable features is its ability to accommodate 149 passengers and 40 vehicles. The MV Klahowya offers a comfortable and convenient way to travel.

The ferry has a top speed of 13.5 knots, allowing it to quickly transport passengers and vehicles between destinations. Its draft is 7 feet, making it suitable for navigating various waterways.

The MV Klahowya is a reliable choice for commuters and travelers alike.

Sign Finds New Home

The 7-foot-long wooden sign from the MV Klahowya ferry boat has found a new home at Klahowya Secondary School.

It was unveiled during a ceremony that included Central Kitsap School District administrators, school board members, and Washington State Ferries employees.

The sign will remain displayed over an entryway into the main office.

The ferry vessel Klahowya spent most of its life on the Fauntleroy-Vashon-Southworth run before serving San Juan Islands travellers in later years.

It went into service in 1958 and was taken out of service in January 2017.

Fishing Vessel on Sea
Credit: pexels.com, Fishing Vessel on Sea

Klahowya Secondary School Principal Meghan Rubman said a random conversation during a staff meeting led the school to inquire about possibly obtaining a sign from the ferry.

Washington State Ferries was happy to see a piece of its history find a new home.

Ferries like the MV Klahowya are more than just vessels, they are lifelines linking communities and strengthening economies.

Washington State Ferry News

The MV Klahowya is a popular ferry in Washington State's ferry system. It was built in 1979 and has been a staple on the route between Kingston and Edmonds for decades.

The ferry has undergone several renovations over the years to improve its efficiency and comfort for passengers. In 2014, it underwent a major renovation that included the installation of new engines and a new propulsion system.

The MV Klahowya typically operates on a regular schedule, with multiple departures throughout the day. You can check the ferry's schedule online or through the Washington State Ferries app to plan your trip.

The ferry has a capacity for over 2,000 passengers and 202 vehicles. It's a great option for those who want to bring their cars or RVs on their trip.

Gretchen Gerhold

Writer

Gretchen Gerhold has established herself as a prolific writer, covering a diverse range of topics including logistics, trade, and economic development. Her articles on container terminals and the logistics sector in India provide deep insights into the complexities of modern supply chain management. Focusing on the state of Kerala, her work on the economy and transport in Kochi highlights the region's significant contributions to India's economic landscape.

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