Washington State Ferries pins hopes on governor's $1 billion proposal; first new ferry expected in 2030

Washington State Ferries executives told an online community meeting that a proposal in the governor's budget to provide $1 billion for additional vessels, plus $150 million for preservation of the agency's oldest ferries, is critical to restoring spare-capacity and preventing system-wide service ripple effects.

"The governor has proposed $1,000,000,000 for 3 additional new ferries," Steve Nebby, head of ferries, said during the presentation. Nebby and other executives emphasized that WSF operates about 18 vessels on a typical day out of a 21-vessel fleet and that a single unplanned outage can force reductions across many routes.

John Vazina, who led the procurement update, said the state has signed a contract with Eastern Shipbuilders to build two new vessels with an option for a third. "We expect to cut steel and lay the keel this summer," Vazina said, adding that the first new vessel is anticipated to arrive in 2030, with subsequent deliveries in the following years.

Why it matters: WSF said the fleet's average age is roughly 35 years and that, since the pandemic, the system faced crewing and vessel-availability challenges. Executives cited performance figures showing fewer cancellations in 2025 than 2024 and a ridership increase to about 20.1 million riders.

Officials said delivering new hybrid-electric vessels and preserving the three oldest boats with the requested $150 million would allow the agency to begin net-gaining capacity and eventually restore international service to Sidney, British Columbia, that was paused earlier.

Legislative path: Jenna, director of external relations, reminded attendees that the legislature considers the governor's supplemental proposals during a short session that runs through March 12, and that the House and Senate budget releases are expected in mid-to-late February. "We are working closely with lawmakers to answer questions and support the governor's proposed budget," she said.

Cost and procurement context: Vazina noted an earlier legislative appropriation of about $1.3 billion that had different pricing assumptions; current steel and tariff environments mean that funding will likely support three new vessels from the Florida shipyard rather than a larger number. He said the contract price includes delivery to Bainbridge Island.

What happens next: WSF officials said they will continue to brief lawmakers and the public while the legislature reviews funding. The agency said it will proceed with the current shipyard contract and options while advocating for additional funding to accelerate deliveries and expand electrification work.

The agency will post the meeting recording online and follow up on questions submitted during the session.