The 48-year-old Elwha will remain out of service for approximately four months while crews perform emergency repairs to a drive motor.

“We realize having one of our mid-sized vessels out for an extended period of time puts a strain on travelers, especially during the height of our busiest season,” says Washington State Ferries. “Until further notice, the 124-car Kitsap will continue to serve the Anacortes/San Juan Islands route in place of the Elwha.”

While the 124-car capacity Kitsap holds 20 fewer cars than the 144-car Elwha, this plan avoids large service reductions to the islands during this busy travel period. For more information on the Elwha check, Washington State Department of Transportation Travel Alert Bulletins online or call 511 to speak to an information agent.