Gov. Bob Ferguson unveiled plans Thursday to fully restore the state’s domestic ferry service by this summer. The goal is to get 18 vessels in the water, with another three going through maintenance at various times — a return to levels last seen in 2019.

Ferguson explained that the delay is part of a larger strategy to fully restore ferry service by this summer. Converting the ferries would require them to be out of service for an extended period, disrupting service.

Washington State Gov. Bob Ferguson: “We must do everything we can to fully restore ferry service to pre-pandemic levels. This decision immediately improves customer service and centers the people.”

Ferguson said converting all the state's jumbo ferries would keep them out of service too long, but the plan to build new hybrid-electric boats will continue.

The first hybrid electric ferry, however, is still on track to launch in June. Despite the conversion process taking 22 months longer than the initially planned year.

After years of low staffing and unreliable schedules, Gov. Bob Ferguson announced Thursday that Washington state will have full ferry service by summer, bringing the system back to pre-pandemic levels.

Governor Bob Ferguson is pausing the hybrid-electrification of two Washington state ferries, saying things are way behind schedule.

Governor Bob Ferguson laid out his plan to restore full ferry service by this summer, and he wants the state legislature to include $28 million for the ferries in the budget.