The Alaska Marine Highway System’s ferry Columbia is out of service in Ketchikan, Alaska, for repairs to its port main engine, with a return to regular northbound revenue service scheduled for Nov. 8.
A technical inspection determined that the engine requires a replacement cylinder liner and piston, according to AMHS. The system has secured the components, and a Wärtsilä technician is expected in Ketchikan on Thursday, Nov. 5, to perform the repairs alongside the vessel’s engineering crew.
The planned Sunday departure from Ketchikan would return the ferry to its standard northbound schedule, covering all scheduled ports of call going forward, AMHS said.
Passengers currently aboard may remain on the vessel during repairs. For those choosing to disembark and arrange alternative travel, Ketchikan Terminal staff will process ticket reimbursements and coordinate arrangements for unaccompanied vehicles left in AMHS care.
