The 45'x18'4" passenger ferry, Hat Island Ferry, recently entered service for the community of Hat Island, Wash.
The vessel carries a USCG COI 49 passengers plus crew and is utilized to transport people and goods as part of a weekly ferry schedule to and from the Port of Everett, Wash.
Brix Marine (formerly Armstrong Marine USA), Port Angeles, Wash., designed and built the walk-on ferry.
Hat Island Ferry is built on the second generation of Brix’s efficient semi-displacement passenger hull, the 4519-DCT. The vessel is powered by twin Cummins QSL9 405-hp engines and shaft and wheel propulsion, delivering a cruise speed of 14 to 17 knots with 0.8 mpg fuel economy. The design includes bowthrusters in each hull, which provide added maneuverability. Two passenger gates at the bow, plus a side door aft, expedite the boarding process. Additional exterior customizations include 12 deck tie-down points and an aluminum davit (500-lb. SWL) for cargo transport.
The 4519-DCT’s full width main cabin with forward leaning raised pilothouse allows for flexible interior layout options. The cabin, designed to accommodate 43 passengers, includes multiple lockers as well as overhead storage bins for luggage and cargo. The cushioned bench seats include more storage underneath.
The aft deck has additional seating for four passengers as well as two 1,500-watt infrared electric heaters to ensure passenger comfort. The aft cabin includes a counter for ticket sales and concession stand, complete with additional storage shelving, microwave, and refrigerator. The head is accessed from the aft deck. Capt. Shane Dunn of Hat Island said the Hat Island Ferry is "the most stable, seaworthy, and safe boat I've had the pleasure to work on."
Hat Island is a small, private island community in Snohomish County, Wash. The island is nestled in Possession Sound between Everett, Whidbey, and Camano Islands. It operates a weekly ferry schedule to and from the Port of Everett. Its residents' requirements are reflected in the ferry design which received widespread community approval.
