What is the vessel capacity?
The new vessels are being designed to hold 64 cars, about the same number as the Steel Electric class ferries that served the Port Townsend/Keystone route. The original Island Home design has capacity for 57 standard autos. [1] WSDOT plans to lengthen the vessel hull by inserting a 20’ mid-body to provide for more vehicle capacity. WSDOT will reduce the passenger capacity from 1,200 to 650-750 passengers. This will save money in crewing costs [2], while still meeting the demands of the route. The Steel Electrics were certified for 616 passengers, so WSDOT expects the Island Home to have a similar crew size. WSDOT is able to increase the passenger count in the future if demand warrants (would require re-certification from the U.S. Coast Guard).
