Washington State Ferries faces major disruptions due to crew shortages

Washington State Ferries (WSF) has warned of major service disruptions and cancellations across several routes due to a shortage of qualified crew members. The disruptions, affecting travel throughout the Puget Sound and San Juan Islands, began with significant delays and cancellations on Sunday, October 4, leaving many travelers stranded at terminals such as Anacortes.

On Monday, October 5, multiple routes face reduced service or complete outages. Specific affected routes include Seattle/Bainbridge, Mukilteo/Clinton, and various San Juan Island sailings. Some vessels, such as the Samish, are being utilized on limited schedules to transport students and interisland crew.

WSF management has stated they are working on options to address the openings. For those with existing reservations on cancelled sailings, the agency is waiving no-show fees and attempting to accommodate passengers on other departures on a first-come, first-served basis. New reservations and changes are currently blocked for the affected period.