Washington State Ferries starts building three hybrid‑electric ferries

Washington State Ferries (WSF) held a steel‑cutting ceremony on August 5, 2026 at Eastern Shipbuilding Group’s Panama City, Florida yard to begin construction of three new hybrid Ro‑Pax vessels. The contract, awarded to Eastern Shipbuilding Group, includes two ferries with an option for a third, which the state exercised, bringing the total to three vessels.

Each ferry will carry up to 1,500 passengers and 160 standard‑size vehicles, feature a hybrid‑electric propulsion system, and be compatible with existing WSF docks. Delivery is scheduled for 2030, 2031 and 2032. The project costs about $1.15 billion, roughly $240 million less than the alternative bid, and represents the first new ferry for the system in more than a decade, addressing a fleet shortfall of five vessels.

Governor Bob Ferguson announced the option exercise, while WSF Program Administrator David Sowers highlighted the state’s commitment to modernising the ferry fleet and reducing emissions.