News
November 29, 2025
2 Washington Ferries Are for Sale, but It's Complicated
Washington state has put two of its decommissioned ferries—the 144-car Hyak and the 87-car Klahowya—up for sale, but would-be buyers should prepare for a gauntlet of regulatory hurdles and high costs that have deterred all previous takers so far. The two vessels (check out pictures here ) have...
**Two Washington State Ferries Up for Sale, But Buyer Beware**
Ever dreamt of owning your own ferry boat? The state of Washington is offering a unique opportunity to purchase two of its retired vessels, the Hyak and the Klahowya. However, prospective buyers should be aware that acquiring these maritime behemoths comes with a considerable set of challenges.
The Hyak, a 144-car ferry, and the Klahowya, with a capacity of 87 cars, are currently up for grabs. These ferries once served vital routes within the Washington State Ferries system, connecting communities across the Puget Sound. Now, they represent a potential opportunity for someone with the vision and resources to repurpose them.
But don't let the allure of owning a piece of maritime history fool you. Previous attempts to sell these vessels have been unsuccessful, primarily due to the complex web of regulatory requirements and the significant costs associated with their upkeep and potential renovation.
Before even thinking about setting sail, any potential buyer must navigate a labyrinth of environmental regulations, safety standards, and potential modifications necessary for their intended use. These hurdles can add considerable expense and time to the overall project.
Furthermore, the sheer size and age of the ferries present logistical and financial challenges. Maintaining these vessels, even in a non-operational state, requires ongoing investment. Repurposing them for a new role, whether as a floating restaurant, a unique event space, or something else entirely, would demand significant capital for refurbishment and adaptation.
The state is eager to find suitable buyers for these ferries, hoping they can be given a new lease on life. However, they are also upfront about the complexities involved. This isn't a simple purchase; it's a commitment to taking on a significant project with considerable financial and regulatory implications. So, while the idea of owning a ferry might sound appealing, potential buyers need to carefully weigh the costs and challenges before making the plunge. Only those with deep pockets and a strong understanding of maritime regulations are likely to succeed in navigating this complicated sale.
Ever dreamt of owning your own ferry boat? The state of Washington is offering a unique opportunity to purchase two of its retired vessels, the Hyak and the Klahowya. However, prospective buyers should be aware that acquiring these maritime behemoths comes with a considerable set of challenges.
The Hyak, a 144-car ferry, and the Klahowya, with a capacity of 87 cars, are currently up for grabs. These ferries once served vital routes within the Washington State Ferries system, connecting communities across the Puget Sound. Now, they represent a potential opportunity for someone with the vision and resources to repurpose them.
But don't let the allure of owning a piece of maritime history fool you. Previous attempts to sell these vessels have been unsuccessful, primarily due to the complex web of regulatory requirements and the significant costs associated with their upkeep and potential renovation.
Before even thinking about setting sail, any potential buyer must navigate a labyrinth of environmental regulations, safety standards, and potential modifications necessary for their intended use. These hurdles can add considerable expense and time to the overall project.
Furthermore, the sheer size and age of the ferries present logistical and financial challenges. Maintaining these vessels, even in a non-operational state, requires ongoing investment. Repurposing them for a new role, whether as a floating restaurant, a unique event space, or something else entirely, would demand significant capital for refurbishment and adaptation.
The state is eager to find suitable buyers for these ferries, hoping they can be given a new lease on life. However, they are also upfront about the complexities involved. This isn't a simple purchase; it's a commitment to taking on a significant project with considerable financial and regulatory implications. So, while the idea of owning a ferry might sound appealing, potential buyers need to carefully weigh the costs and challenges before making the plunge. Only those with deep pockets and a strong understanding of maritime regulations are likely to succeed in navigating this complicated sale.
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Technology