What that seemingly wayward state ferry is doing off Alki (and beyond)

| Seen at sea | West Seattle news

10:28 AM: Thanks for the photos and tips! The state ferry M/V Salish is drawing some attention right now by sailing in an unusual pattern off Alki (and points south). According to Washington State Ferries, the Salish is currently out of service for repairs, which has taken the Seattle-Bremerton route down to one boat. The Kitsap Sun reported the Salish has been out of service since Saturday afternoon because of an “engine issue.” As noted during WSF’s recent spring community meeting (WSB coverage here), breakdowns are especially bad news right now because it’s the peak season but the system already has some vessels out for longterm repair work.

11:11 AM: Joel sent that view of the Salish close-in, looking toward Alki Point, plus a screengrab from a tracker showing the attention-getting route it’s been sailing.

12:13 PM: And an aerial view from Sharon, who said it looked like Salish was doing “donuts”:

Karen Lee June 20, 2021 (11:31 am)

Beautiful Salish, as it parades back and forth~

StopCuttingDownTrees June 20, 2021 (12:48 pm)

So, now police have to deal with ferry captains doing donuts in the Sound as well as young hot-rodders doing donuts at Seattle Center. More Pandemic madness.

aRF June 20, 2021 (4:55 pm)

Right on. This is what happens when you defund the harbor patrol.
Claudia June 20, 2021 (8:34 pm)

It was undergoing a sea trial, but I like your assessment of the account better!

trickycoolj June 20, 2021 (4:26 pm)

Poster on Reddit last night mentioned the cars had to back off the Salish in reverse after one engine failed 5 min into the journey. Can’t imagine having to reverse off the boat onto the dock!