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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

State investigating corrosion on newest ferry

Washington State Ferries is investigating a hole the size of a quarter in the Samish, the state’s newest ferry.

The Samish went into service in June, running the Anacortes/San Juan Islands route.

Another ferry has been brought in to take its place.

Ian Sterling, a spokesman for Washington State Ferries, said the agency is bringing in a corrosion expert to investigate the hole.

Sterling said the agency has not determined a cause, but is investigating the ship’s manufacturer and has initiated a warranty claim.

Washington State Ferries hopes to have the Samish back in service by March 10.

The crew noticed and plugged the hole right away, Sterling said. It was brought into dry dock Tuesday.