Walla Walla, the Washington State Ferries vessel that was grounded on April 15th, is now back in service after investigations found the cause and measures were taken.
It was on April 15th that The United States Coast Guard (USCG) had received reports that 596 passengers and 15 crew members were aboard ferry Walla Walla, when it run aground in Rich Passage near Bainbridge Island. Vessels were employed in order to escort the passenger out of the ferry. The rising tide assisted during the slated removal of the vessel from the shoal water.
Initially, officials claimed that the vessel’s generator had failed, and an official investigation was launched. Internal Washington State Ferries and US Coast Guard investigation teams determined that contaminated fuel caused generator failure (including backup systems), which resulted in a loss of propulsion and steering controls and the subsequent grounding.
Walla Walla returned to service on the Seattle-Bremerton route yesterday. The inquiry into how the fuel got contaminated is still ongoing, according to Washington State Ferries. To avoid a repeat event, every fuel currently on board was tested clean. Both the Walla Walla and its sister ship, the Spokane, have received new, updated generator monitoring gauges.
Another big thanks to our crew on day of grounding for their quick actions and professionalism, as well as our partners at @wastatepatrol, @USCGPacificNW & @KitsapTransit for their assistance. And much appreciation to everyone involved with getting #WallaWalla back into service!
— Washington State Ferries (@wsferries) May 3, 2023
