Alaska government to earmark US$250 million for ferry purchase

The Alaska state government will invest in a new oceangoing Ro-Pax ferry to replace an older vessel that has been operating for nearly 60 years.

Governor Mike Dunleavy said earlier this month that the decision was made to replace the 57-year-old ferry Tustumena (pictured) instead of upgrading it, as its annual repair costs have increased to US$2 million.

The state expects the new vessel to cost around US$200 million to US$250 million and that it will enter service in 2027. Its vehicle and passenger capacities would increase by 40 per cent over that of Tustumena, from 34 to 52 vehicles and from 160 to 250 passengers.

The ferry will replace Tustumena in serving the Alaska Marine Highway System, which transports goods, vehicles, and passengers between 35 communities throughout the state.