The M/V Kennicott’s scheduled return to service on April 22 will be delayed due to supply chain issues, labor constraints, and an unexpected mechanical failure, according to a press release from the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities. The Alaska Marine Highway System is working with all eighty Alaska-bound travelers on alternative transportation options in order to accommodate their individual travel needs and timeline.
The M/V Kennicott was scheduled to depart Bellingham for a northbound voyage on April 22. The ship is now anticipated to pick up its original schedule on Monday, April 25, departing northbound from Ketchikan.
The Alaska Department of Transportation states that, like the rest of the U.S., AMHS and its contractors are grappling with supply chain and tight labor market issues, and 2022 has marked several delays in return to service for Marine Highway vessels. Once repairs are complete, Kennicott will be Coast Guard inspected and recertified for sailing.
The Kennicott is designed to carry 499 passengers and has a vehicle capacity of 1,560 linear feet for operation in Southeast Alaska and 1,340 linear feet in Southwest Alaska, which equals 67 to 78 twenty-foot vehicles.
