Ferry fire will cause Puget Sound summer travel delays

SEATTLE (AP) — Puget Sound ferry travelers can expect summer delays because last month’s fire aboard the ferry Wenatchee has forced the state to use smaller vessels than normal on several routes. The Seattle Times reports the Washington State Ferries is operating 18 vessels instead of the usual summer fleet of 19 boats. Besides a reduced number of ferries, state officials say crew shortages and quarantines related to COVID-19 further limit capacity, just as peak travel season begins. Lower-capacity schedules take effect Thursday night. The jumbo ferry Wenatchee remains docked at Eagle Harbor on Bainbridge Island following the April 22 fire.