The Pierce County ferry Christine Anderson is scheduled to return to service today after being in dry dock for routine inspection and maintenance for the past month. The 213-foot vessel was replaced on the runs to and from Steilacoom and Anderson and Ketron islands by the smaller backup ferry Steilacoom. Because of the 151-foot Steilacoom’s smaller capacity, additional runs were added in the morning and evening. The Christine Anderson will adhere to the past month’s extended schedule Thursday and return to the regular schedule Friday.
The dry-dock inspection and maintenance were accomplished by Dakota Creek Industries Inc. in Anacortes.
The Christine Anderson, carries a maximum load of 54 vehicles and 250 passengers, was going through sea trials Wednesday. It makes 9 Monday through Thursday, 12 Friday and 11 weekend runs between Steilacoom and Anderson Island and two weekday and three weekend runs to and from Ketron Island. The Steilacoom carries 30 vehicles and 149 passengers.