The annual dry dock outage of the Whatcom Chief starts this Saturday, Sept. 11. There are a few changes from past years that we want to make sure everyone is aware of before the big day:

Friday, Sept. 10

• This is the last day of regular service for the Whatcom Chief. This will be the last day to move vehicles on or off Lummi Island before dry dock.
• The last two departures will be: Midnight from Lummi Island, and at 12:10am from Gooseberry Point, technically these times are in the very early hours of Saturday, Sept. 11.
• Shuttle van begins its normal schedule on Lummi Island. The van can take up to 15 people. Masks are required on the shuttle van per state and federal mandates.

Saturday, Sept. 11

• No ferry service of any kind until approximately 4 p.m. This is a change from previous years when the Whatcom Chief would provide service in the morning and leave for dry dock in the afternoon. 
• The passenger-only ferry will start regular trips at approximately 4 p.m.

No September Punch Card Sale on the Island

• Due to the dry dock ferry outage, there is no September ferry punch card sale. Punch cards can still be purchased online from our website here, or buy a single trip with a punch card, credit/debit card, or a personal check. No cash accepted. Monthly punch card sales are expected to return in October.  

A Note About Bicycles

• Bicycle users must be able to lift their bicycle over their heads during the loading process or be prepared to wait for the next ferry if the stern of the vessel is full. This is a change from previous years. Remember that there is a maximum of 6 bicycles per trip.

In Closing

And finally, please make sure you are prepared for the lack of car ferry service. There is no car ferry service of any kind starting Sept. 11 and continuing until late in the afternoon of Oct. 2 when the Whatcom Chief returns to service. The return to service date could change. Check our Dry Dock Webpage for updates. Thank you for your patience during dry dock!