February 08, 2010
Monday

The Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) has altered various ferry schedules following the 47-year-old Matanuska's delayed return to service after about six weeks of vessel enhancement maintenance.

Technicians recently completed installing a new electronic, controllable-pitch-propeller control system and extensive shafting, hub and propeller work along with routine overhaul maintenance aboard Matanuska in Ketchikan.

Matanuska and its crew were originally scheduled to return to the fleet Feb. 2. The ship returned Feb. 5, after passing and completing a Coast Guard maintenance inspection.

"Although Matanuska's return was a few days behind schedule, our reservations and scheduling staff performed terrifically to juggle schedules for the Malaspina, Taku and Matanuska and limit disruption to our customers," said Capt. John Falvey, General Manager, AMHS. "In fact the schedule alterations should actually prove more beneficial for travelers wishing to attend this year's Gold Medal Basketball tournament in Juneau."

The 64th annual, week-long basketball tournament takes place March 21 through March 27.

According to Falvey, the revised schedules will allow the ferry service to transport more passengers and vehicles aboard the larger Matanuska instead of the 352-foot Taku.

The revised schedules for Matanuska, Malaspina and Taku are available for online viewing at:
www.dot.state.ak.us/amhs/schedules.shtml , and those with reserved berthing accommodations are encouraged to contact AMHS to verify their stateroom reservations.

Individuals or groups requiring scheduling assistance can contact the AMHS Central Reservations at (907) 465-3941 or (800) 642-0066.

Source of News:

Alaska Department of Transportation
www.dot.stae.ak.us

 

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