 scheduled for May 4 in Metlakatla April 13, 2004
 Photo by Dan Hart ©2004
"The marine highway is particularly pleased with this welcome addition to the fleet," stated Senior Port Captain Lynn Melin. "M/V Lituya will provide a significant improvement in service to the Metlakatla community at reduced operating cost," she added. With an average fuel consumption of 60 gallons per hour at service speed, the Lituya will be the most economical vessel in Alaska's marine highway system. Some major characteristics of the ship include a 50-foot beam, 10-foot draft and service speed of 12 knots. It has two 1,000 horsepower diesel main engines driving twin screws through reduction gears and clutches. Lituya also has a ship's service diesel generator and a back-up ship service and bow thrust generator. The vessel's three rudders provide additional responsiveness in close maneuvering situations. According to the Alaska Department
of Transportation, following completion of final inspections
and crew orientation training in Ketchikan and Metlakatla, the
State anticipates formal acceptance of the Lituya later this
month. An inaugural ceremony in Metlakatla is scheduled for May
4 and will be attended by Lieutenant Governor Loren Leman and
Lituya's sponsor, Mrs. Carolyn Leman.
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