Electrical issue keeping Keller Ferry out of service

Until further notice, Keller Ferry users who travel across the Columbia River on State Route 21 should continue to find alternate routes, the state Department of Transportation says.

The Keller Ferry (M/V Sanpoil) was removed from service Wednesday, Jan. 10, due to an electrical issue that caused transmission issues during sailing. While troubleshooting the vessel’s electrical systems that week, technicians discovered that an additional electrical breaker system had failed.

Coupled with the recent arctic air this past weekend, the vessel experienced several frozen pipes connected to its generators. Technicians are working to restore power to the generators, which will help diagnose the vessel’s ongoing electrical issues.

Repairs are contingent on availability of technicians and parts once the issue has been fully discovered.

Until repairs can be made and the U.S. Coast Guard clears the vessel to return to service, the Keller Ferry will remain out of service with an unknown date for return to service, DOT said.

Travelers planning a trip across the Columbia River on SR 21 should choose an alternate route during the closure via SR 25 or SR 155 and SR 174. Drivers should also plan additional time for travel, as it can take up to an hour to complete the detour. 

Before heading out the door, travelers can find highway conditions and service changes for the Keller Ferry on the WSDOT Travel Alerts page and on WSDOT’s mobile app .