Core Insights - Eastern Shipbuilding Group has won a contract to build three hybrid ferries for Washington State, marking the first public bidding for ferry construction in 25 years [2][3] - The contract is part of Washington State Ferries' (WSF) modernization efforts to restore pre-pandemic operational levels and improve crew retention [3] Group 1: Contract Details - The contract was awarded at a bid of $714.5 million, which is 6% lower than WSF's estimated cost [2] - The project will be implemented in phases, with the first ferry costing approximately $405 million, including $150 million for owner-provided equipment and training [2] - The second ferry is estimated at $360 million, and the third at $325 million, with decreasing risk reserves as experience is gained [2] Group 2: Modernization Efforts - WSF is modernizing its fleet due to aging vessels and reduced service frequency, with a goal to restore services to pre-pandemic levels ahead of schedule [3] - A previous contract with Vigor shipyard for $100 million aims to retrofit two Jumbo Mark II ferries from diesel to hybrid power, with the first ferry expected to return to service soon [3] - WSF currently operates 21 ferries and plans to convert six diesel ferries to hybrid, build 16 new hybrid ferries, and decommission 13 diesel ferries [4] Group 3: Government Support - The Washington State government has allocated over $39 million for human resource support to improve crew recruitment, training, and retention [3]