On Wednesday afternoon, Aug. 6, the 90-car Sealth replaced the 144-car Elwha on the Anacortes-San Juan Islands route, so the Elwha could undergo necessary repairs for an apparent propulsion cooling system failure.

The Elwha went dead in the water Wednesday morning near Blakely Island. It was carrying 100 cars and more than 200 people. It was towed to Anacortes where the vehicles and passengers were safely unloaded.

Ferry system spokeswoman Susan Harris said the Elwha will be repaired at Eagle Harbor.

Transportation Department Ferry Division Director David Moseley said on Aug. 8, “Crews are working overtime to return the Elwha to service as soon as possible. I appreciate the patience of our customers and apologize for the inconvenience.”