Oct. 18, 2010 15:00 UTC

Port of Kingston Launches Passenger-Only Express Ferry Service

KINGSTON, Wash.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Port of Kingston today inaugurated its new passenger-only express ferry service, SoundRunner™, offering service between Kingston, Washington, and downtown Seattle. The service, which runs from the Port of Kingston ferry terminal in Kingston to Pier 50 near Colman Dock in Seattle, provides an easy, comfortable commuting option for those travelling between Kingston and downtown Seattle whether it’s for work or play. In celebration of the new route, passengers can travel via SoundRunner free of charge today. Regular fares will go into effect beginning on Tuesday, October 19, 2010.

SoundRunner service consists of two vessels, "Spirit of Kingston" and "Victoria Express," each of which can hold up to 147 passengers for the 45-minute journey between Kingston and downtown Seattle. Passengers can conveniently connect to other regional transportation services or walk to nearby sports stadiums and offices in the downtown area. The service features food and beverage amenities, high-definition television and Wi-Fi Internet access. Additionally, each vessel is optimized for bio-diesel, making it extremely fuel efficient and an environmentally friendly option for commuting.

“We’re thrilled to be able to offer a convenient, comfortable and efficient way to travel between Kingston and downtown Seattle,” said Capt. Eric Osnes, ferry program manager for the Port of Kingston. “We believe SoundRunner is a fantastic option for both commuters and passengers looking for a fun day of shopping or catching a concert or game, and is a valuable addition to Puget Sound’s exceptional regional transportation system.”

SoundRunner operates two routes in the morning and two routes in the evening during weekday, peak commuting hours. Depending on the level of ridership, additional runs during the day or evening, as well as weekend service, may be implemented. One-way and round-trip tickets are available with fares ranging from $7.50 to $15.00. Two monthly pass options are also available for commuters.

“I’ve been a commuter for many years and, until now, there hasn’t been an easy way to get from the North Kitsap and Jefferson County area to Seattle without making multiple transfers on a variety of regional transportation services. The service will not only reduce my commute by several hours a week, but also add a breathtakingly beautiful ride to the beginning and end of my day,” said Susan Golden, Kingston resident and commuter. “I think SoundRunner is going to be a winning service not only for passengers but also businesses who subsidize employees’ commuting expenses.”

For schedule and fare information, please visit: http://www.portofkingston.org/passenger-ferry/soundrunner.html.

About The Port of Kingston

The Port of Kingston was established by the Washington State legislature in 1919 as one of the original Mosquito Fleet landing sites. The Port of Kingston is a favorite port of call for boaters travelling from the southern areas of Puget Sound heading to the Strait of Juan De Fuca, San Juan Islands, Canadian Gulf Islands and Alaska.

Washington State Ferries operate the western terminal of the Edmonds-Kingston run at the Port of Kingston with more than four million passengers a year using this route for commuting, business and recreation.

For more information, please visit: http://www.portofkingston.org/home.html.

Source: Port of Kingston

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http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20101018005086/en