Living Alaska — All Eyes on the M.V. Columbia

Sailing Again After Three Years

Photograph by Author — M.V. Columbia in the Tongass Narrows Ketchikan, Alaska February 2023

STATUS ACTIVE

After three years laid up in Ketchikan, Alaska the M.V. Columbia is set to sail again today. There are a lot of smiling faces around the M.V. Columbia this morning as last-minute preparations and crew assignments are handed out. Many past and present crew members wait anxiously for her first voyage in three years.

Constructed in 1974 by Lockheed Shipbuilding in Seattle, Washington, the M/V Columbia is the flagship vessel for the Alaska Marine Highway System for over 50 years. At 418 feet, 3,946 tons, she has two car decks and can carry 499 passengers. She has an assigned crew of 63, all of them eagerly awaiting her departure.

I have not sailed on the M.V. Columbia but look forward to joining the crew when I return from California. I wish all the crew members and passengers fair weather and happy seas. I look forward to seeing you upon my return. I join thousands of past and present crew and passengers wishing you a bon voyage. From Ketchikan, Alaska with love and RoRo.