M/V Kennicott returns to service after 13-month, $27 million repower and overhaul

By SUZANNE DOWNING

The M/V Kennicott is back in service for Alaskans following the successful completion of an out-0f-state $27 million generator repower project, turning a page in the Alaska Marine Highway System’s ongoing revitalization effort.

The extensive capital project was designed to improve the vessel’s reliability, operational efficiency, and long-term service life. Work was completed at Everett Ship Repair in Washington, with support from the Kennicott’s Alaska Marine Highway System crew. The ship left Everett to head to Ketchikan on Christmas Eve.

At the heart of the project was the replacement of the vessel’s aging generators with new, cleaner, and more efficient equipment. The upgrades reduce fuel consumption, improve reliability, and bring the ship into compliance with federal EPA emissions standards. In addition to the generator repower, crews completed a wide range of mechanical and structural work, including renewal of key heating and electrical systems, upgrades to both main engines, propulsion shaft repairs, steel replacement, protective coating renewal, drainage improvements, vehicle deck repairs, and a full repaint of the vessel.

Together, the improvements are intended to strengthen the Kennicott’s ability to operate safely and dependably for years to come. The 382-foot-long ship was built in 1998.

“The Kennicott repower reflects our focus on efficiency that delivers reliability for Alaskans,” said Department of Transportation and Public Facilities Commissioner Ryan Anderson. “By investing in modern equipment and smarter maintenance practices, we’re reducing the risk of unexpected outages while making better use of public dollars. Alongside major vessel investments, we’re advancing critical infrastructure projects that ensure the Alaska Marine Highway System remains a dependable part of our statewide transportation network.”

The repower is one element of DOT&PF’s broader long-term strategy for the Alaska Marine Highway System, which emphasizes predictable service, efficient operations, and responsible asset stewardship. The department’s investment plan also includes replacement of the M/V Tustumena, advancement of 12 terminal and dock projects, including the Cascade Point Ferry Terminal, Cold Bay Dock Replacement, and improvements to Prince William Sound facilities, and continued customer service upgrades.

Systemwide improvements underway include installation of Wi-Fi across the fleet and deployment of an upgraded maintenance management system designed to better schedule, track, and forecast maintenance needs. DOT&PF says these tools are aimed at reducing unplanned outages and improving overall service reliability.

The Kennicott had been out of service for approximately 13 months after being pulled from service at the end of November 2024 and sent to a Puget Sound shipyard for the planned yearlong overhaul.

With the Kennicott now modernized and back in the fleet, DOT&PF says it remains focused on delivering a marine highway system that communities, businesses, and travelers across Alaska can rely on.