1936 BIW 150' Historic Custom Ferry “Pt. Ruston” – 2008 Refit – Tacoma, Washington
Tacoma, United States
Watercraft Type:
Ferry
Model
Custom Ferry
Build Year
1936
Condition
Fully Operational
Description
1936 Bath Iron Works 150’ Historic Custom Ferry “Pt. Ruston” – Major 2008 Refit, Event/Commercial Versatile Platform – Tacoma, Washington
A rare, operational slice of American maritime heritage, this 45.7 m (150 ft) all-riveted steel ferry began life to U.S. Navy specifications at Bath Iron Works, then served decades as MV Steilacoom. A comprehensive 2008 rebuild transformed her into an elegant, multi-use venue—suited for commercial events, floating restaurant/office, private residence, or harbor shuttle—while preserving classic lines and robust shipyard quality.
Construction & Form
Hull: all-riveted wrought steel | Superstructure: welded/riveted | Beam: 16.15 m (53 ft) | Draft: 3.05 m (10 ft)
Displacement hull with flat sheer, curved stern, flared sides; three-level island superstructure with fore & aft pilothouses and expansive open decks.
Main Machinery & Ship’s Power
Caterpillar D-379 V-8 diesel, 565 hp @ 1,225 rpm; Twin Disc MG-521 gear; 8" steel shaft; 82"×78" four-blade stainless prop. Two gensets: 75 kW Kato (GM 6-71) and 40 kW GM 4-71. Fuel ~4,000 gal for excellent autonomy. Cruise ~9 knots; recorded consumption ~45–50 gal per trip on recent Tacoma–Ballard–Lake Union runs.
Interior Fit & Spaces
Refit interior finished with cherry cabinetry and granite surfaces. Showcase galley (2008): GE stainless appliances, granite tops, central island—ideal for catering. Main deck configured with offices, display rooms, and two heads; upper passenger deck with walkaround and enclosed seating; enlarged deckhouse for maximum usable area.
Navigation & Control
Furuno 1831 radar, Standard Horizon GPS Chart 155C, Jastram hydraulic jog steering, dual Ritchie compasses, dual Icom VHFs, depth sounder, autopilot, PA/cockpit audio. Fixed firefighting system in aft void; electric windlass.
Use Cases & Opportunity
Exceptional platform for weddings/corporate events, floating hospitality, boutique offices, tourism excursions, or a distinctive liveaboard. Vast deck areas and classic aesthetic create immediate destination appeal.
Upkeep & Spares
Comprehensive 2008 rebuild; annual haul-outs, antifouling, and routine service performed. Reported engine hours ~8,500. Spares inventory includes shafts and propellers.
Regulatory & History
U.S.-flagged; built to Navy spec; previously USCG Subchapter T passenger service (indicatively up to 49 pax U.S., 57 pax SCV alt.). Documentation and ownership history support a straightforward transfer.
Viewing & Purchase
Located in Tacoma, Washington. Private inspections and professional survey welcomed; escrowed transaction with delivery support available.
CTA – Make It Your Signature Venue: Request the full refit dossier and deck plans, then arrange an onboard tour in Tacoma to explore event flow and services infrastructure. Enquire for pricing and terms.
SEO Meta (Copy-Ready)
| SEO Listing Title | 1936 BIW 150’ Historic Custom Ferry – 2008 Refit, Event / Commercial Platform – Tacoma WA |
|---|---|
| Meta Description | Iconic 150’ Bath Iron Works ferry for sale in Tacoma. Major 2008 refit, riveted steel build, elegant interiors, ideal for events, hospitality, or commercial use. |
| SEO Keywords | historic ferry for sale, Bath Iron Works vessel, event boat purchase, floating restaurant ferry, Tacoma Washington ferry sale, commercial vessel for sale USA, riveted steel ship, liveaboard ferry, USCG Subchapter T history, office on water, unique venue boat, vintage ferry buy |
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Watercraft Characteristics
Manufacturer : Bath Iron Works
Model : Custom Ferry
Manufactured Year : 1936
No. Bathrooms : 6
Length (meters) : 45.7
Width (meters) : 16.15
Draft (meters) : 3.05
Engine: in HP : 565 hp
Engine Type : Inboard
Max Auth. Capacity: 49
Fuel Tank Capacity: 15141 ltr
Fresh Water Capacity: 15141 ltr
Max. Speed (Kn) : 9.00 kn
Cruising Speed (Kn) : 9.00 kn
Building Materials : steel
Listing Status
Manufactured Country: United States
Condition: Fully Operational
Year of first Registration: 1936
Flag: United States
Tax & Other Contingencies :
Cleared
Cleared
Insurance details
- KaterBlue ensures all boats are insured by their owners, but advise guests to secure Travel Insurance for off-boat incidents. While boat owners cover marine accidents, guests are responsible for their valuables, or entrust to the captain. In case of an accident, captains must inform KaterBlue promptly. Owners are liable for the lack of proper insurance. Guests engaging in water sports do so at their own risk and should have personal insurance.
Location
Starting:
£374,250
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REQUEST PRICE
Sale price starting
£374,250
