BOATING –Lake Roosevelt’s public boat launch at Crescent Bay will be closed from 5 p.m. Tuesday (July 9) through Wednesday for the debut of Washington’s newest ferry, which will transport State Route 21 traffic across the Columbia River at Keller Ferry.

Motorists must use a 60-mile detour on alternate routes from today (July 8) through Aug. 13 as ferry service on the Keller route will be temporarily suspended to upgrade the terminals and fit them to the new $9.6 million vessel called the Sanpoil. 

Boaters in the area will be able to use the launch ramp at Spring Canyon, three miles east of Grand Coulee off State Route 174, during this closure.

The Washington Department of Transportation will launch the Sanpoil, built to replace the Martha S, a six-car ferry that’s covered the mile-long route across the Columbia River north of Wilbur for 64 years. The Marha S made it's last run on Sunday.

The Sanpoil will carry 20 cars while being more efficient, officials say.

The ferry had a crew of 2 have been an important link connect ing Lincoln and Ferry counties on Highway 21..

There will be no Keller Ferry for five weeks while ramps are improved for a new ferry to be dedicated Aug. 14. 

2013 Summer Season Services

at Lake Roosevelt National Recreation Area

Daisy -- marina and roadside fuel pumps, store providing snacks, beverages and ice, (509) 738-2995.

Kettle Falls Marina -- houseboat rental, fuel, groceries and moorage, (509) 738-6121.

Keller Ferry and Seven Bays -- fuel, groceries and seasonal moorage, with houseboat rentals available out of Seven Bays, (509) 725-7229. 

Fuel at all of the above locations is ethanol-free.