Marine Security

Ferry >> Maritime Security Levels

About the USCG MARSEC System
As a part of the Homeland Security Act, the U.S. Coast Guard developed a final rule regarding security of ferry facilities and vessels. As a result of the Coast Guard rules, Pierce County developed Coast Guard-approved security plans for the ferry system.

The new Coast Guard security measures are mandatory and went into effect on July 1, 2004. The security measures will affect the commute to and from the islands depending on the security level established by the Coast Guard. There are three levels of security alert. MARSEC levels are set to reflect the prevailing threat environment to the marine elements of the national transportation system, including ports, vessels, facilities, and critical assets and infrastructure located on or adjacent to waters subject to the jurisdiction of the U.S.

The current MARSEC level is posted on this Website and at the Steilacoom Landing.

Possible Effects of the MARSEC Levels:

Passengers, baggage, and occupied vehicles may be screened.
All unaccompanied baggage and unoccupied vehicles may be screened.
Identification of passengers by photo ID may be required.
Various areas of the ferry system may be restricted.
Delays in the ferry system departure and arrival schedule may occur.
Access to the ferry system landings and/or ancillary facilities may be restricted.
Contractors may be denied access to the facilities and/or ferry vessels.
Passengers, vehicles, etc., may be denied access to the facilities and/or ferry vessels.

Consent for Screening
The effects listed above are general, not all inclusive, and will vary in intensity depending upon the MARSEC level. All passengers subject to screening will be asked for their signed consent before screening. Failure to consent or submit to screening, etc., will result in denial to remain on the premises or to board the ferry.

How You Can Help
Please be aware that if you are not at the ferry landings 20 minutes ahead of the scheduled departure, you may be delayed until the next sailing. You can help in our security efforts by reporting any suspicious activities or items at the ferry landings or on-board the ferry vessels to any crewmember or by calling the Steilacoom Landing at (253) 588-1950, or the Public Works and Utilities Office at (253) 798-7250.

For More Information
If you have any questions or comments, please contact the Public Works and Utilities office at (253) 798-7250. You can read more about MARSEC and Homeland Security at www.uscg.mil.