Alaska accepts bids for 2 fast ferries that faced struggles

JUNEAU, Alaska (AP) — Alaska is redoubling efforts to sell two fast ferries by accepting sealed bids.

The state Department of Transportation issued a public notice of the bidding process Thursday, CoastAlaska reported Monday.

The state set a minimum reserve price for each ship but does not plan to reveal the amount until the bids are unsealed Dec. 15.

Prospective buyers are required to post a refundable $25,000 deposit with each bid for the M/V Chenega and M/V Fairweather.

The agency told lawmakers earlier this year that the cost of mooring both fast ferries in Ketchikan's private Ward Cove fa...