The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) ferry Real McCoy II has resumed operations after being taken out of service for extensive repairs.
The 88′x38′ vessel had been out of service since Nov. 22, 2024, due to continued mechanical failures.
Classified as an extension of Highway 84, the 2011-built Real McCoy II connects Ryer Island to Rio Vista, Calif., by crossing Cache Slough in the Sacramento–San Joaquin River Delta. The vessel has capacity for up to eight vehicles.
“After a leak was found in hydraulic system, we also discovered metal shavings in the fluid. This led to a full replacement of all hoses and many other components in the hydraulic system. It is believed the issue began in the propulsion system,” a Caltrans spokesperson told WorkBoat, noting all work was completed while the Real McCoy II was moored at its Rio Vista launch.
Caltrans announced on Dec. 18 that the ferry returned to service following a complete rebuild of its hydraulic system. “The Real McCoy II completed sea trials earlier this week and is now rated for full service,” the agency said in a statement.
“After returning to service [Dec. 17], the Real McCoy II was briefly halted [Dec. 20] to install a final, late-arriving component and will be back in service before the day is out,” the Caltrans spokesperson said.
Meanwhile, Caltrans’ other vessel, the 92′x32′ cable ferry J-Mack, remains out of service after going into drydock on Sep. 29 for repairs and U.S. Coast Guard inspections.
The J-Mack crosses Steamboat Slough in the Sacramento Delta, connecting Grand Island to East Ryer Island; about a 400-foot three-minute ride. The vessel, which was built in 1969 and has capacity for up to six cars, is classified as an extension of Highway 220.
“The J-Mack has finished its Coast Guard inspection. Minor repair work is currently underway, and we expect the J-Mack to return to service by early January as originally planned,” the Caltrans spokesperson said.
When fully operational, both ferries run 24/7 and are free of charge.
