Pierce County ferry riders in large vehicles and vehicles with low ground clearance – such as an RV, commercial truck or a vehicle towing a trailer – traveling to or from Anderson or Ketron islands for Memorial Day weekend should plan ahead to avoid extreme tides on May 22.

Extreme tides are expected from 2:15-4:15 p.m. and 9:30-11:30 p.m. on May 22. Load restrictions will be in place on some sailings during those timeframes, and riders may be asked to go on a different sailing.

Ticket agents and crew will be checking all large vehicles and vehicles towing trailers that arrive during sailings affected by the extreme tides. Riders can call Steve Caputo, HMS Ferries, Inc. general manager, at (253) 588-5290 to discuss which run might work best for them.

“Ferry crew and staff will work with travelers to minimize inconveniences,” Caputo said. “By being conservative during extreme tides, we can avoid damage to vehicles, ramps and the ferry.”

Extreme tides are expected regularly this summer. Ferry riders in large vehicles should consider calling ahead of time for more information and to discuss their preferred sailing through Sept. 7.

Holiday weekends for Memorial Day, Fourth of July and Labor Day typically see increased traffic and an increase in large vehicles.

The Pierce County Ferry System provides service between Steilacoom, Anderson Island and Ketron Island. More information about the system is available atwww.piercecountywa.org/ferry.