Kitsap Transit’s fast ferry Finest will be taken out of service until further notice as repairs are made to a component in the starboard jet propulsion system.

The 172-passenger Melissa Ann will replace the Finest as it serves weekday travelers on the Kingston to Seattle fast ferry route.

In a news release sent out Friday, transit officials said that based on recent ridership trends, the route is expected to reach capacity on the 5:05 p.m. departure from Seattle. The 7:05 a.m. departure sailing from Kingston may also be packed to capacity, officials said.

If the 7:05 a.m. departure should reach capacity, Kitsap Transit said it would provide bus service to the Bainbridge Island ferry terminal. And if the 5:05 p.m. Seattle departure reaches capacity, Kitsap Transit stated passengers should check in with a marine services ambassador who can provide pass holders with a Washington State Ferries ticket to ride the 5:45 p.m. ferry from Seattle to Bainbridge Island.

After arriving at the Bainbridge terminal at 6:20 p.m., riders can board the Route 91 express bus to the Suquamish Park & Ride, George’s Corner Park & Ride and Washington and East 1st Street bus stop in Kingston.

Kitsap Transit is anticipating higher demand for public transportation services due to the permanent closure of the Alaskan Way Viaduct and a three-week closure to a stretch of State Route 99 in Seattle.

For more information go to kitsaptransit.com/blog/rider-alerts.