Paradosis

October 31, 2006

Semper Paratus!

It is reported that Washington's Ferry system, the largest in the United States, is a cosnidered a high potential target for terrorists. In fact, there is apparently intelligence to suggest that the ferries have been scoped out. I heard as I boarded this afternoon that there were 1900 other passengers along with me on board the M/V Tacoma.

But you fell pretty safe seeing a couple of these boats circling around you.

Just as we began to pull away from the Seattle dock, they shot eastward back behind us THROUGH the chaotic swirls and wash of our props pushing us away from the dock and then up around the other side. They then followed us westbound until we passed the Wenatchee heading back to Seattle at which point they broke from escorting us and shot accross the rough water to pull alongside - perilously close I thought - the eastbound boat.

They looked like they were locked and loaded and ready fo business. See:

This guys flickr pics look much like what I got to watch. I have to admit, I felt a bit of national pride seeing the flags fluttering as these boats beat cheeks over the water.