It pays to advertise if you want to stay afloat.

Washington State Ferries earned more than $474,000 from paid advertising aboard the system’s vessels and in its terminals this year, WSF Assistant Secretary David Moseley said in his weekly report.

“Finding new sources of revenue for the ferry system becomes even more important in our current environment,” he said.

It’s the third year in a row the ferry system has pursued advertising on a larger scale, he said.

The ferry system offers distribution of brochures and magazines combined with opportunities for digital media (LCD screens) onboard all of its vessels and at six terminals.

It also procures and oversees advertising from local and national companies using posters, wraps, banners, digital media and exhibits onboard vessels and at terminals.

In 2009, the Legislature provided funding for a marketing program to improve customer service, transform the WSF brand and rebuild ridership.

This funding came as a result of a financing study conducted by the Legislature, which recommended a marketing program emphasizing off-peak ridership.