MACKINAW CITY - Mackinac Island Tourism, letting visitors know that the ferry changes are not impacting tourism on the island.
They tell us, Shepler’s is running a full schedule and has added trips to and from the island from Mackinaw City and St. Ignace.
Earlier this month, Hoffmann Marine announced that the Old Star Line ferries will not be running for the rest of the season to make much-needed repairs.
Leaders on Mackinac Island say they now plan to look at regulatory powers to stop the impact of having single ferry service owners.
Mackinac Island Mayor Margaret Doud, is encouraging visitors to still come, noting that even with the changes, tourism is still booming ahead of the holiday weekend.
“So, this is more departures than they’ve ever had later into the season. So, we’re really excited to just keep, continue bringing people to the island. And we encourage people if they’ve, you know, visited once, maybe in the heart of the season to explore those other seasons,” says Steph Castelein, Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau.
There will be a special meeting Wednesday, Aug. 28 between the Mackinac Island City Council and Hoffman Marine Company where they will finalize ferry schedules for the rest of the fall season moving forward.
A timeline of our coverage
8/9 – Shepler’s Ferry adjusts to Mackinac Island Ferry Company St. Ignace closure
8/12 – Tourism bureau discusses changes to Mackinac Island ferry service, wait times
8/14 – Mackinac Island city council votes to temporarily suspend Star Line ferry services
8/15 – Mackinac Island Tourism Bureau believes Shepler’s can handle all transport to the island
8/20 – Consumers could be hurt by reduced ferry service to Mackinac Island, economist says