The agreement should end the controversy over the ferry service
MACKINAC ISLAND -- The Mackinac Island City Council has approved the applications of two ferry companies to provide service to and from the island.
The agreement appears to end the controversy over alleged favoritism in the awarding of the ferry service.
The two companies with two-year contracts are Northern Ferry Company LLC and Shepler's Inc. Northern Ferry is a new company formed by Arnold Transit and Star Line.
The city had insisted that Shepler's change two items in its application, and Shepler's agreed.
The two companies have agreed that the maximum price for adult round trip tickets will now be $22. It had been $24.
"There is now real price competition between the ferry boat companies," said Mayor Margaret Doud. "As the weather breaks and spring is in the air, we look forward to a great season and welcome everyone to one of Michigan's greatest assets."
In addition, ferry service will start earlier and end later during the tourist season, and the 520 year-round residents are assured of winter boat service.
An estimated 750,000 tourists visit Mackinac Island every year. Sometimes, as many as 20,000 are on the island in one day.
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