Mayor says Shepler is at full capacity and will offer additional trips as ferry ownership is consolidated

MACKINAC ISLAND, Mich. (WLUC) – Mackinac Island remains open for business despite the recent consolidation of ferry ownership.

Mayor Margaret Doud says the island is ready to continue welcoming guests for the rest of the season.

“We’ve had some press coverage over the last few weeks, and the headlines have been a bit misleading. The important thing to know is that Shepler’s has a full schedule, offers additional trips, and we encourage visitors to come to the island,” Doud said.

The Hoffmann Marine Company, owner of Shepler’s Ferry, purchased the Mackinac Island Ferry Company, formerly Star Line Ferry, earlier this summer.

The city permitted Hoffmann Marine to temporarily cease operations of the Mackinac Island Ferry Company (Star Line) and transfer all ferry services to Shepler’s for the remainder of the 2024 season.

According to a press release, Shepler’s has doubled its schedule where necessary to accommodate increased passenger volume.

The city wants to use its regulatory powers to protect the public from the potential negative impacts of a single ferry operator, adding that it has the authority to “establish or authorize, license and regulate ferries to and from the city… and from time to time regulate and fix the fees and rates for the transportation of persons and goods.”

The press release states that the city is determined to use these powers to protect the public interest.

Guests seeking further information on current ferry schedules and operations should visit www.sheplersferry.com.

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