It is beginning to look like winter for the Washington Island Ferry Line as the temperatures take a turn. Washington Island Ferry President Hoyt Purinton says traffic on the ferry line is slightly up this winter because, up until recently, the cold temperatures were never complemented by the snow and ice that may inhibit the island’s growing population from venturing to the mainland. For the first time in a few years, the ferry line’s Madonna and Arni J. Richter have had to do double duty, breaking a path through the ice so it can transport people to and from the island. Purinton says while the ice adds to the wear and tear on the vessels, he is hopeful it will slow Lake Michigan's steadily declining water levels.

As we get closer to spring, the Washington Island Ferry added two additional trips on Thursdays and Fridays in the late afternoon to meet the demand of residents needing to travel to and from the mainland and increased traffic from businesses. Vehicle reservations are still required through March 14th.

Picture courtesy of Washington Island Ferry Line