Regarding the summer travel season, the Washington Island Ferry Line knows things can heat up quickly. According to the global research firm Tourism Economics, Door County saw a 5.1 percent increase in economic activity in 2024, amounting to more than $31 million. Direct spending reached more than $523 million in 2024, mirroring and even outpacing the trends throughout the state. Some of those dollars reach Washington Island, taking the ferry to check out the island’s recreational opportunities and small businesses. Washington Island Ferry Line President Hoyt Purinton says Memorial Day served as a nice dress rehearsal for the rest of the summer, even if cooler temperatures and economic uncertainty potentially keep things subdued for the start of the tourism season.

With the official start of summer coming on June 20^th, the Washington Island Ferry will expand its schedule to depart every 30 to 45 minutes beginning at 6:45 a.m. (to the mainland) and ending at 6:45 p.m. (to the island). The Friday night trips will also expand on June 27^th from two to four roundtrips.