Ferry Service Will Start May 29th To Mackinac Island

Shepler's Mackinac Island Ferry announced Friday on Facebook that they will be kicking off their 75th season of ferrying passengers back and forth to Mackinac Island at the end of the month.

Their post says Friday, May 29th will be the first day of sailing.  MLive reports that since Mackinac island is only accessible by boat and airplane, the ferry service is deemed an essential service even though their first day will be a day after the current Stay-At-Home Executive Order expires, on May 28.

They do plan to open even if the order is extended. Shepler’s Mackinac Island Ferry told MLive that they will soon release their new policies and procedures for ticketing as they adjust their operations amid the COVID-19 pandemic.  Owners told MLive customers safety and security are their top concerns as they roll into the 2020 sailing season.

The first to Ferry rides will leave for the island Friday, May 29th at 7:30 am from both St. Ignace and Mackinaw City.

You can get more information and the latest updates on their website.

Wondering if the island is even going to be open this summer?

According to 9&10 News, Mackinac Island has released a plan for re-opening businesses as their busiest season comes about.

The plan, as reported by 9&10 News requires all employees coming to the island to be in quarantine for two weeks, and any commuting employees should quarantine at their home for two weeks before starting their daily commute to the island for work.  Social distancing of at least 6 feet and wearing face masks will be a requirement for workers as well, and businesses will have to have an enhanced cleaning and disinfection routine in place too.