La Pointe acquires Madeline Island Ferry Line

The Town of La Pointe has bought a boat.

Five, to be exact, as part of the recently-finalized purchase of the Madeline Island Ferry Line.

The town purchased the ferry line Chairman Glenn Carlson considers its “lifeline” for roughly $17.3 million after word the previous owners were interested in selling the operation.

Longtime La Pointe resident James Rogers is thrilled the town went through with the purchase. The third-generation islander frequently travels to and from the mainland, and over the years one thing has been made clear to him— how crucial the ferry service is.

“This is absolutely great for the town,” he said.

Rather than have an unknown investor snatch it up, town officials felt it was important to step in. The town purchased the ferry line’s assets by securing revenue and general obligation bonds, which are a form of long-term borrowing used by state and local governments to finance projects.

When the purchase was tentatively announced several months ago, the town was considering having the taxpayers help cover the costs of the acquired debt. But town officials have been adamant about not doing that and found other ways to make up the difference.

That includes increasing ticket prices. As a result, ferry passengers will see increased rates of roughly 6-7%. Last year, a round-trip ferry ride cost for an adult was $17 without a vehicle and $45 to bring most vehicles. Ferry-goers can expect to see the increased rates starting mid_May, Carlson said.

The increase in revenue over time should cover the purchase of the ferry line, Carlson said.

In the past, Rogers has experienced frustrations with the lack of late ferries available, causing him to miss a ferry back after a night on the town or a concert at Big Top Chautauqua. Later ferry rides would also help students on the island who attend the Bayfield School District, Rogers said.

The La Pointe Harbor Commission has been formed to oversee the ferry line and members hope to resolve these and other similar issues moving forward.

In the future, Carlson said the town is also looking at acquiring an electric ferry.

“We use a ton of diesel fuel. It would be a phenomenal addition. It would be a wonderful example of this area trying to support having a clean port,” he said.