We’re thrilled to announce that earlier this morning, we celebrated the William Richard’s first passenger voyage to Mackinac Island.
On one of the most visually stunning mornings of the season, the Michigan-made motor vessel departed Mackinaw City and officially entered the Shepler’s fleet of passenger ferry boats.
The $4M jet driven ferry is named after Shepler patriarch, William (Bill)
Shepler, to honor his hard work and continued dedication to the Shepler name and the company
he built.
The William Richard passed all Coast Guard inspections days prior to her debut. “We have waited so long for this state-of-the-art vessel to make her way into the water,” Chris Shepler said, “as soon as she passed all trials and inspections, we were ready to put her into service, serving the community of Mackinac Island.”
As part of her debut, Bill Shepler was presented a bottle of champagne to be used at the official christening of the vessel prior to launch in the 2021 season – official date is to be determined. In his speech, Bill paid tribute to everyone who helped build, and launch this vessel, assuring smooth sailing across the Straits of Mackinac and blessed her long journey ahead.
The William Richard will make daily departures now through the end of the 2020 season.