MACKINAW CITY, MI (AP)-- The newest ferry in a Mackinac Island fleet has been christened by Governor Rick Snyder and Shepler's Ferry CEO Bill Shepler.
The new $3.8 million, 85-foot ship named "Miss Margy" was built at Moran Iron Works in Onaway. It's undergoing final preparations in Mackinaw City before its maiden voyage to Mackinac Island later this summer. The ceremony was held Sunday in Mackinaw City.
In a statement, Snyder says the ferry "represents the best of what makes Michigan great local businesses partnering to achieve a strong economy."
The 281-passenger ferry will be the largest of Shepler's fleet and has a top speed of about 40 mph. Shepler's says components were bought from Michigan companies to the extent possible. Bill Shepler says: "we wanted to make sure we gave something back."