MADONNA - Madonna adds flexibility, ice-breaking capacity for Wisconsin operator

For most of this century, the Washington Island Ferry Line had a single icebreaking vessel available for winter runs across Lake Michigan’s Death’s Door Passage. The arrangement caused some sleepless nights for company President Hoyt Purinton.

- Casey Conley 

He should rest a little easier this year now that a second ice-hardened ferry has joined the fleet.

“We haven’t had the luxury of a backup vessel should our primary winter boat, Arni J. Richter, have mechanical issues during the ice operating season,” said Purinton, the fourth-generation president of the ferry company based on Washington Island, Wis. “The year-round community ... depends on daily service every day of the year, and this vessel strengthens our position during the most operationally challenging period of the year.”

Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding completed the 124-foot Madonna in July using plans developed by Seacraft Design. Both firms are based in Sturgeon Bay, Wis., and they are among nearly a dozen vendors and suppliers from the Badger State used in Madonna’s construction and outfitting.

The 1,600-hp double-ended newbuild is the largest and most versatile ferry in Washington Island Ferry’s five-vessel fleet. It was designed with 15 feet of overhead clearance to accommodate larger vehicles, including oversized construction equipment and special cargoes. It can hold 28 vehicles and up to 149 passengers.

As of August, the ferry line was still breaking in the new boat. But the captains have noticed some nice surprises in its performance. “Underway, it is quiet and incredibly smooth,” Purinton said. “There is absolutely no vibration. Although we haven’t had much rough weather, in a beam sea it is a comfortable ride.”