JUNE 2019 • FOGHORN 39 MEMBERNEWS main engines, which meet EPA Tier 3 standards, will provide 1600 maximum horsepower while its stainless propel- lers and shafts as well as stout framing make it ice-capable. Outdoor, upper deck seating and an indoor, climate- controlled cabin will be available to passengers, along with restrooms on two decks. Bow and stern ramps with wide gates will allow easy vehicle loading. It will have an overhead of 15-ft., sufficient to transport high- clearance specialty equipment (such as portable asphalt plants) as needed. “This opportunity to build yet another ferry vessel in a Door County shipyard is something we’re extremely proud of,” said Purinton. “Built locally, this ferry – like our other vessels – will operate exclusively in Door County waters between Washington Island and the tip of the Door Peninsula.” “We are pleased to build what is our third ferry for Washington Island,” said Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding’s Vice President and General Manager Todd Thayse. “All current ferry vessels were built in Sturgeon Bay. This contract will add to the steady work relied upon by the hundreds of women and men we employ from across the region.” “We’ve worked with naval architect Mark Pudlo and his firm Seacraft Design LLC, for design and engineer- ing details,” Purinton said. “We are fortunate both designer and builder are close at hand, a real plus for our company in this process.” Washington Island Ferry Line’s operations began with two wooden ferries purchased in April of 1940. Today, steel hulls of modern design meet a year-around, daily schedule of service. Washington Island is a 35-sq. mile island and home to just over 700 residents. Every summer, Washington Island becomes a popular destination, with thousands of seasonal Island homeowners, day-visitors and those who travel through Washington Island to reach Rock Island State Park for hiking or camping. Washington Island ferries also perform essential, lifeline service by carrying all varieties of cargo, mail and package freight, in addition to passengers and vehicles. n