Back-up Boblo ferry certified, back in service

The refurbished Columbia (left) sits next to the main ferry, the Ste. Claire (right). (Photo courtesy of Windsor Aerial Drone Photography)

An issue that has garnered some public attention the last number of months appears to have been resolved.

The issue over a back-up ferry to Bois Blanc Island, one that garnered significant interest from the Town of Amherstburg to the point where notice was served to the island’s owners over the matter, saw some good news result last week as the back-up ferry “Columbia” has returned.

It joins the regular and larger ferry “Ste. Claire” as ways to get residents back and forth to the island, which is also known as Boblo Island.

“It’s the little ferry. It’s now painted and spruced up,” said Amico Properties vice president of development Cindy Prince.

The ferry issue has stemmed from outages to the main ferry, some outages lasting several days. An outage occurred in late 2023 that lasted approximately two weeks.

The “Columbia” is now certified and can be utilized.

“It’s a long process, for sure,” she said of certification. “Transport Canada is very diligent.”

Prince confirmed the “Columbia” is there to serve as the back-up ferry. Certification takes place in steps, she indicated.

“Everyone thinks it’s like an elevator certificate where they issue one of them,” she said.

Prince said the ferry had to undergo a number of different certifications.

Everything from the radio to the electrical aspects of the vessel and more had to pass inspection.

“There are a number of inspections and a number of certificates,” said Prince.

Getting the back-up ferry back into service was something that has taken several months to complete.

“We’re there to serve the residents of Boblo as best we can,” said Prince.

The fact they can have an additional level of comfort is something they are pleased with.

“When we can do that, we’re very happy to do so,” said Prince.

Island residents pay $5,000 per year for use of the ferry.

Prince added she hopes it helps with the further development of the south end of the island.

“It’s nice to see some positive media attention regarding Boblo when you’re trying to sell lots,” she said. “Positive news is helpful in that regard.”

Back-up Boblo ferry certified

By Ron Giofu