Ferry service navigating stormy waters
ELIZABETH CITY, N.C. — The launch of the Inner and Outer Banks ferry service by Harbor Towns Inc. sparked excitement across the towns of the Inner Banks in May. However, just a few months later, the service is grappling with unexpected challenges that have forced significant operational changes.
According to Mel Martine, the director of events on the Albemarle Queen, the initial vision included regular ferry trips connecting towns like Columbia, Edenton, Elizabeth City, Hertford, and Plymouth.
“We thought we would be doing a trip out of two towns probably twice a week, so four trips total. That’s kind of what we had hoped for,” she explained, reflecting on their ambitious plans.
However, as the summer progressed, mechanical issues arose with their prototype hydrofoil catamarans. The company faced a slew of challenges, including engine malfunctions and navigation problems, leading to a need for adjustments in their operational strategy.
“We’ve kind of had to readjust after having engine issues, mechanical issues, navigational issues with the boats. They’ve been heavily certified by the Coast Guard, so they’re extremely safe, but we’ve been having some mechanical issues that have made us kind of shift and redirect what we’re doing,” Martine stated.
The decision to temporarily halt back-and-forth routes between towns was a tough one. “About two months ago, we were having to cancel too many trips and disappointing too many of our customers, and that relationship with our customers is our number one priority,” Martine added.
In its stead, the hydrofoil catamarans are now being used for town events, in-and-out trips, and private rentals, focusing on maintaining community connections, despite the service reduction.
Though locals were disappointed by the changes, they expressed understanding of the company’s growing pains. “This is being tried as a new endeavor, so hiccups are to be expected. But we’re still excited for it and fingers crossed that things get back on track soon,” stated Ashley Hodges, Mayor of Hertford.
Despite the setbacks, the introduction of the Albemarle Queen, the first paddle wheeler on the Pasquotank River in a century, has been a welcome addition for local residents. “We’ve been doing paddle wheel dinner cruises once or more a month, and they’ve been a big hit,” mentioned Tom Harrison, travel and tourism director for Washington County.
As the ferry service continues to navigate its debut season, there is hope for improvement. “The feedback that we get, good and bad, is constructive, and that’s how we grow, and we look forward to reevaluating and coming back even stronger next year,” Martine shared.
The ferry service’s season is set to run through the end of November, with the community eagerly hoping for smoother operations in the future.