Casco Bay Ferry Lines says it will increase fares in June.
The cost of a single round-trip ticket will rise from $14 to $16 during the peak summer season, which runs from mid-April through mid-October.
General Manager Ben Dinsmore said the increase had originally been proposed at $3.
“After consideration, the finance committee adjusted that to a $2 rate increase with the possibility of an additional dollar increase in June of 2027, so it’s more of a gradual rollout,” Dinsmore said.
The price of an annual pass would increase only slightly from $432 to $435
Dinsmore said some people raised concerns about the increase coming just two years after the last fare hike, but he said rate hikes are needed to offset growing expenses.
“We’re trying to balance the financial sustainability of Casco Bay lines while also making sure that we keep our rates affordable for year-round island residents, especially those who are traveling frequently and dependent on the service,” Dinsmore said.
Dinsmore said he expects the rate increase to go into effect on June 19.This story appears through a media partnership with Maine Public.
