March 21, 2007
Wednesday AM

(SitNews) - Start-up of the Inter-Island Ferry Authority's seasonal northern route has been moved ahead this year to accommodate Petersburg's legendary Little Norway Festival, according to IFA general manager Tom Briggs. The M/V Stikine will provide round-trip service between Coffman Cove, Wrangell and Petersburg's South Mitkof terminal on May 17, 18, 19 and 20, coinciding with the dates of the Petersburg celebration.

This will be the 49th year of the festival, which celebrates the signing of Norway's Constitution, the coming of spring and beginning of the fishing season. There is a parade, street dances, athletic events, rowdy Vikings, art, theatre, folk costumes, and lots of fine food.

The following week, the IFA will add Thursday, May 24 to its regular weekly Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday northern route schedule, for the convenience of those participating in the annual Prince of Wales International Marathon, which takes place Saturday, May 26. The 26 mile long course crosses Prince of Wales Island from Hollis to Craig. It is recognized as the premier running event in Southeast Alaska, attracting competitors from throughout the U.S. and internationally.

IFA service between Coffman Cove, Wrangell and Petersburg will continue four days per week through September 17.

The M/V Stikine is presently providing round-trip daily service between Hollis and Ketchikan. It will be replaced on this route by the M/V Prince of Wales, which is undergoing a $1.4 million systems upgrade at Dakota Creek Industries shipyard in Anacortes, Washington. The vessel is receiving a more powerful bow thruster, a third generator, heating system improvements, wing bridge enclosures, expanded closed circuit TV, controllable pitch upgrade, and replacement galley equipment. IFA operations manager Lonnie Adams reports that the work is proceeding as planned, with the Prince of Wales scheduled to head north from Anacortes on May 1.

The M/VPrince of Wales will provide twice daily Ketchikan - Hollis round-trip passenger and vehicle service between May 25 and September 3.

Source of News:

Inter-Island Ferry Authority
http://www.interislandferry.com/

 

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