Media Contact: (360) 664-1116 or media@utc.wa.gov
Docket number: TS-191009
OLYMPIA, Wash. – State regulators allowed Lake Chelan Boat Company, Inc. to increase fares effective Jan. 24, 2020.
The company, which operates the Lady of the Lake ferry on Lake Chelan, is implementing a general rate increase of $170,520 (11%) for passenger fares, and $16,398 (14.8%) for freight fares. Passengers will see an increase of $2.50 to $4 per one-way trip, depending on the destination and season.
The rate increases, requested to address increased operating costs, were filed with the Washington Utilities and Transportation Commission on Dec. 6, 2019. The proposal was revised on Jan. 17 with recommendations from UTC staff including a $23,888 reduction to the proposed rate increase for passenger fares.
After a public hearing and comment period, the increases became effective by operation of law when the three-member commission chose to take no action which allows the rates to go into effect.
Other changes in the updated tariff included streamlined baggage handling procedures and rules, activating an online ticketing and reservation system, and simplifying the multiple fare options.
The company last updated its rates in 2013.
BACKGROUND
Lake Chelan Boat Company, Inc. operates a commercial passenger ferry service from Chelan to Stehekin with intermediate stops along the way. The company provides basic, year-round passenger transportation where residents have limited transportation alternatives. They serve approximately 55,000 passengers annually on Lake Chelan.
The company was first issued an operating permit from the UTC in 1929 and changed ownership in February 2019.
The commission regulates the rates and service territories of private commercial ferry companies in Washington. The UTC does not regulate charter or excursion-boat services. Please visit www.utc.wa.gov for more information.
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