MACKINAC COUNTY — Those who take annual pilgrimages to Mackinac Island will see a new ship in the straits this summer.

The Isle Royale Queen III, which previously sailed from Marquette, will join the Arnold Mackinac Island Ferry fleet.

The owner of the Queen III and the general manager of Arnold Transit are saying the 81–foot steel–hulled ship will offer more sophisticated options to current services. With heated cabins, an interior bar and other amenities, the Queen III will offer better flexibility for those who want to charter private events.

The Isle Royale Queen III was commissioned in the 1950s to ferry passengers from Copper Harbor to Isle Royale.

It’s been operated as a passenger ship for Marquette harbor cruises for the past three years.