Last year Isle Royale Seaplanes began work to settle into Hubbell. The move helped with a safer landing area than along the Portage Canal and offered more space for a growing business. But the decision to move to Hubbell was met with some challenges, such as residents concerned engine noise could disturb nearby wildlife.
Occasionally we’ll have an early test flight or make up flight due to weather. But for the most part it’s an 8am to 6 pm operation. And that’s not a disturbance to people. As it’s not too early, and we’re not flying at night. But that’s our normal routine that was established long ago. And it worked best for us operationally and for our neighbors. – Johnathan Rector, director of operations, isle royale seaplanes
Director of Operations Johnathan Rector says since moving past initial concerns, the seaplane operation has been welcomed in the community.
So even last year with all of that we had loads of people call us and stop by and say, look. We want you here. We’re glad you’re here. And that has continued much more since everyone has seen us operate for a year and half. And we also do a lot in the community. In terms of the number of people we bring in. But also we support all of the community organizations. I mean every single charity organization that comes to us we try to work with them. – Johnathan Rector, director of operations, isle royale seaplanes
The isle royale seaplanes uses dhc-2 aircraft to taxi visitors to and from isle royale national park. The flights enjoy a quick trip to the island than the traditional ferry route, and scenic sights along the way. Rector adds this season has been very busy, and isle royale seaplane looks forward to continuing to provide great air travel to a destination many hope to take.
Our parking lot is nearly full. I think we might have four open spots right now. This year was great. Because the facility was completely built, and we were ready to move in, and get the season started. Compared to last year, when we were a construction site for the first six weeks or so. – Johnathan Rector, director of operations, isle royale seaplanes
The seaplane company makes it easy for individuals planning trips to Isle Royale. A Before You Go webpage on Isle Royale Seaplanes’ website share information for packing, answers to frequently asked questions and an idea of what locations people can plan on being dropped off at on the island.
In the fall Isle Royale Seaplanes offers Fall Color Tours. The 30 minute flights give people a bird’s eye view of the change of season. Traveling along the coast to Eagle Harbor the tour also flies over Mohawk, Lake Linden, and Dollar Bay. On the company’s website it notes fall tours begin in September, with select dates unavailable.
Learn more about Isle Royale Seaplanes here.
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