Sticker Shock as Portland’s Casco Bay Lines Has Big Hike in Ticket Prices

It's the first increase in ticket prices in 15 years, and it's a doozy.

Casco Bay Lines knew they had to do something, and since it's been 15 years since their last price hike, it was time. According to the Portland Press Herald, The Casco Bay Island Transit District voted 10-1 to approve an 82% increase in round-trip ticket prices.

Peaks Island visitors will have the biggest shock!

The new fares still need to get the okay from the Public Utilities Commission. If approved, starting June, 1 there will be a flat $14 rate for all islands served by the Casco Bay Lines (Peaks Island, Little Diamond Island, Great Diamond Island, Long Island, Chebeague Island, and Cliff Island). That moves the ticket price to Peaks Island, the most-visited island from $7.70 (peak summer season) to $14. The old price meant that the most-visited island was the cheapest to get to.

READ MORE: Things to Do While Island Hopping Casco Bay Islands in Portland, Maine

Sure, that's steep, but everyone agrees it's long overdue. There are some lower prices. Half-price tickets for kids are now under 18 instead of under 14. Seniors and people with disabilities who already qualify for half-price tickets will still get lower fares.

Casco Bay Lines will see the bulk of new money from Peak Island trips.

According to the Press Herald, Casco Bay Lines had over one million riders in 2022 between the regular ferry service and tours. But almost 3/4 of those riders were heading to and from Peaks Island. There weren't 2023 numbers, but they have to be pretty similar. They hope to increase their revenue by at least half a million dollars.

Casco Bay Lines says that instead of raising prices in 15 years by another 82 percent, they will be evaluating ticket prices every couple of years. They know they need to be more on top of pricing.