Goodtime going out of business

SANDUSKY — A popular ferryboat docked at Jackson Street Pier, offering seafaring voyages to nearby islands and around Lake Erie, won't serve riders anymore. "It is with a heavy heart that I announce the Goodtime I will not return to Sandusky this summer," according to a statement made by boat owner and operator Joe Lamb. Lamb revealed his situation on Saturday afternoon, providing some insight into the backstory and reasoning for such a drastic decision. "We took the vessel for her five-year dry dock inspection, but the repair costs (were) far beyond my reach," Lamb said. "Between these costs and the hardships we have faced over the past few years, I am left with no choice," he continued. "Over the past five months, I have exhausted every option possible, and it has mentally, physically and emotionally exhausted me." The pandemic effectively crippled Goodtime operations. In 2020, federal and state guidelines pushed back the Goodtime's opening from May to July. Furthermore, those restrictions — which included limits on passenger capacity — forced Lamb to either greatly scale back or altogether eliminate various trips offered by the Goodtime, also known as Lake Erie Island Cruises. Among the more popular fares: "Sunset Bay Cruises" around Sandusky Bay; the "Daytime Island Hopping Cruise," taking people to Kelleys Island and Put-in-Bay; and the "Friday Night Party Cruise," often referred to as the "booze cruise." In February 2020, Lamb and Sandusky officials entered into a five-year lease, running through Nov. 15, 2024, allowing the Goodtime to dock at Jackson Street Pier. This deal now appears null and void. Additionally, city commissioners provided grant money to Lamb's business and made certain improvements to Jackson Street Pier this past year, which specifically accommodates the Goodtime. It's not known when, or even if, Lamb can repay the city what he owes. "We have worked closely with the Goodtime and know the Lambs did all they could to continue to serve the community," city manager Eric Wobser said. "We will continue to work with them to sort out any issues related to their lease with the city but right now are focused on thanking them for their many years of operations and the memories they helped create for so many from our area." Sandusky ex officio mayor Dick Brady also offered up a response. "It is a difficult loss for our community. Joe Lamb, his family and staff have put their heart and soul into this operation. No one worked harder to make this successful. Some elements were out of their control." So could another ferryboat come to Jackson Street Pier and offer some of the Goodtime's services? "We must believe that, when one door closes, another door opens," Brady said. "Our challenge will be in finding another quality partner for this location."